What Materials Are Used in Butterfly Valve Construction
2025-12-10
The performance, durability, and application suitability of a Butterfly Valve are fundamentally determined by the materials used in its construction. Selecting the right combination ensures longevity, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness for specific fluid control needs. At LYV, we engineer our valves with precision, choosing materials that meet the highest industry standards to deliver reliable performance in demanding environments.
A Butterfly Valve is typically constructed from three primary component groups:
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Body Material: This forms the main pressure-containing structure.
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Disc Material: The disc is the closure element that rotates to regulate flow.
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Seat Material: The seat provides a tight seal between the disc and the body.
Key Material Specifications for LYV Butterfly Valves
We meticulously select materials for each component. Below is a detailed breakdown of our standard and optional specifications.
Body & Disc Materials:
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Cast Iron: Economical and robust for general water services.
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Ductile Iron: Superior strength and impact resistance compared to cast iron.
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Carbon Steel (WCB): Excellent for higher pressure and temperature applications.
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Stainless Steel (CF8/316): Offers outstanding corrosion resistance for chemical, marine, and food processing industries.
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Alloy 20 & Duplex: For highly corrosive services like sulfuric acid or seawater.
Seal & Liner Materials:
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EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Excellent for hot/cold water, steam, and mild chemicals.
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NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber): Ideal for oils, fuels, and hydrocarbons.
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PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) / Teflon: Virtually inert, suitable for extremely aggressive chemicals and high-purity applications.
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Viton (FKM): Excellent resistance to high temperatures and a wide range of chemicals.
For a clear comparison, here are some standard LYV configurations:
| Valve Model Series | Standard Body Material | Standard Disc Material | Standard Seat Material | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LYV-W Series | Ductile Iron | Ductile Iron (Epoxy Coated) | EPDM | Water Treatment, HVAC |
| LYV-C Series | Stainless Steel 316 | Stainless Steel 316 | PTFE | Chemical Processing, Pharma |
| LYV-H Series | Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel 316 | Viton | Oil & Gas, High-Temp Services |
Butterfly Valve FAQ
Q: Can a butterfly valve be used for throttling flow?
A: Yes, certain butterfly valves are excellent for throttling. The LYV high-performance series with a precision-machined eccentric disc and PTFE seat provides fine control over flow rates, making them suitable for modulation duties in addition to on/off service.
Q: What is the main advantage of a lug-style butterfly valve over a wafer-style?
A: The primary advantage is the ability for dead-end service. A lug-style butterfly valve, like our LYV-L Series, has threaded inserts (lugs) on both sides, allowing it to be installed into a system using bolts on one flange without nuts on the other. This permits the downstream side to be disconnected for maintenance without shutting down the entire line.
Q: How do I choose the right seat material for my application?
A: The seat material must be compatible with the fluid's chemical properties, temperature, and pressure. For example, use NBR for oil-based fluids, EPDM for hot water, and PTFE for aggressive chemicals. Our LYV technical team can provide detailed chemical compatibility charts and recommendations to ensure optimal valve selection.
Choosing the correct construction materials is critical for your valve's lifespan and system safety. LYV combines advanced material science with robust engineering to provide solutions you can trust. For specific fluid service, temperature, and pressure requirements, our experts are ready to assist you in selecting the perfect butterfly valve.
Contact us today for a detailed consultation or to request our comprehensive material selection guide.
