Various Types of Ball Valves

Ball valves are crucial components in various industrial applications, offering efficient control of fluid flow with minimal pressure drop. They are particularly favored for their durability, reliability, and ease of operation. Here’s an overview of the different types of ball valves commonly used in industries:

1. Floating Ball Valve

• Description: The ball is suspended in the flow stream and held in place by compression from two elastomeric seats against it.
• Applications: Widely used in moderate pressure and temperature applications, such as water distribution, chemical industries, and residential gas supply.

2. Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve

• Description: Features a ball that is anchored at both the top and bottom, making it ideal for larger and higher pressure applications.
• Applications: Suitable for oil and gas pipelines, high-pressure water applications, and large-scale industrial environments.

3. Top Entry Ball Valve

• Description: Allows access to valve internals for maintenance by removing the valve bonnet, which is usually part of the valve body.
• Applications: Employed where in-line maintenance is necessary, such as in remote or offshore locations where valve access is challenging.

4. Full Port Ball Valve

• Description: Offers an internal diameter equal to the diameter of the piping, minimizing friction and pressure loss.
• Applications: Critical for applications requiring minimal flow resistance, like slurries, viscous fluids, or where pigging is necessary.

5. Reduced Port Ball Valve

• Description: Has a bore diameter that is typically one pipe size smaller than the valve's pipe size, leading to higher velocity but lower flow capacity.
• Applications: Useful in applications where flow control is more important than flow rate, such as in dosing operations.

6. Multi-port Ball Valve

• Description: Designed with three or more ports, allowing for multiple flow directions within the same valve, eliminating the need for additional valves.
• Applications: Ideal for transfer systems and directional control without the need for tee fittings.

7. Seal-Welded Ball Valve

• Description: Features a ball valve design where body joints are seal-welded, offering enhanced strength and leak prevention.
• Applications: Used in applications where safety and elimination of leakage are paramount, such as high-pressure gas systems.

8. V-Port Ball Valve

• Description: Equipped with a "V"-shaped ball or seat, this valve allows for better throttle control and flow regulation.
• Applications: Excellent for applications requiring precise flow control, such as in pulp and paper industries, or in food and beverage processing.