Valves are found in virtually every industrial process imaginable. In fact, they are quite possibly the most diverse instrument used today. But have you ever considered just how long we have been using valves for?

Here, we explore the complete history of valves. Beginning with its first known uses, we trace the evolution of the valve and how it has advanced throughout history.

Before delving into some in-depth valve’s history, let’s establish who invented the valve. While most applications tend to have a sole inventor, the vale does not.

Since Ancient times, man knew how to regulate water with either stones or branches and trunks from trees. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks were among those who drove water from rivers and foundations for their people to use as irrigation.

However, it is the Roman Empire that was the first civilisation to create anything that resembled a formal canal system. They brought water from fountains and rivers to their villages, whilst circumnavigating obstacles via aqueducts. Therefore, if a particular civilisation was to be credited with creating the valve, it would have to be the Romans.

The first valve recorded in Roman times was made of bronze material. These primitive valves were strong and designed for welding to pipes already in place. The body included a plug with a hole, a bottom support and a long levy for turning the plug. Simple in design, but effective nevertheless, it demonstrated the smart thinking our Roman ancestors applied to creating water systems used in ancient towns.

In addition, these early valves were also used in various Mediterranean towns such as Istanbul and Rabat. Interestingly, there is also evidence of slight variations on this primitive valve recorded in Augusta, where what would eventually become butterfly valves were used as taps.

Furthermore, there are recorded artefacts which shows Romans used primitive diaphragm valves. Made from crude leather, they were used to control the flow and temperature of household bathwater. Evidence also exists that early forms of backflow and check valves existed around this time to help keep wastewater from mixing with clean water suppliers for towns.

While there were no recorded advancements during the Middle Ages, there was significant advancements during the Renaissance period. The construction of canals, irrigation systems and hydraulics all advanced greatly during the Renaissance. These advancements included a more sophisticated valve, the credit for which goes to a very famous figure in human history, Leonardo DaVinci. Sketches from the master inventor provided a number of new designs and improvements, which helped lead to many great examples of Renaissance-era valves.

The next stage of the valve’s history occurred during the Industrial Revolution and was one that would help lead to the modern valve as we know it today. In 1705, the first steam engine was invented by Thomas Newcomen. However, he needed new and improved valves to regulate steam at high pressure.

The lessons learned from the exploration of steam engineering would ensure that, as new machines were created, the design of valves also improved. These improvements would also go on to improve the effectiveness of valves used in irrigation and plumbing.

Advancements in valve technology contributed toward the birth of the valve manufacturers during the 1800s and 1900s. With manufacturers finally able to produce valves in greater volume, more communities, farms and individuals began using the various different valves available than ever before. The ability to make valves on assembly lines contributed towards them becoming an important part of the automotive world, with valves used in engines and other areas of cars.

Today, more styles of valves are available than ever before. With a variety of materials available, the breadth of choice and flexibility has never been greater. What engineering advancements will come in the future is impossible to say. However, it’s safe to assume that the valve will play a huge part in them.