Introduction to Ball Valves

A ball valve is a type of flow control device that uses a hollow, perforated, and pivoting ball to regulate the flow of liquids or gases. It is widely used in various industrial applications due to its durability, reliability, and ease of operation.

How It Works

• The valve is open when the hole in the ball aligns with the flow path.
• It closes when the ball is rotated 90°, blocking the flow.
• The handle typically indicates the valve’s status: aligned with the pipe when open, perpendicular when closed.

Key Advantages

• Quick shutoff with a simple quarter-turn.
• Durable: Performs well over many cycles and long periods of disuse.
• High pressure and temperature tolerance: Up to 15,000 psi and 750°F (400°C).
• Low maintenance and easy to repair (especially in multi-piece designs).

Limitations

• Not ideal for throttling applications due to limited flow control precision.

Can trap fluid in the ball cavity when closed, which may freeze and cause damage in cold climates (unless freeze-tolerant designs are used).