Ball Valves

Manual ball valves are commonly used to operate shut-off valves, which control water flow and pressure in, for example, plumbing systems applications. Manual ball valves get their name from the metal ball inside the device, which has a hole through the middle.

How do Ball Valves work?

When the valve is open, the hole is aligned with the pipes and permits flow. When it is closed, the hole is rotated perpendicular to the flow, shutting the valve off completely. The valve handle lies flat in alignment with the flow when open, and is perpendicular to it when closed, making for easy visual confirmation of the valve status. The handle can also be set in half-turn or quarter-turn positions if required, reducing the fluid flow level and pressure.

Types of manual ball valves

Manual ball valves are available in several configurations, each designed for specific applications and flow control requirements. When choosing manual ball valves, pay attention to the connection type, in which they can be attached to the shut-off valve. These methods include compression, push-fitting, threaded end, and solvent cement sockets. Also, the seals, handle material and handle configuration options, for example, can the handle be mounted in both directions or is it fixed.

The primary types of manual ball valves include:

• 2-Way Ball Valves: These are the most common type, featuring a single inlet and outlet. They are designed for simple on/off control of fluid flow. When open, the fluid passes straight through; when closed, the flow is completely blocked. These valves are widely used in plumbing, HVAC systems, and general industrial applications where a basic shut-off function is required.
• Full Bore, 2-Way Ball Valves: Similar to standard 2-way valves, full bore valves have an internal diameter that matches the pipe's diameter. This minimises flow restriction, allowing for maximum flow capacity and reducing pressure drop. They are ideal for applications where maintaining consistent flow rates is crucial, such as in high-volume fluid transfer systems.
• 3-Way Ball Valves: These valves feature three ports, allowing for diverting or mixing fluid streams. They can be configured to direct flow from one inlet to either of two outlets, or to mix flows from two inlets into a single outlet. 3-way ball valves are commonly used in applications requiring complex fluid handling, such as in chemical processing, HVAC systems with bypass loops, and industrial automation.

In some models, a ball can be operated with a screwdriver, this allows for installation in confined spaces.

Ball Valve Materials

Manual ball valves are also differentiated by the materials they are made from, each offering unique properties and suitability for different applications. The primary materials include brass, iron, PVC, and stainless steel.

Brass Ball Valve

Brass ball valves are widely used due to their durability and resistance to corrosion in many common applications. They are an ideal choice for:

• Water supply systems: Brass ball valves are commonly found in residential and commercial plumbing due to their compatibility with potable water.
• Gas lines: Their robust construction makes them suitable for natural gas and propane applications.
• Oil and non-corrosive fluid handling: They can handle various oils and other non-aggressive fluids, making them versatile for industrial use.

Stainless Steel Ball Valve

Stainless steel ball valves are preferred in demanding environments where corrosion resistance and temperature tolerance are critical. Their suitability includes:

• Corrosive chemical processing: Stainless steel valves can withstand harsh chemicals, acids, and alkalis.
• High-temperature applications: They maintain their integrity at elevated temperatures, making them suitable for steam and thermal fluid systems.
• Food and beverage industry: Stainless steel ball valves are hygienic and easy to clean, meeting stringent sanitation requirements.
• Marine environments: The corrosion resistance of stainless steel valves is essential in saltwater applications.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Ball Valve

PVC ball valves are chosen for applications where chemical resistance and cost-effectiveness are paramount. They are typically used in:

• Chemical processing: PVC is resistant to a wide range of corrosive chemicals.
• Water treatment: They are suitable for handling water with chemical additives.
• Irrigation systems: Their resistance to moisture and chemicals makes them ideal for agricultural applications.
• Applications where metal contamination is a concern: PVC eliminates the risk of metallic corrosion and contamination of sensitive fluids.

Avoid Common Mistakes When Purchasing Ball Valves

Purchasing the correct ball valve is crucial for efficient and safe operation. Overlooking key details can lead to costly mistakes and system failures. To avoid these issues, keep the following in mind:

• Understand the Application Requirements: Ensure the valve's material and design are compatible with the media (liquid or gas) it will control. For example, using a brass ball valve in a highly corrosive chemical environment can lead to premature failure. Similarly, a ball valve for a water tank may not be suitable for high-pressure gas applications.
• Consider Pressure and Temperature Ratings: Select a valve that can withstand the system's operating pressure and temperature to prevent leaks or mechanical failure. For high-temperature and high-pressure applications a stainless steel ball valve will be more durable.
• Choose the Correct Valve Size: Avoid selecting a valve based solely on pipe size. Consider the flow coefficient (Cv or Kv) to ensure the valve meets the desired flow rate and system performance. An undersized valve can restrict flow, leading to pressure drops and reduced system efficiency. Conversely, an oversized valve may be more expensive and take up unnecessary space.
• Verify End Connections: Ensure the valve's end connections are compatible with your existing piping system (e.g., threaded, welded, flanged) to facilitate proper installation. Mismatched end connections can lead to leaks, costly rework, and system downtime. For example, threaded connections are common for smaller, lower-pressure applications, while flanged connections are typically used for larger, high-pressure systems.

Industrial Applications of Ball Valves

Ball valves are extensively used in plumbing systems for a variety of applications. Ball valves provide a reliable and efficient way to control water flow, isolate sections of the plumbing system, and facilitate maintenance and repairs.

• Chemical Manufacturing: Stainless steel valves are crucial for handling corrosive chemicals, acids, and alkalis, with SS ball valves ideal for ensuring safety and preventing leaks; these valves are used in process lines to precisely control the flow of various chemical solutions, maintaining the integrity of the manufacturing process.
• Food Manufacturing: Stainless ball valves are used in food processing lines due to their hygienic properties and resistance to corrosion, controlling the flow of liquids and gases used in food production and ensuring sanitary conditions are maintained throughout the process.
• Pharmaceuticals: Stainless steel valves ensure purity and prevent contamination in pharmaceutical production, allowing for the precise control of fluid transfer during drug manufacturing and maintaining the stringent cleanliness standards required in the industry.
• Energy & Utilities: Steel ball valves are used in power plants for steam and water control, while ball valves are essential in oil and gas pipelines for regulating flow and pressure; additionally, ball valves are utilised in water treatment and distribution via water tanks, ensuring efficient and safe operations.
• Machinery: Ball valves are used within hydraulic and coolant systems, and ball valve manufacturers produce a wide variety of valves for use in industrial machinery, ensuring efficient operation and fluid control.
• Automotive: Ball valves are used in fuel and coolant systems within automotive manufacturing, providing reliable fluid control in the production of vehicles.

Your Trusted Ball Valve Supplier

RS Australia is a trusted and widely used supplier of ball valves, catering to a diverse range of industries and applications across the country. We offer a comprehensive selection of ball valves to meet your specific needs. Plus, we only offer high-quality products from top brands, including RS PRO, Festo, and Legris, ensuring durability, reliability, and performance.

Choosing RS Australia as your supplier offers numerous benefits. We offer fast delivery of ball valves and related accessories like pneumatic flow valves and solenoid coils. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery page.

Browse through our collection of ball valves today and find the product that suits your needs and budget. We are a trusted supplier of ball valve manufacturers products.