Equipment I
Glossary


actuator
An automated device that controls the opening and closing of a valve.

bell reducer
A pipe fitting with one end larger than the other, which is used to transition between two different pipe diameters.

blank
A thin solid disc installed between flanges to isolate a run of pipe or piece of equipment.

blind
A thick solid disc used to stop the flow of liquid at the end of a pipe.

bushing
A pipe fitting used to join pipes of different diameters.

cap
A pipe fitting used to terminate a process flow by covering the end of the pipe.

check valve
A valve which allows flow in one direction, but not the other.

control loop
A group of instruments which act together to control a process variable.

control valve
An automated actuator combined with a throttle valve body.

corrosion
The oxidation of a material due to electrochemical reactions.

coupling
A pipe fitting designed to connect two pieces of pipe together.

elbow
A pipe fitting used to change the direction of the pipe run. Typcially 45° or 90° angles.

electric actuator
An actuator that uses electrical energy to operate and control the valve.

expansion joints
A piece of equipment designed to allow expansion and movement of piping.

expansion loops
Sections of piping designed for the expansion and contraction of piping during temperature change.

flanged connections
Plate-like fittings connected to a pipe to create a bolted connection. A flange can be as simple as two pieces of pipe connected with bolts, flanges, and a gasket.

flow direction valves
Valves that change the fluid flow path.

flow orifice
A thin disc with a small opening that is installed between pipe flanges to restrict the flow of fluid.

galvanization
A process of coating a pipe with a thin layer of zinc to help prevent corrosion.

gasket
A seal placed in between flanged connections to prevent leaking.

hydraulic actuator
An actuator that uses a liquid to drive the valve.

isolation valves
Valves designed to start or stop the flow of fluid.

nipple
A short section of pipe with two male threaded ends used to connect two other fittings.

pipe insulation
A material wrapped around piping to prevent process fluid heat from escaping to the atmosphere.

pipe supports
Structural devices designed to suspend piping in overhead locations and control the movement of pipe.

piping
A hollow cylinder typically constructed from metal or plastic.

plug
A pipe fitting used to terminate the end of a female pipe.

pneumatic actuator
An actuator that converts air pressure to mechanical energy to control the fluid flow through a valve.

position indicator
An actuator component used to provide feedback of the valve’s position.

positioner
An actuator component which compares the valve stem position to the signal from the controller and adjusts the valve stem to maintain a set point.

relief valve
A valve designed to protect a system from damage due to over pressurizing.

rupture disc
A large disc d