While a circuit setter is a balancing valve, it is not the only type. Circuit setters are calibrated balancing valves. Other types of balancing valves include manual balancing valves, such as ball or butterfly valves, automatic system-powered flow limiting valves, and pressure-independent flow control valves.
What is a Circuit Setter?
Circuit setters are designed for pre-set proportional system balance. This system balance method involves pre-setting the valves to achieve optimum system flow balance (at minimum horsepower) using the manufacturer’s performance curves. This method is based on the fact that if you know the pressure drop through the device and its Cv (the flow rate in GPM through the device that results in a 1 psi pressure drop), mathematically, you can determine the flow.
Other Types of Balancing Valves
- Automatic Balancing Valves – these valves automatically maintain a fixed flow rate value, despite changes in differential pressure, to optimize system operation.
- Manual Balancing Valves – these valves offer a fixed resistance to water flow.
- Fixed-Orifice Balancing Valves – these valves are static balancing valves that feature a fixed orifice, such as a Venturi insert, combined with pressure/temperature ports that enable measurement of the differential pressure across the orifice.
- Direct Reading Balancing Valves – A variation of a fixed-orifice valve, direct reading valves do not require ΔP readings. Instead, they use a built-in flow meter.
- Pressure-Independent Flow Control Valves – All-in-one devices that combine the capabilities of balancing valves, control valves, and differential pressure regulators.
- Thermal Balancing Valves – Designed primarily for balancing domestic hot water recirculation circuits, thermal balancing valves modulate the flow rate within a circuit to maintain a fixed temperature and ensure adequate water temperature at the fixtures.
For more information, read the full What is a Pressure Balancing Valve? blog post.
Bell & Gossett Circuit Setters
Bell & Gossett Circuit Setter Plus Calibrated Balance Valves are the premier circuit setter on the market. They are designed for pre-set proportional system balance. This system balance method developed by Bell & Gossett assures optimum system flow balance at minimum pump operating horsepower. Valves can be pre-set using the B&G Circuit Setter Balance Valve Calculator, curve booklet, or the System Syzer application for iPhone, iPad, or PC.
Bell & Gossett Circuit Setter Features
- Lead-free brass design
- Brass models 1/2" through 3" are suitable for all potable water systems. They are also:
- AB1953 certified
- Vermont S152 certified
- ANSI/NSF-61 Annex G compliant
- Calibrated accurate flow control and measurement
- Sizes range from 1/2" to 12"
- Ball valve-style circuit setters are available in 1/2" through 4" sizes
- Globe valve-style circuit setters are available in 4" to 12" sizes
- Multiple end connections are available:
- Union – upstream (1/2" to 2")
- Sweat (female) and NPT (male and female) (1/2" to 2")
- Flanged 2-1/2" to 12"
- Grooved 4" to 12"
- Flow range up to 7,200 GPM
- Pre-balance design capability
- Integrated valved readout ports
Shop Bell & Gossett Circuit Setter Valves
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How to Identify or Change Flow Rates on Xylem Bell & Gossett Circuit Sentry Valves