Ball valves are a type of quarter-turn valve that use a hollow, perforated ball to control flow through a pipe or other passage. The ball has a hole through the middle, which allows fluid to pass through when it is aligned with the flow path of the pipe. When the ball is rotated 90 degrees, the hole becomes perpendicular to the flow path, stopping the flow.
Ball valves are often used in industrial applications because they are durable and reliable. They are commonly used to control flow in pipelines for water, gas, and other fluids. There are several different types of ball valves, including full-port ball valves, standard port ball valves, and reduced port ball valves. Each type has a different size of opening in the ball, which affects the flow rate and pressure drop.
The body material of a ball valve can vary depending on the application and the type of fluid being controlled. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, carbon steel, and PVC. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
The connection standards for ball valves also vary depending on the application. Some common standards include:
- Threaded connections: These are often used for smaller ball valves and are threaded onto the pipe.
- Flanged connections: These are used for larger ball valves and involve bolting the valve to a flange on the pipe.
- Welded connections: These are used for high-pressure applications and involve welding the valve directly to the pipe.
- Tri-clamp connections: These are often used in the food and beverage industry and involve connecting the valve to the pipe using a tri-clamp fitting.
It is important to choose the appropriate body material and connection standard for a ball valve based on the specific application and fluid being controlled. This will help ensure optimal performance and durability.