Laboratory gas line check valves (to prevent backflow and cross-contamination) require strict safety considerations during installation, mainly focusing on flow direction, pressure compatibility, and gas type adaptation:
- Flow direction accuracy: Mark the "flow arrow" on the check valve clearly aligned with the gas flow direction. Incorrect installation will cause the valve to fail to open/close normally, leading to pressure buildup or backflow of harmful gases (e.g., backflow of corrosive gas into the gas cylinder).
- Pressure range matching: Ensure the valve’s cracking pressure (minimum pressure to open) is lower than the gas line’s working pressure (e.g., cracking pressure ≤0.02MPa for low-pressure lines). The maximum allowable pressure should exceed the line’s peak pressure by 20% to avoid valve damage under pressure fluctuations.
- Gas compatibility: For oxygen lines, use oxygen-clean check valves (degreased and non-combustible materials) to prevent fire risks; for hydrogen lines, choose valves with anti-static designs to avoid static sparks igniting the gas.
- Installation location: Install check valves near gas cylinder regulators or instrument inlets—this minimizes the backflow path and protects key equipment from contamination.