Rubber check valves are a great solution for preventing backflow in wastewater and stormwater systems. These nonmechanical, passive devices are dependable and long-lasting, so they often seem like a no-brainer when it comes to avoiding costly repairs and maintenance.
Commonly used to protect water supply lines, these devices open automatically with forward flow and close with reverse flow to prevent backflow. They’re made from a variety of different materials, including metals and polymers.
Swing type check valves, also known as lift (piston and ball) check valves, are a popular choice. They feature a disc that swings away from the valve-seat to allow for forward flow, then returns to the seat when upstream flow is stopped in order to prevent backflow. They’re typically used in sanitary, industrial and wastewater applications.
Advantages of rubber check valves
Rubber is a durable, long-lasting material that’s also easy to maintain and work with. This can be a critical factor in choosing a check valve, especially for applications that are exposed to harsh chemicals or other corrosive substances.
Unlike metal check valves, which can rust and deteriorate quickly when they’re subjected to harsh fluids, rubber valves are designed to resist corrosion and abrasion. This makes them ideal for handling harsh slurries and sludge without breaking down or becoming damaged.
Duck bill check valves are an effective alternative to traditional metal swing or flap check valves. They’re a proven solution for sewer interceptors, mine tailing or scrubber systems, dredging, outfall lines, wet and dry walls, and sewage treatment plants.
They’re available in a variety of configurations, including flanged and insertable styles, and they are designed to eliminate backflow. They’re also ideal for protecting pipes against mud and abrasion.
Sealing in entrapped solids is another key feature of rubber check valves, which ensure that water cannot be released from the pipe. This prevents water from flowing backward into the system, reducing risk of flooding and a potential loss of valuable assets.
Durable and easy to install
Whether you’re looking for an in-line or in-tank check valve, Cla-Val has the right rubber-backed check valve for your needs. The company’s RF-DB series of rubber duckbill check valves, for example, are made from quality fabric-reinforced elastomer materials for maximum resistance to abrasion and wear caused by continuous operation with sludge or abrasive liquids.
Backflow prevention is a critical component of any wastewater or stormwater system. This is because a failure in a backflow preventer could result in contaminated wastewater entering a freshwater system.
But it can be difficult to find the right check valve for every application and system. Choosing the wrong one can lead to serious problems such as a valve that’s stuck in an open position, or a device that requires a lot of maintenance and manual intervention to keep working properly.
For these reasons, it’s important to partner with a manufacturer that can help you choose the right valve for your specific situation. That way, you’ll be confident in the integrity of your entire system.