Are you finding it challenging to select the right valves for dairy processing? Selecting the best valve types ensures smooth operations and keeps systems performing at their best.
With years of experience in the valve industry, I understand how crucial valve performance is in industrial applications. That’s why understanding the specific needs of the dairy sector is key to choosing the right products.
Here’s a sneak peek at 2 types of valves used in the dairy industry:
- Butterfly Valves
- Ball Valves
In this guide, we’ll explore the specific roles each valve plays in dairy processing. You’ll discover which options are best suited for maintaining efficiency, hygiene, and longevity in these specialized environments.
Keep reading to learn more!
1. Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are widely used in the dairy industry due to their simple construction and ease of operation. The truth is that they consist of a rotating disc that controls the flow of liquids by turning either parallel or perpendicular to the flow direction. Here are the benefits of using Butterfly Valves in the dairy industry:
- Space-saving design: Butterfly valves are compact, making them ideal for installations where space is limited. This allows for efficient use in cramped environments without sacrificing functionality.
- Quick operation: The quarter-turn mechanism allows for rapid opening and closing. This feature helps in efficient control of liquid flow during operations.
- Cost-effective: With fewer moving parts, butterfly valves are generally more affordable to maintain. They offer a lower cost of ownership compared to more complex valve types.

2. Ball Valves
Ball valves are commonly found in dairy operations where tight shutoff capabilities are needed. Similarly, these valves use a rotating ball with a hole in the center that aligns with the pipe to allow or stop the flow of liquid. Here are the key benefits of using Ball Valves in the dairy industry:
- Tight sealing: Ball valves provide a highly effective seal, which prevents leakage even in high-pressure systems. This feature makes them particularly useful in critical dairy processing tasks.
- Durability: Ball valves are built to withstand heavy use and extreme conditions, contributing to their long service life. Their construction minimizes the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
- Versatility: Suitable for both low- and high-pressure applications, ball valves are adaptable to various dairy processes. Their design offers flexibility in different operational settings.
3. Diaphragm Valves
Diaphragm valves use a flexible diaphragm that moves to control liquid flow, making them highly suitable for hygienic applications in dairy production. In like manner, the diaphragm separates the flow from the moving parts, reducing the risk of contamination. Below are the main benefits of using Diaphragm Valves in the dairy industry:
- Hygienic operation: The sealed design reduces the risk of contamination by keeping the flow separate from valve components. This makes them ideal for maintaining cleanliness in dairy processing.
- Precise flow control: Diaphragm valves offer fine control over flow rates, essential for sensitive processes. This accuracy enhances consistent product quality in critical operations.
- Low maintenance: With fewer internal components, diaphragm valves are easy to clean and maintain. This feature reduces downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.
Here’s a table that outlines the benefits of the low maintenance feature of diaphragm valves, emphasizing how their design contributes to operational efficiency and reduced upkeep costs:
Feature | Description | Benefit |
Reduced Downtime | Easier maintenance processes mean less time spent on repairs and adjustments. | Minimizes operational interruptions, keeping systems running efficiently. |
Simplified Cleaning | The design of diaphragm valves facilitates straightforward cleaning procedures. | Ensures the valve remains free from blockages and contaminants, crucial for industries like food processing and pharmaceuticals. |
Cost Efficiency | Lower maintenance requirements translate to reduced long-term costs for upkeep and labor. | Decreases the overall expenditure on valve maintenance over its lifespan. |
Reliability | Fewer components and simpler mechanics reduce the likelihood of mechanical failure. | Enhances the reliability of the valve, contributing to stable system performance. |
4. Check Valves
Check valves are essential in preventing backflow, helping maintain product integrity in dairy processing. For instance, they automatically allow liquid to flow in one direction and close to stop the reverse flow, safeguarding against contamination. But that’s not all. Here are the advantages of using Check Valves in the dairy industry:
- Prevents contamination: By blocking reverse flow, check valves help keep dairy systems clean. This protection preserves product quality and prevents waste.
- Automatic operation: The simple, automatic action of check valves reduces the need for manual intervention. This feature lowers the overall operational complexity of the system.
- Reliable design: Check valves are built for long-term operation and continuous use. Their straightforward design offers dependable performance with minimal upkeep.

5. Pressure Relief Valves
Pressure relief valves are vital for protecting equipment in dairy processing by releasing excess pressure. Matter of fact, they automatically open when system pressure exceeds safe limits, preventing damage to pipes and machinery. Below are the notable benefits of using Pressure Relief Valves in the dairy industry:
- Protects equipment: These valves prevent overpressure conditions that can damage equipment. By releasing pressure, they safeguard machinery and reduce repair costs.
- Enhances safety: Pressure relief valves prevent dangerous pressure buildup, reducing the risk of accidents. This function is key in maintaining a safe working environment.
- Automatic response: The automatic release of excess pressure guarantees quick and effective pressure regulation. This minimizes the need for constant monitoring.

