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What Is The Real Difference Bwtween PICV and PIBCV

Time: 4-July 2025 | Source: I-FLOW| Share

If you’re in the middle of designing or upgrading your HVAC system and hear terms like PICV and PIBCV thrown around, you might be wondering: aren’t they basically the same thing? Not quite.
Sure, both are pressure independent valves, but they’ve got unique strengths, and knowing the difference can help you avoid a lot of headaches — and possibly save money in the long run.

First Off: What Is a PICV

Let’s start with the PICV — that stands for Pressure Independent Control Valve. Think of it as a 3-in-1 valve that:Regulates flow.Balances the system.Controls heating or cooling output
What makes it cool? No matter what’s happening in the system’s pressure, a PICV will still deliver the exact flow rate you’ve set. So if pressure rises or drops elsewhere, your terminal unit still gets what it needs.
Great for:Fan coil units.Chilled beams.Basic BMS setups.Energy-saving systems

What’s a PIBCV Then

Now onto the PIBCV — Pressure Independent Balancing and Control Valve. Sounds similar, right? It is, but it has an extra layer of precision.
With a PIBCV, you usually get:Manual or digital flow presets.More visibility during commissioning.Easy system diagnostics (some even offer flow readings)
This valve is built with bigger, more complex systems in mind. Think hospitals, high-rises, or large campuses with dozens of zones.
Perfect for:Multi-zone commercial buildings.Systems that require precise balancing.Projects where commissioning is a big deal.Advanced BMS integration

Which One Should You Choose

You Need... Choose This Valve
A simpler solution that works right awayPICV
A valve that helps during commissioningPIBCV
Basic flow control at terminalsPICV
High-accuracy balancing and diagnosticsPIBCV

Final Take

Both valves save energy and stabilize flow, but PIBCV gives you more control, especially when you’re fine-tuning large systems. If you just want it to “work and forget,” a PICV is easier and quicker to get running.
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