Top 10 Reasons To Choose A Diaphragm Actuated Control Valve

By Mark Gimson, Singer Valve

Every water system typically consists of piping networks that distribute water from a source or storage reservoir to the end users. This frequently requires miles of piping mains along with pumps systems and controls that all have to be monitored and controlled somehow. Whether this control is to regulate pressure, level, or flow, this usually will require some form of a valve that will have to be controlled. Essentially you have four options: 

1. A manual valve: This is an inexpensive option that works if you rarely have to change the settings.  To ensure this is a good option for your application you need to determine how often you need to make adjustments, what time of day they have to be done, and how accessible the valve is. If it’s frequent, time and labor costs can quickly add up.
2. An electrically actuated valve:  You can add a motor to a simple butterfly valve, but there are several reasons why this may not be the best option:
   1. What if you need to control more than one variable?
   2. Do you have power at the valve location? Running a new power line can be costly.
   3. Electric motors are not inexpensive, especially if you are purchasing a more robust, waterproof version.
3. A pneumatically actuated valve: This is a great choice for a plant based valve where a good air supply exists, but not so easy if you need the valve to perform several functions.
4. A diaphragm actuated, hydraulic controlled valve: This is the most common pressure reducing valve in city water systems and for good reason.