6. Sanitary Valves
Sanitary valves are designed to meet the stringent hygiene requirements of the dairy industry. Why does this work? Their smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces and corrosion-resistant materials help prevent contamination. These valves are used in processes where maintaining cleanliness is a top priority. Here are the significant benefits of using Sanitary Valves in the dairy industry:
- Hygienic design: Sanitary valves have a design that minimizes contamination risks. At NTVAL, this helps maintain product integrity by reducing areas where bacteria can grow.
- Corrosion-resistant: Built from materials like stainless steel, these valves are highly resistant to corrosion. This resistance extends the valve’s lifespan in dairy processing environments.
- Easy to clean: Sanitary valves are designed for quick and thorough cleaning. This feature reduces downtime between processing cycles and supports hygiene standards.

7. Gate Valves
Gate valves are primarily used for isolating sections of dairy processing systems. For instance, they use a gate that moves up and down to control the flow, offering a full open or closed position. As if that’s not enough, gate valves are ideal for applications requiring unrestricted flow when fully open. Below are the practical benefits of using Gate Valves in the dairy industry:
- Full flow capacity: When open, gate valves provide minimal flow resistance. This allows liquids to pass through without significant obstruction, improving process efficiency.
- Durable design: Gate valves are built to handle high or low temperatures. By law, Grade A milk must be kept at 45°F or below, as bacteria grow minimally at this temperature, according to HGIC. The durability of gate valves makes them well-suited for these tightly controlled applications with minimal maintenance.
- Minimal leakage: Gate valves offer tight closure when fully shut, reducing leakage risks. This makes sure that the system operates without unnecessary product loss.

8. Needle Valves
Needle valves are used for fine control of liquid flow in dairy processes. Their design includes a narrow, tapered needle that fits into a matching seat, allowing precise flow adjustments. So what’s my point? Needle valves are ideal for processes that require slow, controlled flow rates. Here are the essential benefits of using Needle Valves in the dairy industry:
- Precise control: The needle mechanism allows for highly accurate flow regulation. This makes it suitable for delicate operations where small adjustments are needed.
- Leak-tight performance: Needle valves provide an effective seal to prevent leaks. This feature helps maintain system efficiency by minimizing waste.
- Ideal for low flow: These valves excel in applications requiring slow, controlled liquid movement. This makes them particularly useful in metering or mixing processes.

9. Plug Valves
Plug valves control flow using a rotating cylindrical or conical plug. These valves are simple, reliable, and commonly used in dairy operations that require frequent opening and closing of flow. Sound good? Their straightforward design contributes to their ease of use and durability. Below are the standout benefits of using Plug Valves in the dairy industry:
- Efficient flow control: Plug valves offer quick and simple on-off flow control. This makes them a good choice for processes that require frequent adjustments.
- Durable: With fewer components than other valve types, plug valves are less prone to wear and tear. This enhances their reliability over extended periods of operation.
- Low leakage risk: Plug valves are effective at preventing leaks, maintaining system integrity. This establishes consistent product quality and reduces potential losses.

10. Globe Valves
allows for smooth throttling, making them ideal for systems requiring regular flow adjustments. It turns out, globe valves are often used when both flow control and shutoff are needed. Their versatility makes them a reliable choice for various dairy operations. Here are the valuable benefits of using Globe Valves in the dairy industry:
- Effective flow regulation: Globe valves provide excellent control over flow rates. NTVAL recommends that this capability is useful for maintaining consistent operations in dairy processes.
- Reliable shutoff: These valves can stop flow entirely when necessary, offering flexibility. This dual functionality makes them versatile for different operational needs.
- Adaptable: Globe valves can be used in various applications, providing a balance of flow control and isolation. Their design suits a range of dairy processing tasks.

Conclusion
Choosing the right valves is essential to maintaining efficiency and hygiene in dairy processing. The 10 types of valves discussed here each play a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly. By selecting high-quality valves, you ensure consistent product quality and reliable system performance.
This guide has highlighted the importance of choosing the appropriate valve for each specific application within the dairy industry. If you’re looking for reliable, high-performing valves, NTVAL has the expertise and product range to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your operations with top-quality valve solutions.
Dive Deeper Into Our Resources
For some insightful reads, we’ve curated a list of recommended articles just for you:
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re available around the clock to assist you.