Ball valves feature a hollow, rotating ball that allows flow when aligned with the pipeline and blocks it when turned 90 degrees. The handle’s position provides a clear visual cue of whether the valve is open or closed.
Ball valves are manufactured from a variety of materials to suit different applications, environments, and media types.
Yes, ball valves can be used for high-pressure applications, provided they are specifically designed and rated for such conditions.
Ball valves are generally low maintenance. Three-piece designs are preferred where service or cleaning may be needed, as they allow in-line maintenance.
Most ball valves are bidirectional and allow flow in both directions. However, some designs may be unidirectional depending on the seat and body configuration.
Ball valves have a long service life, especially in clean systems. With minimal moving parts and a durable seal, they often outlast other valve types when used correctly.
Ball valves are used across many sectors, including oil & gas, chemical processing, water treatment, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and HVAC systems.
Yes, ball valves can be automated — and they often are in industrial and commercial systems where remote control or frequent operation is required.
Ball valves are generally not recommended for throttling, especially in precise flow control applications. While they can be used to restrict flow to some extent, their design is primarily intended for on/off control.
Yes, most standard ball valves are bidirectional, meaning they can control flow in either direction. However, some designs (like those with certain seat arrangements or V-port configurations) may have a preferred flow direction — always check the manufacturer's specifications.
Ball valves come in various types, including two-piece, three-piece, flanged, full bore, reduced bore, and three-way or multi-port configurations. Each type suits different applications, from simple shut-off to complex flow diversion.
The handle position indicates the valve’s status: when the handle is aligned with the pipe, the valve is open; when it's perpendicular, the valve is closed. This makes ball valves easy to operate and visually inspect.