What is a control valve?
A control valve opens, closes or modulates flow automatically through an actuator or pilot mechanism, holding flow, pressure or temperature at the desired value. Unlike manual valves, it acts on a control signal or on a physical value in the line. From heating and cooling systems and steam heat exchangers to water networks and process automation, control valves are key to energy efficiency and safe operation.
Types of control valves
Five main groups by duty: on-off control valves (pneumatic or electric, fully open/closed); modulating control valves (positioned by 4–20 mA / 0–10 V signals); pressure control valves (pressure reducing valves and regulators); thermostatic control valves (self-acting, temperature sensing) and hydraulic control valves (pilot-operated by line pressure).
How to choose control valves
- Duty: on-off, modulating, pressure or temperature control?
- Actuation and energy: compressed air, electric motor or self-acting (thermostatic, hydraulic).
- Sizing: modulating valves are sized by Kv from flow and pressure drop, not by pipe size.
- Fluid, temperature and pressure class: steel bodies and suitable packing for steam and thermal oil.
- Fail-safe position: open or closed on loss of power or air (NO/NC).
Control valve range at ORFA
ORFA supplies 1782 control valve models from brands including Sms-tork, Varnasan, Alfanox, Ayvaz, Danfoss and ARI-Armaturen. Sizes DN15–DN200; pressure ratings PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN63; connections: threaded, flanged, compression; body materials: stainless steel AISI 316, stainless steel AISI 304, stainless steel, cast/ductile iron, brass. Use the filters to narrow the range by size, pressure rating, connection and material.
Control valve prices and supply
Control valve prices are shown in USD, excluding local taxes, with worldwide shipping from Türkiye. For project quantities, models not listed or technical selection support, request a quote or call +90 224 444 67 32 — our export team will reply with price, lead time and shipping options.
Frequently asked questions
What types of control valves are there?
On-off, modulating, pressure control (pressure reducing), thermostatic and hydraulic control valves.
On-off vs modulating control valve?
An on-off valve is either fully open or closed; a modulating valve holds intermediate positions according to the control signal for precise flow control.
How is a control valve sized?
The Kv value is calculated from required flow and pressure drop; the valve size is chosen from it and is often smaller than the pipe.
Are there control valves that need no power?
Yes – thermostatic valves use a temperature sensor and hydraulic control valves use line pressure.