What are the advantages of trunnion mounted ball valve?

When selecting valves for industrial applications, particularly those involving high-pressure and high-flow scenarios, understanding the differences between trunnion-mounted ball valves and floating ball valves is crucial. Both types offer unique advantages and are suitable for different applications depending on their design and operational characteristics. This comparative analysis delves into the features, benefits, and limitations of trunnion-mounted and floating ball valves, helping you make an informed choice for your specific needs.

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Overview of Ball Valves

Ball valves are widely used in various industries due to their simple design and reliable performance. They control the flow of fluids by rotating a ball with a hole through its centre, which aligns with the pipe for open flow or is perpendicular to a closed flow. The primary distinction between trunnion-mounted and floating ball valves lies in their internal mechanism and the way they handle pressure.

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves

Design and Operation

Trunnion-mounted ball valves are designed with a ball supported by trunnions, essentially pins or shafts mounted on the valve body. These trunnions support the ball in place and help to manage the forces acting on the ball during operation. This design makes trunnion-mounted ball valves particularly suitable for high-pressure applications.

Key Features:

• Fixed Ball:

  The ball is fixed to the trunnions, which means it does not move or shift under pressure. This design reduces the risk of valve leakage and ensures a reliable seal.

• Heavy-Duty Design:

  Trunnion-mounted ball valves are built to withstand high pressure and large flow rates, making them ideal for demanding industrial applications.

• Reduced Operating Torque:

  Since the ball is supported by trunnions, the torque required to operate the valve is reduced, allowing for smoother operation.

• Multiple Seat Configurations:

  Trunnion-mounted ball valves can be designed with multiple seat configurations, including double or redundant seats, which enhance sealing performance and safety.

Applications

Trunnion-mounted ball valves are commonly used in industries that require robust and reliable valve solutions for high-pressure and high-flow conditions. Some typical applications include:

• Oil and Gas:

  Handling high-pressure hydrocarbons and gases in upstream and downstream operations.

• Chemical Processing:

  Managing corrosive and high-pressure chemicals.

• Power Generation:

  Controlling steam and high-pressure fluids in power plants.

• Water Treatment:

  Regulating high-flow water and wastewater systems.

Advantages

• High-Pressure Handling:

  The trunnion design enables the valve to handle high pressure without excessive torque, making it suitable for critical applications.

• Improved Seal Integrity:

  Fixed ball and seat design ensures excellent sealing performance, reducing the risk of leaks.

• Durability:

  Designed to withstand harsh operating conditions and offer a long service life.

  Limitations

• Cost:

  Trunnion-mounted ball valves are generally more expensive due to their complex design and materials.

Size and Weight: These valves can be larger and heavier than floating ball valves, which may be a consideration in space-constrained applications.

Floating Ball Valves

Design and Operation

Floating ball valves, on the other hand, use a different design approach where the ball is not fixed but is free to move slightly. The ball is held in place by the pressure of the fluid acting on the ball, which helps to create a seal against the valve seat. The seats in floating ball valves are typically softer and are designed to deform slightly to ensure a tight seal.

 

Key Features:

• Floating Ball:

  The ball is not fixed and can move slightly to ensure a tight seal against the seats when the valve is closed.

• Simpler Design:

  Floating ball valves have a simpler construction compared to trunnion-mounted valves, which can result in lower costs.

• Flexible Operation:

  The ball's movement helps to compensate for minor misalignments and allows for a tight seal under moderate pressure conditions.

• Seat Design:

  Floating ball valves often use elastomeric or soft seats that deform to create a seal.

 

Applications

Floating ball valves are suitable for a wide range of applications where pressure and flow conditions are moderate. They are commonly used in:

 

• HVAC Systems:

  Regulating fluid flow in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

• Water Distribution:

  Managing water flow in municipal and industrial water systems.

• Food and Beverage:

  Handling non-corrosive liquids and gases in food processing and beverage production.

• General Industrial Use:

  Providing reliable flow control in various industrial processes.

 

Advantages

Cost-Effective: Floating ball valves generally have a lower initial cost compared to trunnion mounted ball valves.

Simplicity: The simpler design makes these valves easier to maintain and repair.

