How to Select the Right Butterfly Valve for Industrial Applications

Butterfly valves are widely used in industries such as oil & gas, water treatment, chemical, and power generation due to their compact design, cost-effectiveness, and quick operation. However, not all butterfly valves are the same. Selecting the right type of butterfly valve depends on pressure, temperature, sealing requirements, and application conditions.

This article explains the main types of butterfly valves—concentric, double eccentric, and triple eccentric—and provides guidance on choosing the best option for your project.

1. Concentric (Resilient-Seated) Butterfly Valve

Design Features

• The disc rotates around the centerline of the valve body.

• The seat is made of rubber or elastomeric materials.

• Low cost and lightweight.

Advantages

• Simple structure and easy to install.

• Ideal for low-pressure, low-temperature service.

• Provides bubble-tight shutoff with resilient seats.

Limitations

• Limited resistance to high pressure and high temperature.

• Not suitable for aggressive chemicals or fire-safe requirements.

Typical Applications

• Water distribution and treatment plants.

• HVAC systems.

• General low-pressure pipelines.

2. Double Eccentric (High-Performance) Butterfly Valve

Design Features

• Shaft offset in two directions to reduce seat friction.

• Available with soft or metal seats.

• Better sealing and longer lifespan compared to concentric type.

Advantages

• Handles higher pressure and temperature.

• Bi-directional sealing in many cases.

• Cost-effective compared to triple eccentric design.

Limitations

• Some seat friction remains during operation.

• Not as tight as triple eccentric valves for severe service.

Typical Applications

• Power generation and chemical industries.

• Oil, gas, and steam pipelines at medium pressure.

• Cooling water and process piping.

3. Triple Eccentric (Triple Offset) Butterfly Valve

Design Features

• Retains the first and second offsets.

• Adds a third offset: a conical sealing design that ensures zero friction during opening/closing.

• Typically metal-to-metal seated, suitable for fire-safe service.

Advantages

• Frictionless operation, long service life.

• Excellent for high-pressure and high-temperature environments.

• Bubble-tight sealing, even in severe conditions.

• Fire-safe and corrosion-resistant.

Limitations

• Higher cost compared to concentric and double eccentric valves.

• More complex manufacturing process.

Typical Applications

• Oil & gas transmission pipelines.

• Petrochemical and refinery plants.

• Offshore and marine systems.

• High-temperature steam service.

4. Key Selection Guide

5. Conclusion

Choosing the right butterfly valve is not only about price, but also about safety, durability, and performance.

• For low-pressure water systems, a concentric butterfly valve is cost-effective.

• For medium pressure and temperature pipelines, a double eccentric valve offers reliability and value.

• For critical oil & gas or high-temperature steam systems, a triple eccentric butterfly valve is the best choice.

By understanding the differences, engineers and procurement teams can make the best decision for their industrial applications.

FAQ: Butterfly Valve Selection

Q1: Why are eccentric butterfly valves better than concentric ones?
Because they reduce seat wear and friction, leading to longer service life.

Q2: Which butterfly valve is fire-safe?
Only triple eccentric (metal-to-metal seated) butterfly valves are considered fire-safe.

Q3: Can I use a concentric butterfly valve for steam service?
No, concentric valves are not suitable for high-temperature steam. A double or triple eccentric valve should be used instead.

Q4: What is the lifespan of a butterfly valve?
It depends on design and operating conditions:

• Concentric: 5–10 years (low service)

• Double eccentric: 10–15 years

• Triple eccentric: 15+ years in critical service