A stormwater valve can be a simple device that limits the flow of water from an open area to a closed area. These devices can be categorized into different types based on their purpose. These types include backwater valves, Vortex valves, Duckbill check valves, and Pinch valves.
Vortex valves
Vortex stormwater valves help reduce runoff at new developments. In South Portland, Maine, for example, the valves are being used at an office park to control runoff. As urban areas grow and climate patterns change, stormwater flooding is becoming a serious problem. Fortunately, there is an affordable solution – vortex stormwater valves.
Vortex valves function by channeling water through a vortex chamber with a minimal pressure drop. This allows the valve to create a swirling flow pattern, which throttles the flow through it during high flow conditions. This design also creates back pressure upstream, which prevents smaller waste from getting stuck in the valve.
Duckbill check valves
The choice of the right check valve for stormwater applications is vital to ensuring the system works as intended. The characteristics of each valve need to be carefully evaluated. In particular, the materials used must be able to handle the fluid. Another important consideration is temperature range. High temperatures can damage check valve materials, so it is important to choose the stormwater valve right valve for the job. Duckbill check valves are made of fire-resistant elastomeric construction, which prevents rust.
Duckbill check valves are easy to install and incorporate into a variety of devices. Unlike other valves, they are simple to assemble. They don’t require complex assembly processes, nor do they require high hydraulic heads. A downside to duckbill valves is their relatively high maintenance costs.
Pinch valves
A good pinch valve will provide decades of trouble-free operation. Unlike a knife gate valve, a pinch valve is equipped with a fully contained screw mechanism to open and close. These valves have a 100 percent tight seal that prevents leakage. These valves are also better suited for control and isolation of a system.
A custom-made pinch valve is designed to provide flow control for hard-to-handle media. These valves can handle slurries, sludge, or dry solids. These valves typically feature a cast-metal housing and a flexible elastomer sleeve.
Backwater valves
Backwater valves, also called sewer check valves or sewer backflow prevention devices, are used to prevent sewage water from backing up into a home. They have a large flap that blocks the backflow and closes off the main sewer line when water levels rise. This prevents sewage from filling up your bathroom or basement, and prevents overflow during a flood.
Backwater valves can sit 15″, 30″ or 36″ above floor level and should be plumbed separately from the rest of your piping system. They should be installed downstream of the building trap or at the point of exit from the building.