Full Port Ball Valve: Also known as a full bore ball valve, it has a larger ball and a larger bore size, allowing for maximum flow capacity with minimal flow restriction. It is commonly used when low flow resistance and high flow rates are required.
Standard Port Ball Valve: Also referred to as a reduced bore ball valve, it has a smaller ball and a reduced bore size compared to a full port ball valve. This type of valve can handle moderate flow rates and is often used in applications where cost and space considerations are important.
V-port Ball Valve: This type of ball valve has a V-shaped or contoured ball that creates a V-shaped flow path when open. It provides more precise control over the flow rate and is commonly used in applications that require accurate flow modulation, such as throttling or control applications.
Three-Way Ball Valve: A three-way ball valve has three ports and a T-shaped or L-shaped ball with multiple flow paths. It allows for the diversion or mixing of fluid flow between different ports, making it suitable for applications requiring flow direction control or the blending of two different fluids.
Trunnion Ball Valve: In a trunnion ball valve, the ball is supported by trunnion bearings or stems at the top and bottom. This design provides increased stability, durability, and sealing performance, making it suitable for high-pressure or large-diameter applications.
Floating Ball Valve: In a floating ball valve, the ball is not fixed or supported by trunnions but instead floats between the seats. The sealing force is generated by the pressure of the fluid. This type of valve is commonly used in lower pressure applications and offers ease of operation and cost-effectiveness.
Metal-seated Ball Valve: Metal-seated ball valves have a ball and seat made of metal, providing high durability and resistance to extreme temperatures, corrosive fluids, and abrasive particles. They are suitable for demanding applications such as high-temperature, high-pressure, or severe service environments.
Soft-seated Ball Valve: Soft-seated ball valves have a ball and seat made of elastomeric materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or Teflon, which provide excellent sealing properties. They are commonly used in applications where bubble-tight shutoff and low torque operation are required.