Same Specifications, Different Design: What Affects the Price of a Diverter Valve
Recently, during one of our projects, a customer asked a perfectly reasonable question: Why is your diverter valve 20% more expensive? After all, both valves had the same specifications in the commercial proposal:
- 400×400 mm cross-section;
- lining;
- automatic actuator.
At first glance, the products appear identical. However, a detailed analysis of their design revealed several significant differences.
1. Full Flow Cross-Section
In the ZEO-AV Single-Sided Automatic Diverter Valve, the 400×400 mm working cross-section is maintained throughout the entire product flow path.
In the alternative solution, the internal channel narrowed, meaning that the actual flow cross-section was smaller than specified. This design creates additional flow resistance and may limit the capacity of the conveying route.
2. Full Lining of Internal Surfaces
The specifications for both products included “lining.”
However, in one case, only specific wear zones were lined, while in the other, all internal surfaces of the valve were lined with a 6 mm thick polymer.
Full lining provides better protection of the housing against abrasive wear and directly affects the service life of the equipment.
3. Design Tightness
Seals on both sides of the bucket were provided only in the ZEO-AV valve.
This helps minimize product spillage, keep the equipment clean, and reduce losses during operation.
In the end, it became clear that we were not comparing two identical diverter valves, but two different design approaches. This is why the price difference was fully justified.
| Grain Capital | Customer benefit | |
|---|---|---|
| Full flow cross-section | No flow restrictions | Maintained capacity |
| Full 6 mm polymer lining | All internal surfaces are protected | Longer service life |
| Sealing on both sides | Minimized product spillage | Reduced product losses |
| Disassemblable design | Quick access to components | Easy maintenance |
Bucket shaft on rolling bearings |
Reliable mechanism operation | Lower operating costs |
That is why, when selecting equipment, it is important to consider not only the product name, dimensions, or basic specifications, but also the design solutions inside.
The difference between such products becomes apparent not at the time of purchase, but after years of operation.
Our managers will professionally select the right equipment based on the specific needs of your facility. Contact us: +38 (067) 558-58-37, info@zeo.ua
