How Ball Valves Work and Their Applications

Ball valves are essential components in various industries, providing efficient flow control and reliable shut-off capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore how ball valves work and their wide-ranging applications.

How Ball Valves Work

Design and Mechanism

• • A ball valve consists of a spherical closure unit (the ball) with a bore through its center.
  • When the bore aligns with the pipeline, the valve is in the open position, allowing fluid to flow.
  • Rotating the ball 90 degrees obstructs the flow, effectively closing the valve.
  • Ball valves are part of the quarter-turn valve family, along with butterfly and plug valves.

Types of Ball Valves

• • Trunnion-Mounted Ball Valves:
    • Suitable for larger-bore and higher-pressure operations.
    • Reduced valve torque due to additional mechanical anchoring.
    • CAMERON T30 Series fully welded ball valves are an example of trunnion-mounted valves.
  • Floating Ball Valves:
    • The ball is attached only to the stem.
    • Positive seal due to slight downstream ball movement.
  • Rising Stem Ball Valves:
    • Incorporate tilt-and-turn operation, eliminating seal rubbing.
    • ORBIT rising stem ball valves offer fast, low-torque operation and reliable performance.

Bore Types

• • Full-Port (Fullbore) Ball Valves:
    • Bore diameter equal to the pipeline ID.
    • Ideal for pigging operations.
  • Reduced-Port (Reduced-Bore) Ball Valves:
    • Smaller bores result in higher energy losses.

Applications of Ball Valves

Transmission and Storage

• • Ball valves are commonly used in pipelines for oil, gas, and other fluids.
  • Their leak-tight design ensures reliable performance.
  • Low pressure drop allows efficient flow.

Gas Processing

• • Ball valves provide leak protection in gas applications.
  • Quick opening and closing capabilities enhance safety.

Industrial Applications

• • Ball valves are found in chemical plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities.
  • They handle a wide range of fluids and offer versatility.

Other Applications

• • HVAC systems, water treatment plants, and marine applications also benefit from ball valves.

Ball Valves Company

When searching for high-quality ball valves, consider reputable manufacturers and suppliers. Companies like CNLD Valve, KME Industrial, Dixon and UNIMECH (Asia Pacific) offer a variety of ball valves suitable for different industries. Whether you need stainless steel, flanged, or air-operated ball valves, these companies provide reliable solutions.

In summary, ball valves play a crucial role in fluid control, and understanding their operation and applications is essential for engineers, technicians, and industry professionals.