Lift-check valves feature a guided disc and a similar seating arrangement as globe valves. They are best used in systems with globe valves and plastic check valves. There are three body patterns (horizontal, angle, and vertical) which can be installed in horizontal or vertical lines with upward flow. For proper function of lift check valves, the flow must enter below the seat. The pressure of the upward flow raises the seat within guides from the seat. The disk falls back down to close the pipe when the flow stops or reverses. When installed horizontally, the disk is suspended by a system of guide ribs. Silent or center guide valves are similar to lift check valves, with a center guide extending from inlet to outlet ports. The valve stopper is a spring and bushing actuated to keep the movement "quiet." Lift check valves are composed of a metallic body with seats either integrated with the body or contained in renewable seat rings. The disk construction is similar to the construction of globe valves, with either metal or composition disks. Piston check valves are very similar to lift check valves as well. They provide the best seal tightness and are the most practical for small sizes.
A ball check valve uses a free-floating or spring loaded ball resting in a seat ring as the closure element. It is similar in construction to a ball valve. The mechanics of check valve operation are relatively simple. Most check valves contain a ball that sits freely above the seat, which has only one through-hole. The ball has a slightly larger diameter than that of the through-hole. When the pressure behind the seat exceeds that above the ball, liquid is allowed to flow through the valve; however, once the pressure above the ball exceeds the pressure below the seat, the ball returns to rest in the seat, forming a seal that prevents backflow. They are best used for services with viscous fluids or when there is sediment in the system