Oil refineries utilize a variety of valves to control the flow of fluids, isolate equipment, and regulate process conditions. These valves play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of different units within the refinery. Here are some commonly used valves in oil refineries:

Gate Valves:

Purpose: Used for on/off isolation and control of fluid flow.

Applications: Isolation of equipment, pipelines, and control of fluid flow in various processes.

Ball Valves:

Purpose: Offers quick shut-off and precise control of fluid flow.

Applications: Used in pipelines, tanks, and various processes for efficient control.

Check Valves:

Purpose: Prevents backflow of fluids.

Applications: Ensures one-way flow in pipelines and prevents reverse flow in critical systems.

Butterfly Valves:

Purpose: Regulates fluid flow and isolates sections.

Applications: Control of flow in pipelines, tanks, and cooling water systems.

Globe Valves:

Purpose: Controls flow and provides precise regulation.

Applications: Throttling applications, control of fluid flow in various processes.

Plug Valves:

Purpose: Used for on/off control and throttling.

Applications: Suitable for applications with low viscosity fluids, isolation, and control.

Control Valves:

Purpose: Regulates fluid flow based on process conditions.

Applications: Used in various processes where precise control of flow, pressure, or temperature is required.

Safety Relief Valves:

Purpose: Protects equipment from overpressure by releasing excess pressure.

Applications: Critical in maintaining the safety of pressure vessels and systems.

Pressure Reducing Valves:

Purpose: Maintains constant downstream pressure by reducing incoming pressure.

Applications: Ensures stability in different processes and equipment.

Purpose: Combines gate, globe, and check valve functions in a single body.

Applications: Used where space and weight considerations are crucial, such as in offshore platforms.

Diaphragm Valves:

Purpose: Provides precise control and isolation.

Applications: Suitable for applications with corrosive or abrasive fluids.

Emergency Shutdown Valves (ESDVs):

Purpose: Rapidly shuts down the flow during emergencies to prevent accidents.

Applications: Critical in ensuring safety in case of equipment failures or process upsets.

Piston Valves:

Purpose: Provides tight sealing and precise control.

Applications: Used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

Rotary Control Valves:

Purpose: Regulates flow by rotating a plug or ball.

Applications: Precise control in various refinery processes.

Choke Valves:

Purpose: Controls flow by creating a restriction.

Applications: Used in wellhead and manifold applications for controlling fluid flow.

The selection of valves in an oil refinery depends on factors such as the specific process requirements, fluid characteristics, pressure, and temperature conditions. These valves work together to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the refining processes.