What is the primary function of a valve seat?

The primary function of a valve seat is to seal against the flow when the valve is closed. This sealing action is crucial in maintaining system integrity by preventing leakage and ensuring that the fluid is contained within the piping or equipment. A well-designed valve seat provides a tight, reliable seal, which is essential for controlling the flow of refrigerants in a refrigeration system.

When the valve is in the closed position, the surface of the valve seat makes direct contact with the valve disc or closure element, effectively blocking any flow through the valve. This allows the refrigeration system to operate efficiently and prevents refrigerants from escaping or entering unintended sections of the system, which can affect performance and safety.

The other functions associated with valves include providing structural support and guiding the valve stem, but these are secondary to the sealing function. Directing fluid to the proper outlet may be a characteristic of certain valve designs, but the core role of the valve seat remains integral to sealing when the valve is not in use.