Ball Valves

Keen to see our full product listing? Along with our extensive collection of premium valves, we also stock a range of quality process solutions — view our full product range today. Need some help finding the best ball valves online for your needs? No problem. Simply get in touch with our expert team — we’d be more than happy to help.

FAQs

What is a ball valve?

A ball valve is a type of stop valve that operates using an on/off function to control the flow of either a gas or liquid. These valves provide a high volume flow, and a complete shut-off, commonly using a simple quarter-turn (90 degrees) operation. It is easy to see whether the valve is open or closed simply by viewing the positioning of the operating handle. The ball valve has a hollow ball sitting in the cavity of the valve, which controls the flow of the liquid or gas.

There are many different designs and types of ball valves to suit different applications, but basically, any type of valve that uses a “ball” in this way for its operation is considered a ball valve.

How does a ball valve work?

The way in which a ball valve works ultimately depends on the specific type of ball valve. However, all ball valves share the common feature of a ball rotating on its axis to either open or close (block) ports, hence controlling the liquid or gas flow. The most common way this is achieved is via a 90 degree (quarter-turn) operation.

Full port ball valves allow for a completely unrestricted flow, whereas standard and reduced port valves have more restricted flow. Ball valves can be equipped with different driving devices such as pneumatic, hydraulic and electric actuators,  depending on the application of the valve.

How long will my ball valve last?

Generally speaking, ball valves are very durable. They can be made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, bronze, brass and PVC. Their longevity, however, ultimately depends on a range of factors, including the design of the valve, its environment, its case, how many times it has cycled, and importantly, the media.

For example, ball valves that are in a clean environment with non-abrasive media and low or irregular cycles will last longer than those that do not fall into these categories. These valves should last for several years, or potentially decades. Ball valves in high-pressure settings will need to be serviced or replaced more frequently.

How do I install a ball valve?

The way in which ball valves are installed ultimately depends on the type and design of the valve. In a regular two-way ball valve design (a shut-off valve with one straight hole through which gas or liquid passes), the installation process is reasonably straightforward, with both ends just needing to be connected — this can be with whichever type of end connection the valve is built to.

If you’d like to learn more about the installation of valves, at Winnellie Valve & Process we offer a detailed valve training program, suitable for anyone keen to learn about valves — including ball valves — and their associated equipment.

What are the benefits of a ball valve?

A ball valve has many benefits, including:

• Durability — Ball valves can last for many years, even when not in operation for long periods of time.
• Easy operation — The simple, basic on/off function from fully open to fully closed is ideal for quickly and conveniently controlling the flow of liquids and gases.
• Versatility — With their ability to handle many types of gases and liquids at varying temperatures and pressures, ball valves are an extremely versatile option for a large range of applications.
• Efficiency — Ball valves have an extremely low fluid resistance.
• Affordability – Ball valves are often considerably more affordable than other types of valves used for similar jobs.