How to Compare Floating Ball vs Trunnion Mounted Valve?

04 Oct.,2024

 

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Understanding Floating Ball Valves

Floating ball valves are designed with a ball that "floats" within the valve body. In operation, when the valve is closed, the pressure from the upstream side of the valve pushes the ball against the downstream seat, creating a tight seal. This mechanism allows for a simple design with minimal parts, making maintenance straightforward. The primary advantage of a floating ball valve is its ability to handle high flow rates and low-pressure applications. These types of valves excel in applications where the medium being controlled is not highly viscous. Additionally, floating ball valves offer quick quarter-turn operation, allowing for ease of use.However, floating ball valves have limitations. They are generally not suited for high-pressure applications, as excessive pressure can lead to deformation of the ball and subsequent failure to seal properly. Their design also may not be suitable for applications where thermal expansion or contraction is a factor.

Exploring Trunnion Mounted Valves

Trunnion mounted valves, in contrast, utilize a different design mechanism. In these valves, the ball is supported by trunnions (horizontal shafts) at the top and bottom. This allows the ball to remain in a fixed position, regardless of upstream pressure. As a result, trunnion mounted valves can handle significantly higher pressures and larger pipe sizes than their floating counterparts.These valves are particularly beneficial for applications that involve high-pressure systems, such as oil and gas pipelines. The trunnion design provides enhanced sealing capabilities, reducing the risk of leakage even under extreme conditions. Additionally, the robustness of trunnion mounted valves means they can handle slurries and viscous media more effectively.However, the complexity of the design can lead to increased costs and maintenance requirements. The additional components in a trunnion mounted valve can also make them less compact, taking up more space than a floating ball valve.

Key Comparisons

When comparing floating ball valves to trunnion mounted valves, several factors should be considered:1. **Pressure and Size Capabilities**: Floating ball valves are generally limited to lower pressures and smaller sizes. In contrast, trunnion mounted valves can manage higher pressure and larger flow applications.2. **Sealing Mechanism**: The sealing capability differs significantly. Floating ball valves rely on the pressure of the media to create a seal, while trunnion mounted valves maintain a fixed position, providing more consistent sealing under varying pressure conditions.3. **Maintenance and Cost**: Floating ball valves are easy to maintain and are often less expensive due to their simpler design. Trunnion mounted valves, while robust, may incur higher costs and maintenance due to their complexity.4. **Application Suitability**: Choose floating ball valves for general-purpose applications with lower flow rates and pressure. Opt for trunnion mounted valves in high-pressure industrial environments or where the handling of viscous fluids is required.5. **Operation and Control**: Both types of valves offer quick operation, but floating ball valves are more suited for on-off applications, while trunnion mounted valves can provide better control in throttling applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between floating ball and trunnion mounted valves ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your application. Factors such as pressure, flow rate, cost, and material compatibility will guide your decision. Always consult with a knowledgeable supplier or engineer when determining which valve type is right for your needs. For further insights and expert guidance, feel free to contact us.

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