What is the function of a check valve in a piping system?

A check valve serves a crucial role in a piping system by preventing backflow, which is the unintended reversal of fluid flow. This device allows fluid to pass through in one direction and automatically closes to block flow in the opposite direction. This function is essential in maintaining the integrity and safety of the system, as backflow can lead to contamination, pressure fluctuations, and potential damage to equipment.

While the regulation of fluid flow direction is also a function associated with check valves, its primary purpose is the prevention of backflow. Mixing different fluids and isolating the system are functions typically performed by other types of valves and mechanisms, not check valves. Thus, focusing on the prevention of backflow highlights the essential protective function of check valves in various applications, from wastewater management to fluid transportation systems.