Pumps, Valves & Flow Control · Application
Worm gear operators for quarter-turn valves
Self-locking worm gear sets turn butterfly and ball valves and hold them in position against the flow.
- What was needed
- Worm & Worm Wheel
- Requirements
- High torque for the quarter turn
- Valve holds its position against flow
- Compact gearbox
- Industry
- Pumps, Valves & Flow Control
- Result
- Valves that turn easily and stay where they are set.
Problem
Large butterfly, ball and plug valves need high torque to open and close, and the flow pushes on the valve disc, trying to move it from a partly open position.
Solution
A worm and worm wheel reduces handwheel or motor speed and multiplies torque for the quarter turn. With a low lead angle the worm gear is self-locking, so the valve stays where it is set without a brake.
Benefits
Why it works
High torque from a small input
Large reduction in a compact gearbox.
Holds position
Self-locking against flow forces.
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