Common types of valves include ball valves, gate valves, globe valves, butterfly valves, check valves, and plug valves.

Valves are classified as isolation valves, regulation valves, safety valves, and control valves based on their primary functions.

Factors such as pressure rating, temperature range, fluid type, flow rate, material compatibility, and environmental conditions must be considered during valve selection.

Challenges include corrosion, erosion, high pressures, extreme temperatures, abrasive fluids, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Valves undergo rigorous testing procedures such as hydrostatic testing, pressure testing, and performance testing to ensure compliance with industry standards such as API, ANSI, and ASME.

Regular inspection, lubrication, cleaning, and servicing are essential for maintaining valve integrity and performance. Predictive maintenance techniques may also be employed to identify potential issues early.

Valves play a critical role in ensuring operational safety by providing emergency shut-off capabilities, pressure relief, and leak detection features to prevent accidents and protect personnel and equipment.

Valves help minimise the risk of leaks, spills, and emissions by providing tight shut-off and leak-proof sealing mechanisms, thereby reducing environmental impact and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Smart valves equipped with sensors, actuators, and communication capabilities offer enhanced monitoring, control, and diagnostics, enabling remote operation, predictive maintenance, and improved efficiency.

Specialised applications include subsea valves for offshore drilling, high-pressure valves for wellheads and pipelines, cryogenic valves for LNG processing, and fire-safe valves for safety-critical systems.

Valves play a crucial role in optimising process control, reducing downtime, minimising energy consumption, and maximising productivity, thereby improving overall operational efficiency and profitability.