What to Consider with Check Valves

The medium in which check valves are used is crucial. Check valves in liquid lines have different spring loads compared to those in compressed gas and suction gas lines. The designs can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and must be coordinated beforehand.

In compressed gas lines, check valves are generally determined by the mass flow rate and not by the pipe diameter. Typically, they are one to two sizes smaller.

If check valves in gas lines are oversized, it can lead to the valve slamming open and shut, potentially causing damage. This is particularly true during partial load operation of a refrigeration system, where the mass flow rate through the check valve decreases.