Image Source: Pan Demin, Shutterstock
If you are unfamiliar with float valves, a simple example may be the valve regulating the water in your toilet tank. Though it is a simple example, the concept is the same, including the rugged float valves used in drilling processes. They are essential to drilling operations because they help regulate the unwanted flow of water up the drill string and prevent gas and oil from being dispersed into the water.
Drillmax® is a leading manufacturer of float valves, mud gate valves, and shear relief valves used in oil and gas drilling industries. Read on to learn more about float valves and their most common functions and applications.
A float valve opens and closes based on the amount of liquid allowed in the enclosure, such as a tank or drill pipe. Sometimes called non-return valves, they are responsible for creating barriers to prevent unwanted water from flowing up the drill string. Critical to drilling operations, they work to prevent gas and oil from flowing into the surrounding water, causing damaging results to the environment and stopping water from making its way into the drill pipe and up the string. If a crew is making or breaking connections on the rig, they will lock down the flow of liquids until the adjustments are completed.
In addition to float valves used in toilet tanks and livestock waterers, they are used in many industrial applications and can be used in conjunction with other valves. As we said, a float valve opens and closes according to the water level or other fluid. Again, think of the simple example of the toilet tank. When the toilet is flushed, the tank empties. The float valve allows water to enter the tank until it reaches a predetermined level. Then it shuts the water off so is no overfilling.
The same concept holds true for underwater drilling applications. The float valve shuts off the flow of water up the drill string while preventing the release of natural gas and petroleum into the water.
In addition to float valves being used in drilling applications, they are popular in many other industries since they require no electrical components, which increases their flexibility and makes them easy to maintain. Some additional applications include:
Industrial use requires heavy-duty float valves that can hold up to frequent or daily use. Contact our team of experts to find the best valves for your application. Every application is unique, so choose the valves explicitly designed for your drilling needs.
Drillmax® has a complete line of pipe float valves that can be used in your drill pipe, drill rod, or anywhere on the drill string. They are used for drilling oil and gas products, water drilling, and boring under the road or water crossing to install utilities. Each application is unique, so speak with one of our experts to get the best recommendation for the right float valve for you.
If you are looking for float valves that can withstand the harsh conditions involved with drilling, Drillmax® has the solution. Still, have questions? Contact us today to get a free quote.
Image Source: Pan Demin, Shutterstock
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