Ball valves are designed to provide a tight seal. And precise control over water flow, but why are they not allowed to be used for adjusting flow? The answer lies in the way that ball valves operate. Yet, the flow can be changed.
They do not provide adjustment to large amount of fluid, so not used as valve to adjust flow. You can control the size of the flow. If water flow is restricted, it can create dangerous pressure build-ups. It could cause the valve to fail. This is why ball valves must only apply in applications where water flow can be easily controlled.
Let’s take a closer look at how ball valves operate and are they can be used to control the flow of water.
What Are Ball Valves?
The ball valve is a shutoff valve that uses a ball to control fluid flow downstream. You can perform on and off functions with ball valves and throttling services. The mechanism of ball valves is like the mechanism of plug valves. Yet the seating element looks like a ball.
A quarter-turn of the handle is required to open or close them, making them quick-opening. Large size and high operating pressure are essential. These parameters overcome the torque of these machines as they need manual or power operators to operate them.
As well as having a soft seat that conforms easily to the ball’s surface, they also come with a secondary seal. It is made of metal.
Ball valves can be used for throttling, stopping, and reversing the flow. And are suited for use when preventing and starting flow. Ball valves have the advantage of being relatively small and light compared to other valves with similar ratings.
Characteristics of Ball Valve
- A ball valve is a type of valve that controls the flow of liquid or gas through a pipe.
- It consists of a ball with a hole in the center connected to a handle.
- When the handle is turned, the ball rotates to open or close the valve.
- Ball valves are used in many applications, including automotive, plumbing, and industries.
- Ball valves are known for their durability and reliability.
- They are often used in high-pressure applications and can withstand large amounts of wear and tear.
- Ball valves are also easy to operate and can be opened and closed with a single handle turn.
Ball Valve Types
A ball valve can be classified into one of the following types based on its function:
Trunnion Ball Valve
A trunnion ball valve is a type of ball valve in which the ball is supported by a trunnion on either side of the ball. The advantage of this design is that it provides stability to the ball. It makes it less likely to become damaged over time.
This could be the best option if you are working on a project that will be subjected to high pressure, such as a construction site. The top of this kind of valve has a different anchoring system on it and the bottom.
These anchoring systems help relieve extra pressure and reduce friction. Thus maintaining a safe operation and a long-lasting lifetime.
Hydraulic Ball Valves
Hydraulic ball valves are one of the most widely used valve types in fluid power applications. They are actuated by various means, including solenoids, pilot-operated systems, and manually. The valving action is achieved by applying hydraulic pressure to move a ball within the valve body between an open and closed position.
They are often used to control the flow of fluid within a hydraulic system, as well as to isolate sections of the system for maintenance or repair.
Lug Ball Valve
A lug ball valve is a type of ball valve that has lugs on either side of the ball. As a result of this design, it makes the valve easier to install and remove. Lug ball valves are often used in applications where there is a need for frequent maintenance. Or where the position of the valve needs to be changed frequently.
Flanged Ball Valve
A flanged ball valve is a type of valve with a flange on either side of the ball to attach it to the pipeline. Certainly, one of the most popular valves, as it is very easy to install and remove. Also, they are less likely to come loose over time due to their design.
This valve is most commonly used in domestic settings and small businesses. In addition, they are an excellent option if you are looking for a low-cost option as they are very affordable.
Floating Ball Valve
Floating ball valves, as the name implies, do not have an additional anchoring system on trunnion ball valves. Consequently, they float in the air, connected only to the valve’s stem, resembling their name.
The ball slowly moves down with the flow of the pipeline’s contents until it reaches its opening. It results in a seal and stopping the liquid flow until the ball comes into the opening.
Under What Conditions are ball valves suitable For use?
It is common to find ball valves used in a variety of applications, including the following:
- A ball valve has a variety of applications in the power industry. Such as regulating boiler feed water and triggering burner trips. Also, in controlling steam and shutting down boilers and steam lines.
- As a means of controlling low differential pressure, controlling pollutants, doing extensive work with highly viscous fluids, and handling abrasive slurries in manufacturing and storage facilities.
- A subsea isolation facility can be used for subsea shutdowns, oil-head isolation, and pipeline surge resistance. Also, processing separation, storage, transmission, and distribution. And secondary oil recovery to enhance oil recovery.
- As a closed-off valve in pulp and paper mill digesters, the ball valve is also used as a blow-off valve. Also as the liquid filling and circulation valve, the lime mud flow control valve, and the dilution water control valve.
Conclusion
Ball valves are an excellent choice for many applications, but they have a few drawbacks that should be considered before using them. Make sure to consider the type of liquid flowing, the velocity of the flow, and the amount of control needed before selecting a ball valve for your pipelin
