luglugalugaaen |

seabsea

sea nav gua

Language: en spa ru fra it
sea

form

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE

We will contact you within 24 hours.

What Is The Difference Between Balancing Valve And Control Valve

Time: 9-July 2025 | Source: I-FLOW| Share

What Is a Balancing Valve

A balancing valve is used to ensure equal and consistent flow distribution across various branches in a piping network. It does not react to external signals but rather maintains a pre-set flow rate under fluctuating system pressures. Balancing valves are primarily used during commissioning to fine-tune hydronic systems.

There are two primary types:

  • Manual Balancing Valves (Static): Require manual adjustment to set flow based on system design.
  • Automatic Balancing Valves (Dynamic): Use pressure-regulating mechanisms to maintain a constant flow rate regardless of system pressure changes.
Balancing valves are critical in multi-zone systems to prevent under- or over-supply to individual circuits, avoiding discomfort or inefficiency.

What Is a Control Valve

A control valve, as the name suggests, modulates the flow of fluid in response to external inputs, typically from a building automation system (BAS), room thermostat, or temperature sensor. It actively regulates the amount of hot or chilled water delivered to a terminal unit (e.g., AHU, FCU) based on load demand.

Control valves come in several types:

  • Two-way Control Valve: Opens or closes flow based on load.
  • Three-way Control Valve: Diverts or mixes water flow.
  • Modulating Control Valve: Adjusts flow gradually to meet variable conditions.
  • Pressure Independent Control Valve (PICV): Combines dynamic balancing with flow control for maximum efficiency.
These valves provide real-time response to changing environmental or occupancy conditions, making them ideal for comfort and energy savings.

Key Differences Between Balancing and Control Valves

Feature Balancing ValveControl Valve
Primary FunctionMaintain set flow to balance systemAdjust flow to maintain temperature/pressure
Control TypeManual or self-regulatingElectrically or pneumatically actuated
Response to Input SignalNoYes
Flow AdjustmentFixed or passive auto-adjustVariable/modulating based on demand
Typical LocationCircuit branches or return linesAt terminal units (coils, AHUs, fan coils)
Best UseSystem balancing and commissioningReal-time zone or system regulation

Why You Need Both – Or Just One

In traditional hydronic systems, balancing valves and control valves were installed together: balancing valves to set flow, and control valves to regulate temperature. However, modern systems increasingly use Pressure Independent Control Valves (PICVs), which combine both functions into one, simplifying design and improving performance.

Use balancing valves when:

  • Commissioning large or complex multi-branch systems
  • Dealing with inconsistent or unregulated flow distribution

Use control valves when:

  • You require zone-specific control
  • System demand fluctuates with occupancy or time
Back To The List btn

Related News

What Makes Triple Eccentric Butterfly Valves So Versatile
6-February 2026

What Makes Triple Eccentric Butterfly Valves So Versatile

Triple eccentric butterfly valves are chosen when systems demand zero leakage, durability, and stable performance under challenging conditions. Their advanced sealing structure allows them to outperform conventional butterfly valves in severe-service applications.

View Details
What Makes Three Way Valve Different
6-February 2026

What Makes Three Way Valve Different

Unlike standard on-off valves, a three way valve controls flow between three pipeline connections instead of two. This unique structure allows it to redirect flow or blend fluids without requiring additional piping components.

View Details
Why Fire Sprinkler Systems Matter
6-February 2026

Why Fire Sprinkler Systems Matter

Fire sprinkler systems play a vital role in modern fire safety, offering automatic and reliable protection when a fire breaks out. Unlike manual firefighting methods, sprinklers react immediately to rising temperatures, helping control fires before they escalate into major disasters.

View Details
How To Properly Select and Operate Pressure Relief Valves for System Protection
6-February 2026

How To Properly Select and Operate Pressure Relief Valves for System Protection

Pressure relief valves are essential safety devices designed to prevent excessive pressure buildup in industrial systems. Proper selection and correct operation are key factors in maintaining regulatory compliance, equipment integrity, and operational safety.

View Details
Why Pinch Valves Are Ideal for Slurry and Abrasive
6-February 2026

Why Pinch Valves Are Ideal for Slurry and Abrasive

Pinch valves are specifically engineered to handle fluids that are difficult for traditional valves, such as slurries, powders, and fluids containing solid particles. The flexible sleeve design eliminates internal obstructions that can trap debris.

View Details
How Three Port Plug Valves Control and Distribute Fluid Flow
6-February 2026

How Three Port Plug Valves Control and Distribute Fluid Flow

3-way plug valves allow operators to redirect or combine flow within a single valve body. By rotating the plug, the valve can switch flow direction, isolate lines, or mix fluids depending on system design.

View Details