Ball Valves Basics

Examine ball valves and their uses

By Marjorie Gilbert

If one was to trace the history of the ball valve or ball check valves, one would have to go back as far as 1871. Today, due to the reliance of the petroleum, electric, paper and other industries, it seems inconceivable that it would have take so long for the ball valve to be so widely used.

The ball valve is, in the simplest terms, a valve with a ball placed inside it. When the passage is unobstructed by the ball inside the valve, then fluid can pass through. Ball valves can be made of various materials, so it is possible to purchase stainless steel ball valves, brass ball valves, titanium ball valves, bronze ball valves and even plastic ball valves. Use these ball valves basics to gather the ball valve information you need.

1. Use the full port ball valve to allow the most flow.

2. Choose the standard port ball valve for a somewhat restricted flow.

3. Pick the restricted port ball valve for the most restricted flow.

4. Rely on "v" flow ball valves for a more controllable flow.

Allow unobstructed flow with full port ball valves

Full port valves allow for the passage of large quantities of fluid. Because of large hole in the ball, the full port ball valve creates a minimal drop in pressure, thus creating less risk of "pigging" or blocking of the lines. Full port ball valves can be made of various materials, such as bronze, brass, cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel and titanium. The stainless steel ball valve is perhaps one of the most popular.
Try: Manufacturers of full flow ball valves are SVF Flow Controls and Conbraco Industries. Both manufacturers supply detailed ball valve technical information on their sites. Ball valve prices are available from the sales department.

Pick standard port ball valves for a little more control

The slightly smaller hole in the ball allows for a little restriction in the volume. The materials of the standard flow ball valves are similar to the full flow ball valves in that they are also made of bronze, stainless, and more. The standard flow ball valve can be either welded or flanged or both, and have a handle for "on" or "off" control. The standard flow ball valve can also be internally threaded.
Try: Specialty Manufacturing Company and KZCO are two manufacturers of the standard port ball valve.

Let restricted port ball valves restrict the volume even more

The restricted port ball valve has an even smaller hole in the ball--a full size smaller than the pipe itself--which restrict the flow even more. These ball valves offer more control, and include the same materials as the full bore and standard bore ball valves. The ball valves withstand the greater pressure created by the restricted flow.
Try: J Flow Controls is one of the manufacturers of these valves and Conval is another.

Get more control with "v" flow ball valves

These ball valves offer the most control. It is possible to have the "v" notch of the ports or holes in the ball at 30, 60 or 90 degrees. These ball valves, like other ball valves, can automate. The manual ball valve comes with a handle. The "v" notch ball valve can be either flanged, or comprised of three pieces. Both perform well under the pressure generated, as well as can withstand nearly 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
Try: A-T Controls and Alloy Valves and Control offer these ball valves. These manufacturers, as well as the others listed above, are able to modify the ball valve to suit your company's needs.

The ball valve price will vary from company to company. It is possible to find basic ball valves at any building supply store. To inquire after discounts or bulk prices, it's best to contact the sales department who will be able with the company valve purchase.