Floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves are two common types of ball valves used in various industries. The main difference between them lies in the way the ball is supported and the level of pressure they can handle.
Floating ball valves have a simple design where the ball is held in place by pressure from the fluid flowing through the valve. The ball is free to move or float, which allows it to seal against the valve seat under the pressure of the fluid. This design is suitable for low to medium-pressure applications. However, floating ball valves may experience some leakage, especially under high-pressure conditions.
Trunnion ball valves, on the other hand, have additional mechanical support for the ball. They have a fixed or stationary ball that is held in place by trunnions, which are shaft-like extensions attached to the ball. These trunnions provide additional stability and prevent the ball from moving or floating. The sealing force between the ball and the valve seat in trunnion ball valves is achieved by the pressure of the fluid acting on the upstream and downstream sides of the ball. This design allows trunnion ball valves to handle high-pressure applications more effectively and provides better sealing performance compared to floating ball valves.One major advantage of trunnion ball valves is their ability to handle higher pressure ratings. The mechanical support provided by the trunnions makes them more suitable for high-pressure applications, where maintaining a tight seal and preventing leakage is crucial. Trunnion ball valves can handle pressures ranging from a few hundred psi up to several thousand psi, depending on the design and materials used.
Another difference between floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves is their size range. Floating ball valves are generally available in smaller sizes, typically up to a few inches in diameter. They are commonly used in applications where flow control and tight shut-off are required in smaller pipelines. Trunnion ball valves, on the other hand, are available in a wider size range, ranging from a few inches to several feet in diameter. They are often used in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation, where larger pipelines and higher flow rates are common.
In terms of cost, floating ball valves tend to be less expensive compared to trunnion ball valves, mainly due to their simpler design. However, the overall cost can vary depending on factors such as size, materials, pressure ratings, and additional features required.
In summary, the main differences between floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves lie in their support and pressure handling capabilities. Floating ball valves have a simple design and rely on the pressure of the fluid to seal, making them suitable for low to medium-pressure applications. Trunnion ball valves have mechanical support provided by trunnions, allowing them to handle higher pressures and provide better sealing performance. They are often used in larger pipelines and industries where high-pressure applications are common.
Post time: Oct-23-2023