What Is a Wafer Type Butterfly Valve

A wafer type butterfly valve is designed to fit snugly between two flanges using long bolts that pass through the valve body and both flanges. It relies on flange compression and pipeline pressure to stay in place. Because of this design, it’s compact and cost-effective.

Key Features

• Lightweight and easy to install

• Designed for systems where space and cost are major concerns

• Less expensive compared to lug type valves

• Not designed for dead-end service

Applications

• Water supply and treatment

• HVAC systems

• Irrigation and agriculture

• General-purpose industrial pipelines

If your system does not require frequent maintenance or segment isolation, a wafer valve is a practical, affordable option.

What Is a Lug Type Butterfly Valve

A lug type butterfly valve has threaded metal lugs (similar to ears) on the valve body. Each lug allows the valve to be independently bolted to the flanges on either side. This configuration means one side of the pipeline can be disconnected while the valve remains in service.

Key Features

• Allows dead-end service—ideal for isolating segments of a pipeline

• Stronger, more secure mounting

• Better suited for higher-pressure or safety-critical systems

• Slightly heavier and more expensive than wafer type

Applications

• Fire protection pipelines

• Chemical and industrial processing systems

• Marine and shipboard piping

• Oil and gas distribution

When system maintenance is frequent or critical, the ability to isolate the valve from either side becomes a major advantage.

Key Comparison Table

How to Choose: Wafer vs Lug Butterfly Valve

• System pressure: Lug valves are preferred for higher pressure applications.

• Maintenance frequency: Lug valves allow partial shutdown and are easier to service.

• Budget: Wafer valves are more affordable for basic flow control.

• Installation space: Wafer valves are more compact for tight installations.

At Qingdao I-Flow, we offer both wafer and lug type butterfly valves made from cast iron, stainless steel, and other high-performance materials, engineered for various industries. Contact our team for support in selecting the ideal valve for your system.