In our last blog, we took a closer look at butterfly valves and how DynaQuip manufactures and delivers these proven resources for applications in the pharmaceutical, chemical, food, agriculture, water, and wastewater industries. Now let’s explore another popular fluid control solution that many of our clients rely on: ball valves – what they are, how they operate, where they are used, and valve options – and learn more about why ball valves are a versatile, durable, and widely utilized choice for professionals in fluid- and gas-control industries.
What is a ball valve and how does it work?
Named for the rotary sphere that exists within the valve, ball valves control the flow of liquids and gases. The ball, which has a hole bored in its center, can be rotated a quarter turn (90 degrees) into the open position to allow for the flow of these liquids and gases and turned back to its original position to effectively prevent this flow of materials.
What industries use ball valves?
Ball valves are typically a great fit in the oil and natural gas industries due to their easy-to-operate, leak-proof, and durable characteristics. In addition, they can be found in manufacturing and chemical storage applications. They can also be used in some residential environments and are especially useful for low-flow situations.
Why are ball valves a popular choice for fluid and gas flow control?
Ball valves are recognized for their long-wearing durability and provide reliable sealing benefits over their long life spans. While ball valves are limited in flow rate capabilities that allow the operator to control the speed and volume of fluid or gas outtake or intake, they are superior in their sealing abilities and are known for being a proven shutoff valve.
What types of manual ball valves does DynaQuip manufacture?
DynaQuip specializes in three types of manual ball valves:
- Carbon steel ball valves – These options range from economy valves for low-pressure general applications, medium-pressure applications for specific industry use to high-pressure ball valves that are suitable for high-pressure hydraulic applications. For applications that need to divert flow, our 3-way or 4-way ball valves are the ideal solution. The 3-way ball valve series features an L-ball pattern and is designed for high-pressure applications. For high-pressure hydraulic cylinder control, the 4-way ball valve series has a double-L ball pattern. Both the 3-way and 4-way ball valves are suitable for use with hydraulic oils, water/oil emulsion, air, glycol and gasoline.
- Stainless steel ball valves – These valves are designed for the flow control processes of chemical, petroleum and general chemical applications, as well as food industry processes. Industry leading companies in manufacturing, agricultural and production rely on our rugged stainless steel valves for superior performance.
- Brass/bronze ball valves – Designed to provide years of rugged durability at a superior economical advantage, these valves are built for commercial and general industrial applications and media and offer many more years of performance over lightweight “throwaway” valves.
- Lead-free brass ball valves – Created for residential applications, these valves feature a hot-forged, sand-blasted and unplated lead-free brass body, and a chrome-plated, lead-free ball for longer life. A dual, silicone-free sealing system allows the valve to be operated in either direction, making installation easier.
What types of automated ball valves does DynaQuip manufacture?
DynaQuip offers two types of automated ball valves:
- DynaMatic Series electric automated ball valves – These valves offer convenient and economical assemblies that cover a wide range of flow control applications. Our assemblies are available in several valve materials, configurations, and voltages to suit specific automation needs.
- DynaMatic Series pneumatic automated ball valves – All air-actuated DynaMatic assemblies use our HP series pneumatic actuators available in both double acting (air/air) and spring return (air/spring). The spring return models can be ordered in either the fail closed or fail open configuration. Optional direct mounted pilot solenoid valves reduce response time and allow for efficient operation. Other common assembly options include valve position limit switches, pneumatic or electro-pneumatic positioners and speed controls.
How DynaQuip Ball Valves Helped to Create a Safer, More Productive Work Environment
An end user, who was using traditional solenoid valves for their sodium hydroxide applications, was seeking a better, longer-lasting solution. The valves they were using leaked prematurely (a caustic media problem), and often needed to be updated, resulting in costly replacement parts, lost production time, and a risk to workers who were exposed to sodium hydroxide. While the client initially thought that they may benefit from a two-piece stainless-steel valve with a pneumatic actuator, upon further inspection, we recommended (and provided) a three-piece ball valve with TFM (a second-generation modified polytetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE)) seats and a special stem seal that offers high-performance and longevity. Most importantly, this ball-valve solution now effectively protects workers from sodium hydroxide leaks, helping to create a safer, more productive environment.
When the pressure is on, DynaQuip delivers.
DynaQuip ball valves are just one example of the reliable and proven fluid control solutions we provide to our valued clients. DynaQuip works where you work and we’re always ready to listen to your challenges, assess your needs and partner with you to deliver lasting excellence and performance. For more information, explore our website or feel free to contact us at 800-545-3636. We’re always up to the challenge.