Everything You Should Know About Ball Valves

Things You Should Know About Ball Valves

The progress in the manufacturing mechanism has resulted in the evolution of industrial equipment as well. The introduction of the latest machinery has ensured the higher efficiency of industrial work. Ball valves are one of the most widely used industrial equipment.

There are different types of valves used extensively in industries, and ball valves are amongst the most popular ones. From petrochemical industries to power plants, ball valves are used everywhere.

A ball valve has a cylindrical design with a ball in the middle that controls the flow of the material. It has a simple mechanism that makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of industrial applications. There are different sizes of industrial valves available according to the scope of their usage.

This blog will provide all the information about the ball valves that you need to know.

Mechanism of a Ball Valve

An SIO ball valve is based on the simple mechanism of opening and closing of passage by controlling the movement of a ball. When the ball covers the passage, the flow of the material is hindered. On the contrary, when the ball does not cover the passage, the material starts flowing. Ball valves are used for different forms of materials ranging from gases to liquids.

Different kinds of ball valves vary in strength and ability to withstand pressure. The most robust ones are widely used in applications like steam power plants. Due to the excellent sealing of ball valves, they are an ideal choice for controlling gas flow.

Types of Ball Valves

Although ball valves can be divided into many types based on their functionality, their major two categories are given below:

Floating Ball Valve:

A floating ball valve does not have any anchor for holding the ball. However, there is a stem that is attached to the ball. Due to this reason, the fluid freely moves the ball downwards according to the pressure of the flow. A floating ball valve is considered a great choice for regulating the flow of the valve.

Trunnion Ball Valve:

Unlike the floating ball valve, the trunnion ball valve comes with an anchor on both sides of the ball. This additional support provides a pivot to the ball and helps contain the huge flow. Due to this reason, trunnion ball valves are very popular for applications, which involve the flow of high-pressure valves.

Low-Temperature Ball Valve
Low-Temperature Ball Valve – Source Pinterest

Pros of Ball Valves

Some of the biggest benefits of ball valves are given below:

Convenient Usage:

Unlike other types of valves, ball valves are the most convenient in usage because of their simple mechanism. Due to the small size and lightweight of the ball valves, they are easier to handle. They can be installed, removed, and operated conveniently without too much effort or skill.

There are lesser chances of personal errors while operating ball valves which make them a very safe choice. Also, there are no expert professionals required to operate ball valves, and a common worker can easily do so.

High Efficiency:

The extraordinary efficiency of ball valves is undeniable. The risk of leakage associated with ball valves is minimal due to their full-proof sealing. No matter what kind of ball valve you are using, there is always a guarantee of excellent functionality. Ball valves cannot only control the high-pressure flow of liquids and gases but also regulate low-pressure flow effectively.

Versatility:

Ball valves are amongst the most popular types of industrial valves. They are used extensively in all kinds of industries ranging from wastewater management to pharmaceutical. The ball valves are also excellent for managing the flow of both liquids and gases.

Low Maintenance:

Ball valves require low-maintenance compared to other types of valves. The simple mechanism of ball valves makes them less prone to wear and tear. The use of a pivot concentrates all the friction on one part of the valve saving the rest of the parts.

Due to this reason, there is a lesser need for regular maintenance for ball valves as compared to other types of valves. In addition to that, a ball valve can be repaired easily at a minimal cost.

Cost-efficient:

The price of a ball valve is very reasonable compared to the other types of valves. In addition to that, the lesser maintenance needs also make ball valves a cost-efficient choice.

Robustness:

The ball valves are considered one of the strongest types of valves. They have an enormous ability to withstand great amounts of pressure and temperature. The material used in ball valves is less prone to corrosion and damage. That is why ball valves can be used extensively in all kinds of environmental conditions.

Cons of Ball Valves

The major drawbacks of ball valves are mentioned below:

Unsuitable for Long Duration Throttling:

A big drawback of a ball valve is that it is not a great choice for throttling for a long time. This is mainly true for fast-flowing liquids at high pressure. The continuous force exerted on the ball valve can cause different parts to become a bit weary. Due to this reason, the ball valve loses its efficiency during permanent throttling.

Cavitation:

Another major disadvantage of a ball valve is that it is prone to getting deposits of the flowing material on it. The main reason for that is the design of the ball valve that allows the flowing liquid to get stuck. That is why ball valves are not the recommended choice for thick liquids. If a dense fluid keeps on flowing through the ball valves, it can jam their working due to clogging. This problem requires cleaning of the ball valve to get its optimized efficiency.

Steel ball valve brewing kettle
Steel ball valve brewing kettle – Image source Best stainless steel ball valves for homebrew kettles

Conclusion

A ball valve is one of the most popular kinds of industrial valves. The scope of its usage is not limited to one area but rather encompasses all the fields. The information given above will help you understand ball valves better.

Featured image source: Can a Ball Valve be used as a control valve.

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