According to MarketsandMarkets, the Ball Valves Industry will be worth $16.2 Billion by 2027. In their report, it states that this is due to several different factors coming together to create high growth opportunities. Some of these factors include the application of 3D printing technology, Smart technology, and the Industrial Internet of Things (also known as IIoT).
When we take the time to think about it, the numbers make sense. Due to the fact that there are different types of ball valves, they can be used across several industries. From food and beverage to cosmetics. Pharmaceuticals to various modes of transportation, ball valves are probably used more often than we initially think. The following will go over a few of the most common ball valves that make up a multi-billion dollar industry.
What is a Ball Valve?
To begin, let’s start with the basics. What is a ball valve? A ball valve is a type of shut-off valve that controls the flow of a liquid (or a gas) by means of a rotary ball. By rotating the ball 90 degrees around its axis, the medium can either flow through, or is blocked.
Ball valves are often compared to gate valves, due to their design of offering an “all-or-nothing” water flow. According to The Balance,
“Internally, these valves have a ball with a hole in the middle, which is connected to a lever-type outer handle. When the handle is parallel to the water supply pipe, the valve is open; when it is perpendicular, the valve is closed. This handle serves as a handy visual aid so you know at a glance whether the water is on or off.”
Popular Ball Valves
We now have a basic idea of what ball valves are. Next, let’s discuss a few of the more popular types of ball valves.
Full Port
As the name suggests, a full port ball valve offers no reduction in flow as it travels through the port. It can also be called a full bore valve. It’s quite self-explanatory, isn’t it?
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t have more questions about full ports. It’s always a great idea to write down any questions you may have as you learn. This way, if you decide to consult professionals, you’ll have notes on what you may need some clarification on. Many times, professionals are looking to find people willing to talk about what they know so much about. It can make their job more fun!
Standard Port
Also known as a threaded port, this is one of the more popular types of valves. This is due to them having a large range of operations when it comes to both temperature and pressure. It is usually less expensive, but this may be due to it having a smaller ball and smaller port. Therefore, the flow through the valve is one pipe size smaller than the valve’s actual pipe size. Because of this, there is a restricted flow.
V-Port
As you may have guessed, a v-port ball valve has either a V-shaped ball or a V-shaped seat. This allows the opening to be used in a more controlled manner. While having the V shape offers advantages, it also requires a more sturdy construction. Without such a construction, the higher velocity of fluid could potentially damage the valve.
Other forms of valves include:
- Trunnion Ball Valves: Their design is usually used for larger and/or higher pressure. They have mechanical means of anchoring the ball at the top and the bottom.
- Butterfly Valves: These are sometimes chosen over ball valves due to their lower cost. This doesn’t mean that they should the automatic choice, though! It’s best to know what’s best for your unique situation before making a decision.
- Actuated Valves: The mechanism used for opening and closing valves; it may be hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric.
These are only 3 types of valves out of a long list of others. To get an idea of a few more types of valves, you can read 7 Valves Used in Residential Plumbing
Ball Valve Connections
When discussing ball valves, it would be difficult not to at least mention ball valve connections. The most common types of ball valve connections include flanged, welded, true union, tri-clamp, and threaded. And, believe it or not, they have male or female connectors. However, we don’t want to overwhelm you with information; we will leave this topic for another day.
When we consider:
1) The range of ball valves available, and
2) Their different uses
It makes sense that their market value will continue to rise. Has this article inspired you? Do you have a few questions on the matter? Give the professionals at CL Valve a call!
CL Valve Process Solutions has a team that would be happy to help you.
Do you have a project in mind and wish to get an idea of what’s in store for you? Or do you simply have a few questions? Nothing is too big, or too small for their team.
If calling them is a bigger step than you wish to be making at this time, that’s okay too. You can simply request a quote to start with.
Do you have concerns related to valves, mixers, filtration, or heat exchangers? CL Valve Process Solutions can help you with it all, one step at a time.
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