What is a ball valve and how is it used?
When working with waterworks or oil transportation systems, it’s safe to say that many people are familiar with the name “ball valve.” This is because it’s a device that helps the system function smoothly and efficiently. But for those who don’t know it or don’t know how important or necessary this piece of equipment is in the system, in this article we’ll share some information about ball valves.
What is a ball valve ?
A ball valve is a type of valve used to control the flow of liquids or gases within a pipe system. It uses a round ball with a hole in the center to open and close the flow path. When the ball rotates in a direction where the hole aligns with the pipe line, liquid can flow through. And when the ball is rotated so that the hole is perpendicular to the pipe, the flow of liquid can be blocked.
Ball valves are therefore very popular equipment due to their simple structure, ease of use, rapid opening and closing of flow, and excellent sealing performance, effectively preventing leakage.
Types of ball valves
Ball valves can be divided into several types based on their design and application. Therefore, their selection must be appropriate for the type. They can be divided into five types as follows:
- Two-Way Ball Valve
Ball valves have only two inlet and outlet ports. They are used to directly open and close the flow of liquids. They are found in common pipe systems such as water, air, and oil systems.
- Three-Way Ball Valve
Ball valve with 3 channels for controlling the direction of liquids. Can be used to change the flow path. Suitable for applications that require switching or mixing liquids from multiple sources.
- Full Port Ball Valve
Ball valves have a bore inside the ball equal to the diameter of the pipe, resulting in no pressure loss. They are generally suitable for applications requiring high flow rates.
- Reduced Port Ball Valve
This type of ball valve has a bore inside the ball that is smaller than the pipe, resulting in little pressure loss. It is commonly used in systems where full flow is not required.
- Actuated Ball Valve
Ball valves that are controlled by electric or pneumatic motors for opening and closing are used in automatic systems that require precise control.
How to use a ball valve
Because the ball valve is designed to be used in every type of operation, it is an easy-to-use valve that can quickly open and close the flow of liquid. Generally, the method of use is as follows:
- Opening a ball valve : Turn the handle or lever along the pipe. The ball inside rotates so that the center hole aligns with the pipe, allowing fluid to flow through.
- Closing the ball valve : Turn the handle or lever perpendicular to the pipe line. The ball blocks the flow of fluid, preventing its passage.
- Flow Control : Some systems allow the ball to be positioned partially open to control the flow rate of the liquid.
Precautions for using ball valves
Although this valve is easy to use and designed to suit a wide variety of applications, there are some precautions to keep in mind:
- It should not be used in systems that require detailed flow control, such as systems that require precise flow volume control. In this case, another type of valve, such as a Globe Valve, should be used.
- Not suitable for liquids with solid particles or high viscosity liquids as it may cause ball jamming.
- The material of the ball valve should be selected to suit the type of fluid, such as stainless steel for chemicals or brass for general water systems.
Ball valves are easy-to-use, fast-opening, and durable fluid flow control devices. Choosing the right ball valve for the type of fluid, piping system, and operating environment will increase efficiency and extend the life of the piping system. However, if you’re looking for quality, standardized ball valves or butterfly valves suitable for plumbing and industrial applications, we recommend purchasing from Asia-Pacifics Supply, an importer and distributor of leading water valve brands with over 29 years of experience. We offer a comprehensive range of services to meet all your needs.