Ball valve manufacturers produce valves that are controlled by the position of a free-floating ball that moves in response to fluid or mechanical pressure. A ball valve opens by turning a handle attached to a ball inside the valve. These durable valves provide a tight shut-off and good flow control.
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Ball Valve Manufacturers
Ball valve manufacturers make three general types of ball valves: full port, standard port and reduced port. Some of the most common variations of ball valves include 3-way ball valves, floating ball valves, flanged ball valves and ball check valves. Some valves are inexpensive and throw-away, while others are more complicated, expensive and repairable. The body of the ball valve may be constructed of metal, brass, stainless steel, cast iron, ceramic or plastic. The ball can also be chrome plated for more durability. Some ball valves are manufactured with an actuator that may be pneumatically or motor operated. These valves are used either for on or off flow control. Along with being easy to monitor, ball valves are also easy to clean and repair; as the ball rotates, the seat performs a self-wiping action that prevents any buildup.
Advances in ball valve design and materials have significantly increased their popularity. New valve designs have enabled ball valves to be used in high-vacuum situations. Ball valves can be used for isolation of systems, regulation of some types of low flow and backflow prevention, but only with a swing check component. They can handle high pressure and large volumes of liquids, gases and suspended solids (slurries). Ball valves are manufactured for industrial purposes because they can withstand pressures of up to ten thousand psi and temperatures up to 200° Celsius. Depending on the application, specific materials, sizes and models of ball valves will be more appropriate than others. For example ball check valves are better for plumbing and piping systems, while 3-way ball valves are better for suspended solids.
