What is the difference between foot valve and non-return valve?

A simple difference between a check valve & non-return valve is: Check Valve: It allows flow in only one direction and automatically prevents backflow (reverse flow) when the fluid in the line reverses direction. Non-Return Valve: It allows a medium to flow in only one direction.

Can I use a check valve instead of a foot valve?

We recommend using only one check valve or foot valve in a pump system. A foot valve should be at the inlet to the suction line of turbine, centrifugal, and jet pumps. If an additional check valve is required, it should be placed after the pressure tank to allow the pump and discharge pipe to remain pressurized.

Why the foot valve is a non-return type valve?

A non-return valve allows a medium to flow in only one direction and is fitted to ensure that the medium flows through a pipe in the right direction, where pressure conditions may otherwise cause reversed flow.

Can centrifugal pump work without foot valve?

In residential systems, to ensure that the pump stays full of the liquid use a check valve (also called a foot valve) at the water source end of the suction line. Certain types of centrifugal pumps do not require a check valve as they can generate suction at the pump inlet to lift the fluid into the pump.

Is a foot valve necessary?

Foot valves are beneficial because they prevent damage to water pumps that can occur due to dry runs, as well as stopping wastage of energy. These valves are a necessary part of all water pumping systems. If there wasn’t a foot valve in place, the water would flow downward through the pipe, back to its original source.

Why are foot valves used?

The foot valve is a lift check valve which is usually installed together with suction strainers in the suction line. It prevents the suction line from running empty after the pump is stopped (also see Valve).

How does a non-return valve works?

Non-return valves work by allowing media to flow through them in only one direction. These valves have two openings in the body, one for media to enter and the other for media to leave. Non-return valves work automatically, which means that most are not controlled by a person or an external control.

Why foot valve is used in centrifugal pump?

Foot valves are used to prime up a centrifugal pump; they are known for their efficacy and affordability. Unlike other valves, a foot valve is created with a larger flow area than the actual pipe size to make sure that there is less head loss.

What type of pump requires a non return valve?

Non-Return Valves are essential to use with self-priming pumps, for suction lifting and for use with pressure switches. They hold the prime in the pump to avoid having to re-prime for every use and to avoid cavitation (dry running) in the pump.