Ball valves are widely used in various industries to control the flow of fluids. Whether it is to start, stop, or regulate the flow of a liquid or gas, a ball valve is always a popular choice. But, with so many types of ball valves available, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your specific application. In this article, we will discuss trunnion mounted ball valves – their design, materials, and applications.
What is a Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve?
A trunnion mounted ball valve is a type of ball valve where the ball is fixed on trunnions and the seats press against the ball. The seats have springs that press them against the ball, and the medium assists the springs in sealing off the ball. This design is beneficial for applications where high-pressure or high-temperature environments are common. Trunnion mounted ball valves are also known for their ability to handle high flow rates and are often used in pipelines that transport large volumes of fluid.
Design and Materials
The trunnion mounted ball valve body can be made of forged or cast materials. The body can consist of two or three pieces, which are called end entry, two-piece body, split body, and three-piece body. Generally, these valves are available in sizes ranging from two inches to very large sizes. However, the cast version is more limited in size and pressure rating.
The available port or bore size can be full or reduced. Reduced port sizes are usually one pipe size smaller than the full port options. Body materials can be almost any, with the most common being forged or cast steel (A216 WCB / WCC, A105, LF2), and stainless steel (CF8M, F316). Similarly, seat materials are available in various options, such as nylon, devlon, teflon (TFE, PTFE, CTFE, etc.), metal (hardened), PEEK, and KEL-F (PCTFE).
Applications
Trunnion mounted ball valves can be found in many applications, but they are most commonly used in the oil and gas industry, petrochemical plants, and pipelines where high-pressure and high-temperature conditions are prevalent. They are also used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in power plants.
Another application of trunnion mounted ball valves is in flow control. With the addition of a cage or drilled pattern in the ball, these valves can be used to regulate the flow of fluids, much like a control valve.
Conclusion
Trunnion mounted ball valves are an excellent choice for applications where high pressures and high temperatures are common. With their design that involves the ball being fixed on trunnions and the seats pressing against the ball, these valves can handle high flow rates and are highly reliable. Their applications can vary from the oil and gas industry to pharmaceuticals to power plants. So, if you need a valve that can handle extreme conditions and reliably control the flow of fluids, a trunnion mounted ball valve may be the perfect solution for you.
Keywords: Orbit Ball Valve, Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve, Valve, Design, Materials, Applications, Flow Control