What is a Floating Ball Valve?
A floating ball valve is a type of quarter-turn valve that regulates the flow of liquids or gases by using a perforated ball. The ball has a hole in it, and when it aligns with the pipe or tube, the medium flows through. When the handle is turned, the ball rotates and blocks the flow. A floating ball valve gets its name from the fact that the ball floats in the medium, allowing the seat to move freely.
Features of a Floating Ball Valve
Floating ball valves have several features. Firstly, they have a simple structure, which makes them easy to manufacture and maintain. Secondly, they are leak-proof because the ball blocks the flow even when there is a differential pressure. Thirdly, they are self-cleaning because the ball rotates and wipes the seat clean of debris.
Types of Floating Ball Valve
There are several types of floating ball valves categorised based on their design, material, application or end connection. The various floating ball valve types include flanged, welded and threaded ends in Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel and Duplex Steel.
Carbon Steel Floating Ball Valve
Carbon Steel is a popular material used for floating ball valves because of its durability and strength. The valve can withstand high temperatures and pressures without undergoing deformation or cracking. They are widely used in the oil and gas industry, chemical processing, power generation, and other harsh environments.
API Floating Ball Valve
API Floating Ball Valve refers to the American Petroleum Institute (API) standards and guidelines for the design, manufacture and testing of valves used in the oil and gas industry. The API Floating Ball Valve has specifications that ensure they meet the demands of the industry.
For instance, API 6D is a standard design specification for pipeline valves, while ASME B16.34 is a standard material specification. These standards ensure that the valve can handle extreme pressure and temperatures, and are highly resistant to corrosion, abrasion or other forms of damage caused by the environment.
Conclusion
A Floating Ball Valve is an essential element in modern industrial processes, as it plays a critical role in regulating the flow of liquids and gases. Carbon Steel Floating Ball Valve, and API Floating Ball Valve, in particular, have become popular in the oil and gas industry, thanks to their ability to withstand corrosive environments and high pressure and temperatures.
If you require a valve that meets the API 6D and ASME B16.34 standards, our Floating Ball Valve could be the ideal solution. We can provide you with a range of options that will suit your specific requirements. Contact us today for more information about our range of floating ball valves.