How it Works

• The stem of the valve is pointed. As the valve is adjusted, the point of the stem increases or decreases the opening of the space that is provided for the flow of liquid or gas. As the valve handle is turned right, the flow is reduced, and as the handle is turned left, the valve is opened more and the flow is increased. The needle valve is designed for very fine adjustments for flow regulation.

Parts of the Needle Valve

• The Needle VALVES is a fairly simple valve and is made up of six main parts. The handwheel is what is used to make the adjustments to the valve and control flow. The stem is the long body of the valve and the stem point is where the valve gets its name. The packaging around the stem helps to stabilize the stem. The bonnet and the body are the outer casings of the valve.

Uses

• Needle valves are commonly used in construction for outdoor water spigots. However, they are also used in many commercial applications where the flow of material must be closely regulated. For example natural gas pipes, oil lines and fuel lines frequently have needle valves as part of shut-off equipment.

Construction

• Needle valves can be made of a variety of materials to meet the needs of the application. A common material used in water or plumbing applications is copper. However, plastic, aluminum, brass and stainless steel are also common materials that are used in the construction of needle valves.

Manual or Automated

• When considering the uses of needle valves, the manual operation is most commonly thought of. Manual operation is when the handwheel is turned to adjust the rate of flow. Needle valves can also be made without a handwheel and be designed to connect to a system that will adjust the valve based on a programmed schedule. The automation of the needle valve provides even greater flow control.