Sight glass

A sight glass or sight-flow indicator provides a window into a process line so an operator can observe the presence and approximate condition of flow, fluid colour, or nearby equipment performance. It is not necessarily a shutoff valve, despite its taxonomy placement, and visual observation is not a substitute for accurate flow measurement or definitive fault diagnosis. Selection should address compatibility of the glass and seals with the medium, pressure and temperature, viewing clarity, orientation, guarding, and cleaning requirements.

Application and duty

Direct observation of approximate flow condition or fluid colour in a pipeline; visual limits and transparent-component compatibility must be reviewed for the service.

TECHNICAL REFERENCE

Selection summary

The broadest family for isolation, non-return, pressure regulation and line protection

Manual valve selection does not start with a valve name. Duty, fluid, pressure and temperature, allowable leakage, wetted materials, connection and operating method must be considered together.

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