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P.C. Engineering Corporation
Saunders Industrial Diaphragm Valve - Overview

Overview

Saunders industrial diaphragm valves, manufactured by Crane ChemPharma & Energy, are engineered for process industries where corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, and leak-tight operation are critical. Since the invention of the diaphragm valve by P.K. Saunders in 1928, these valves have set the benchmark for handling corrosive chemicals, slurries, and abrasive media across diverse industrial sectors.

The diaphragm valve design isolates all working parts from the line media, ensuring positive closure even with entrained particulates. This makes Saunders valves ideal for both on/off and throttling control applications. The three-part construction allows in-line maintenance and actuator retrofitting without removing the valve body from the pipeline, significantly reducing plant downtime.

Saunders diaphragm valves are available in multiple configurations—including the versatile "A Type" weir design for corrosive media, KB and K Type straight-through designs for solids handling, and specialized WFB variants for marine and fire applications. All diaphragms are manufactured in-house using advanced polymer compounding technology.

Key Features

  • 100% leak-tight shut-off in pressure and vacuum services (per MSS SP-88, BS EN 12266-1)
  • Corrosion resistant linings: elastomer and fluoropolymer options eliminate need for exotic alloys
  • Abrasion resistant polymer technology; KB type handles up to 100% solids
  • Top-entry, three-part design enables in-line maintenance and reduced downtime
  • Linear operation eliminates rotational seat wear, extending service life
  • Operating mechanism fully isolated from process media
  • Suitable for throttling and control with streamlined, cavity-free flow path
  • Installation versatility—can be mounted in any position

Specifications

ParameterValue / Range
Valve TypesA Type (Weir), KB/K Type (Straight Through), WFB, NX Check
Size RangeDN8 (¼") to DN250 (10")
Diaphragm MaterialsPTFE, Modified PTFE, Elastomers (Rubber, XA composite)
Body LiningsGlass, Fluorocarbon, Elastomer, Fluoropolymer
Solids HandlingUp to 15% (A Type); up to 100% (KB Type)
Actuation OptionsManual, Modular Pneumatic, Compact Pneumatic
Standards ComplianceMSS SP-88, BS EN 12266-1, Global Standards
Special VariantsFire-tested diaphragm (WFB), Three-layer diaphragm for corrosive gases

Applications

Saunders industrial diaphragm valves are used across a wide range of process industries, including:

- Chemical & Petrochemical: Handling corrosive acids, alkalis, and solvents - Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology: High-purity fluid control - Water & Wastewater Treatment: Slurry and abrasive media isolation - Pulp & Paper: Abrasive stock and chemical dosing - Mining & Minerals Processing: High-solids slurry lines - Marine & Offshore: Fire mains, tank cleaning, and washdown systems - Power Generation: Utility and cooling water circuits

Product Images

Saunders Industrial Diaphragm Valve - Overview
Saunders Diaphragm Valve - Weir Type
Saunders Diaphragm Valve - Straight Through Design
Saunders Valve Application
Saunders Valve Actuator Options
Saunders Diaphragm Valve Components

Frequently Asked Questions

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Saunders Industrial Diaphragm Valves - Weir & Straight