Temperature Control Valve - Definition and Working Principle

Brian Craig

September 27, 2021

Control valves are an integral part of various industrial applications, such as power generation units, oil and gas plants, fire prevention systems, and more. These control valves are available in different types and specifications. Temperature control valves are one of the popular valve types used today. These devices are designed to control the fluid temperature in the system to ensure efficient process operations. The temperature control valve controls the fluid flow, flow rate, and the process quantities, such as temperature, pressure, and liquid levels. Is that all? Obviously not. How does a temperature control valve work? What types of temperature control valves are in use today? Are you bothered with these questions? If yes, this post answers all questions regarding temperature control valves. So, stay tuned.

A Quick Overview of Temperature Control Valve

Temperature control valves are also called temperature regulators. They are common control elements used in the process control industry. They are similar to other control valves; however, the difference is in controlling process temperatures at a specific level. They are used to control the temperature of the fluid in compressors, engine jacket water, turbines, and so on. Often abbreviated as TCV, they are also used in cogeneration systems to control varying temperatures and ensuring the cooling of the engine. Temperature control valves are distinguished based on the number of ports they have. It means the control valve with two ports is a 2-way valve and the one with three ports is a 3-way valve.

Key Features of a Temperature Control Valve:

High accuracy in temperature regulation.
Fast response time to temperature fluctuations.
Compatibility with steam, water, oil, and other fluids.
Available in stainless steel, bronze, or special alloy bodies.
Durable designs with long service life.

How Does a Temperature Control Valve Work?

Before getting into the working of the temperature control valve, it is important to understand its structure. The structure of the temperature control valve comprises four main parts- - the temperature detecting element, sensor, power source, and controlling medium. The temperature detecting element is a temperature sensor responsible for sending either an electrical or mechanical signal to the actuator. Later, the actuator uses this signal to act on the power source that determines the valve’s position.

The temperature control valve operates on a mechanical temperature measuring instrument. The temperature control valve or temperature regulator uses a filled bulb as a temperature sensor. Due to the material’s thermal expansion properties, it expands with a temperature rise. This expansion trigger stress in the pressure of the actuator. This pressure changes the position of the valve on the regulator that controls a coolant’s flow rate.

The temperature control valves use two popular temperature control schemes as described below.

Mixing of Cold and Hot Process Fluid: In this, the hot and cold process fluids are set at two different temperatures- Tx and Ty. The temperature control valve (TCV) is set such that the cold process fluid is allowed to physically mix with the hot process fluid to get the required temperature. It is important to note that the fluids must not chemically react with each other. The sensor is installed in the hot process fluid. Ty measures and sends the hot process fluid’s temperature to the controller that has the set point Tx. The controller senses the change once the hot process fluid’s temperature surpasses Ty. The control valve will allow the cold process fluid to mix with the hot one till the set point temperature is achieved.
Exchange of Heat between Hot and Cold Process Fluid: In this method, energy transfer between the two hot and cold process fluids occurs instead of the fluids mixing. This means cold fluid passes energy through the tube, while the hot fluid passes through the shell of the exchanger. The hot fluid passes energy to the cold fluid, and the rise in temperature of cold fluid is sensed as well as controlled by the temperature sensor or temperature transmitter and sent to the temperature controller. The controller accordingly sends to TCV to remain open or shut depending upon the temperature elevation. It would remain open and facilitate energy transfer till the required temperature set point is achieved.

Where Are Temperature Control Valves Used?

Temperature control valves are utilized across a wide range of industries to maintain precise thermal conditions in critical processes and systems.

Power Plants (Cooling Water Systems): Temperature control valves are used in power plants to regulate cooling water that helps maintain safe and efficient operating temperatures. They prevent overheating in turbines and generators, which can cause performance issues or equipment damage.
Oil & Gas Refineries (Process Heating/Cooling): In oil and gas refineries, these valves help manage temperature in heating and cooling loops for various chemical processes. They ensure precise control during distillation, cracking, and other thermal operations.
Pharmaceutical Plants (Batch Temperature Regulation): Pharmaceutical facilities use temperature control valves to maintain consistent temperatures in reactors and process vessels. This helps ensure product quality and compliance with strict regulatory standards.
Food & Beverage (Pasteurization and Sterilization): In the food and beverage industry, these valves regulate temperature during pasteurization, sterilization, and cooking. This ensures food safety while maintaining product texture, taste, and quality.
HVAC Systems (Air Temperature Control): Temperature control valves in HVAC systems manage hot or chilled water flow to maintain indoor climate conditions. They enhance energy efficiency and ensure occupant comfort in commercial and industrial spaces.
Automotive (Engine Cooling Circuits): In automotive applications, these valves regulate engine coolant flow based on real-time temperature. This helps optimize engine performance, reduce emissions, and extend component lifespan.

If you are looking to install temperature control valves for your applications, it is always a good practice to consult an industry-leading valve supplier before making any decision. The Transmitter Shop is a one-stop solution for you. The company offers a wide range of control valves from top industry brands, like Fisher.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Where is the temperature control valve located?

A temperature control valve is typically installed at points where precise temperature regulation is required — such as downstream of heat exchangers, within cooling loops, or before sensitive equipment like turbines or compressors.

How does a temperature valve work?

The valve senses temperature changes using a thermal sensor and adjusts fluid flow to maintain a predefined setpoint, either by mixing hot/cold fluids or through heat exchange.

What is the difference between a temperature control valve and a pressure control valve?

A temperature valve regulates thermal conditions by adjusting flow based on heat readings, whereas a pressure valve controls fluid pressure irrespective of its temperature.