A ball valve is a fast-acting rotary valve with a very tight shut-off. When it is completely open, it creates the least amount of resistance or turbulence to flow. A standard ball valve conforms to ASME face-to-face dimensions, making this valve type easy to modify and replace. A ball valve is classified as a high-recovery valve because of its high flow capacity and low-pressure drop.
The ball valveâ??s stem rotates a disc or plug, also known as a ball with a center opening. This opening can be adjusted to be completely open or closed. It is not ideal for throttling flow because abrasion may cause the ball to wear faster. This could result in leakage when the ball valve is closed. However, in some cases, a ball valve with diagnostic features may be used for throttling.
A ball valve is used in a variety of industrial applications due to its leak-proof sealing. Oil and gas industries, pulp and paper industries, and water and wastewater treatment facilities are examples. It is also widely used in high-temperature chemical applications involving oxygen, dry chlorine, and hydrofluoric acid.
