Ball valves are an important and essential component in any pipeline system. Moreover, they are a feature of many industrial setups that involve fluid distribution through pipes. Whether it is the petroleum industry, chemical industry, or any other, ball valves are vital for regulating fluid flow in pipe networks. Even in your household's plumbing, valves are needed to block water flowing through pipes. 

A ball valve has a simple mechanism that consists of a closure component, which is fixed in a seat within a valve. This closure component is in the shape of a ball that blocks the pipe with a 45-degree turn of the valve handle. Ball valves close tightly and seal the pipe evenly from all sides. Such foolproof sealing is only possible due to the ball's smooth surface area. In this blog, we will explore different ball valve types and the materials that they are manufactured from so that they operate faultlessly.

Ball Valve Types: Flexibility That Matches Every Pipe System

Ball valves come in various designs and configurations to fit the needs of a plumbing system. Hence, no particular ball valve type is better than the other as far as design is concerned since it depends on the nature of the application. 

Full Port Ball Valve for Instant Pressure Release

This design type consists of a large ball with a diameter the size of the pipe's internal diameter. In this design, since the ball is oversized and blocks the pipe from inside when the valve is open, the liquid can flow without any obstruction in the slightest. This is the main benefit full port valve design has over other ball valve designs. 

Full port ball valves function very effectively as recovery valves when a system faces a blockage, and the built-up pressure needs to be released rapidly from an alternate pressure release valve.

Standard Port Valve for Regulated Pressure Release

This kind of valve is used to slow down fluid flow in a pipe system. In contrast to the full port ball valve, standard port valves, the size of the hole within the valve has a smaller diameter than the internal diameter of the pipe that covers the valve. This smaller diameter reduces the rate of flow. Their function in a pipeline system is the same as full port ball valves, as they operate as release valves to reduce pressure in the system. These types of valves are cheaper than other types of valves.

V Port Valve for Fluid Flow Regulation

When it comes to regulating the flow of a liquid while the valve is open, a special kind of valve called a V port valve is utilized. The configuration of this valve comprises a v-shaped ball. When the valve handle is turned to the open position, the low section of the V-shaped ball is opened first. Such valves are constructed from durable materials that can withstand the fast flow of fluids. They cost more than a standard valve and are part of a chemical plant setup, as fluid regulation is essential in chemical processes.

Trunnion Ball Valve for Managing High-Pressure Flow Rate

These ball valves have a unique design that is different from other ball valves. In the Trunnion ball valve, the ball is fixed in place with a pin. In this valve, the ball is segmented rather than being smooth and round. The ball is supported by two shafts on opposite ends that keep it from moving. The shafts ensure that there is no friction between parts of the valve. Trunnion valves are mainly used in pipeline systems that have high fluid pressure. 

Ball Valve Materials To Boost the Efficiency of a Pipeline System

Whether it is a high-pressure or low-pressure pipeline system, ball valves are constantly in contact with fluid or gas and need to be corrosion-resistant and long-lasting. Moreover, industrialists should use durable ball valves as they have less chance of failure. Any type of valve failure can lead to wastage of the fluid and can be costly for the industrial facility. Industry owners should partner with a reliable special material ball valve supplier specializing in providing ball valves made with superior quality materials that match international specifications and global quality standards. Below are some top-notch materials that are used in the manufacture of quality ball valves

1. PVC

Polyvinyl Chloride is a type of plastic that is widely used in ball valve manufacture since it is flexible compared to a metal ball, and the smooth surface of PVC allows the ball to move easily within the ball valve mechanism.

2. Brass and Bronze

Brass is a material made from a mix of copper and zinc. On the other hand, bronze is an alloy, which means it's a blend of copper, zinc, tin, and lead. When it comes to practical use, bronze is the go-to choice for valves in systems with low or medium pressure, especially if you need complex-shaped castings. It's also known for its resistance to both corrosion and wear.

Now, brass is somewhat similar to bronze in terms of how easy it is to work with, but it's a bit more budget-friendly compared to bronze. So, if you're looking for a cost-effective option, brass might be the way to go.

3. Stainless Steel

Now, stainless steel is another material you often see in the making of ball valves. It's quite popular, and that's because it brings some great qualities to the table. For one, it's incredibly tough and has this cool ability to resist corrosion. That's why it's a top pick for a whole bunch of systems, like your regular industrial setups and even those dealing with geochemistry. Stainless steel is just a reliable choice.

Conclusion

The world of ball valves is diverse and adaptable, offering a range of options to suit various industries and applications. From the versatile and widely-used floating ball valves to the high-performance trunnion-mounted ball valves and the innovative V-port and cryogenic ball valves, each type brings unique features and advantages to the table. Whether you need tight shut-off capabilities, high-pressure resistance, or precise control of flow, there's a ball valve type designed to meet your specific requirements. The choice of ball valve type depends on the demands of your system and the objectives of your operations, but with the variety available, you're sure to find the right fit for your needs.