Almost every industrial operation that comes to mind involves valves in one way or another. They carry out their duties in silence, much like the unsung heroes. But have you ever thought about how long these ball control valves have been around? Really, how far back in history did people use these metal devices?

This page provides you with an extensive overview of the intriguing history of industrial valves. We’re discussing who invented them, their initial purposes, and the development of these valves from antiquity to the present.

In order to satisfy your curiosity, let’s go back in time and learn more about the development of valves.

The Real Valve Inventor

People were extremely savvy when it came to managing water in the past. To control the flow, they used objects like tree trunks, branches, and stones. The Greeks, Egyptians, and a few other ancient societies even devised methods for harvesting water from rivers and springs for irrigation.

However, the Romans were the true winners of the water game. By adding a canal system, they advanced it further. They used aqueducts, which are similar to old-fashioned plumbing, to transport water from rivers and fountains to their tribes. Therefore, we may acknowledge that the Romans were the pioneers in the field of valves.

The Roman Empire

It was a strong metal valve, the earliest known valve from Roman times. The arrangement consisted of a strong base, a lengthy lever to turn the plug on and off, and a plug with a hole in it. Though it was a simple design, it worked well to complete the task. The Romans used their cleverness to figure out how to utilize this valve in different cities’ water systems.

These historic valves were not limited to Rome; several Mediterranean cities, notably Turkey, also used them. The fact that there is evidence of several versions of these old valves is fascinating. For example, they developed into what are now known as butterfly valves and were used similarly to taps in Augusta.

Not only that, but historical relics indicate that the Romans used a rudimentary kind of diaphragm valve. Made of straightforward leather, it assisted in regulating the water’s temperature and flow in homes. Evidence also suggests that they created the first iterations of backflow prevention devices and check valves during this period. These were designed to prevent noxious effluent from contaminating pure water intended for residential and commercial use. What inventiveness from ancient times!

The Renaissance Period

Considering that there aren’t many known developments in valve technology from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance represented a significant improvement in the field. At that point, advancements in irrigation technology, hydraulics, and canal building really got things going.

Leonardo DaVinci, a well-known historical figure, was one notable contributor to these valve developments. Studies show that his drawings were a major source of inspiration for new valve designs and advancements throughout the Renaissance. Thus, DaVinci provided us with some great illustrations of the evolution of valves throughout this time.

Industrial Revolution

Next, we’ll look at valve history throughout the Industrial Revolution, which is why we utilize current valves. Thomas Newcomen invented the steam engine in 1705, changing everything. Human engineering’s superstar moment is this innovation. However, Newcomen required valve improvements to manage steam at high temperatures and pressures.

This search for improved valves taught us much about steam engineering. It required valve redesigns for every new machine. And guess what? These adjustments improved plumbing and irrigation valve efficiency and machine performance.

In the 1800s and 1900s, valve manufacturers emerged. Never before have farmers, communities, and ordinary people access to so many valves. These producers might mass-produce industrial valves, making life simpler for everyone.