GENERAL FEATURES
A ball valve is a valve that uses a ball-shaped disk to stop or start the flow, operating with a quarter-turn rotational motion. It is defined as a mechanical device that directs and modulates the flow of various types of fluids by opening a ball with a hole in the center of the valve. By turning the handle on the ball valve, the port that controls the pressure of the fluid flow is manually opened or closed. Durability and excellent sealing make ball valves advantageous compared to other types of valves.
More complex control systems that use valves to regulate flow from a pipeline require an actuator. The actuator controls the valve pneumatically or electrically and positions it appropriately to ensure the fluid flow is precise according to varying pressures and flow levels. When selecting the appropriate ball valve, factors such as temperature and pressure, number of ports, valve size, body material type, end connections, and configurations should be considered.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Ball Valves
ADVANTAGES:
-
Fast open-close operation
-
Tight sealing with low torque
-
Smaller size compared to most other valves
DISADVANTAGES:
-
Conventional ball valves have weak throttling capabilities
-
In slurry or similar applications, suspended particles can settle, get trapped in body cavities, and cause wear, leakage, or valve failure
APPLICATION AREAS
-
Air, gas, and liquid applications
-
Drainage and venting of liquids, gases, and other fluid services
-
Steam service
-
Food processing facilities
-
Chemical industry
-
Paper, PET, and other recycling sectors
Material Construction:
-
Body: AISI304 Stainless Steel
-
Ball: AISI304 Stainless Steel
Connections:
-
BSP Threaded
Nominal Size:
-
DN15 (1/2”) – DN100 (4”)
Pressure Ratings:
-
Max. 63 bar
Temperature:
-
Depending on the material: -10ºC / +180ºC