Lightweight: They are usually smaller and lighter, making them suitable for applications with space constraints.

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Limitations

• Pressure Limitations:

  Floating ball valves are not ideal for high-pressure applications due to the potential for higher operating torque and sealing challenges.

Seal Reliability: The seal relies on the ball's ability to float and maintain contact with the seats, which can be less reliable under extreme conditions.

Comparative Analysis

Pressure and Flow Handling

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves: These valves excel in high-pressure and high-flow applications due to their robust design and the support provided by the trunnions. They are ideal for critical applications where pressure and flow conditions exceed the capabilities of floating ball valves.

Floating Ball Valves: Suitable for moderate pressure and flow conditions, floating ball valves provide reliable performance in standard applications. They are not recommended for extreme pressure or flow scenarios.

Sealing Performance

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves: With a fixed ball and multiple seat configurations, trunnion-mounted valves offer superior sealing performance and are less prone to leakage, making them ideal for critical and hazardous applications.

Floating Ball Valves: The floating ball design relies on the pressure of the fluid to maintain a seal. While effective in many applications, this design may be less reliable under high-pressure conditions compared to trunnion mounted valves.

Cost and Complexity

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves: Generally more expensive due to their complex design and robust construction. They offer high durability and performance, justifying their higher cost in demanding applications.

Floating Ball Valves: Typically more cost-effective with a simpler design, making them suitable for applications with budget constraints or less demanding conditions.

Maintenance and Operation

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves: These require less operating torque and are designed to handle harsh conditions, which can lead to reduced maintenance needs. However, their complexity may require specialised knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Floating Ball Valves: Easier to maintain due to their simpler design, but may require more frequent attention in high-pressure or high-flow applications. Their lightweight and compact design facilitate easier installation and operation.

Conclusion

Choosing between trunnion-mounted and floating ball valves depends on the specific requirements of your application. Trunnion-mounted ball valves are ideal for high-pressure and high-flow conditions, offering superior sealing performance and durability. Floating ball valves, with their simpler design and cost-effectiveness, are suitable for moderate pressure and flow applications where space and budget constraints are a consideration.

 

At Steelstrong, we understand the critical role that valve selection plays in achieving operational efficiency and safety. Our extensive range of high-quality valves, including both trunnion-mounted and floating ball valves, is designed to meet the rigorous demands of various industrial applications. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Steelstrong continues to provide reliable valve solutions that enhance performance and reliability in diverse industries.

Ball valves are one of the world's most widely used types of valves. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty industrial use to household plumbing. There are two main types of ball valves: floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves. Both types have their own unique features and benefits. But what's the difference between these two types of valves? This blog post will explore the trunnion mounted ball valve vs. floating ball valves.

What Are Floating Ball Valves? 

Source: Dombor

As the name suggests, floating ball valves have a ball that flows inside the body of the valve. The ball is connected to the stem, which is operated by a handle. The ball is connected to a lever that opens and closes the valve. Floating ball valves are used in a variety of industries, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and water treatment.

Floating ball valves are often used in applications with a high degree of accuracy. The ball in a floating ball valve is free to move up and down, which allows it to create a tight seal. This makes floating ball valves ideal for applications where a small amount of leakage is acceptable.

Floating ball valves are available in various materials, such as brass, stainless steel, and plastic. The material chosen will depend on the application in which the valve will be used. For example, a plastic floating ball valve would be best suited for an acidic environment, while a brass ball valve would be best for a high-temperature application.

How Does a Floating Ball Valve Work?

A floating ball valve is a type of valve that uses a ball that floats on top of a liquid to control the flow of the liquid. The ball is connected to a lever that can be used to open and close the valve. When the valve is open, the ball floats, allowing the liquid to flow. When the valve is completed, the ball sinks and blocks the flow of the liquid.

Pros And Cons Of A Floating Ball Valve

A floating ball valve is often used in various industrial and commercial applications. The ball in this type of valve is designed to float on top of the fluid, which allows for a tight seal while also using minimal force. While floating ball valves have many benefits, there are also a few drawbacks.

PROS

• It can be used with various fluids
• Easy to operate
• Good for tight spaces
• Low maintenance

CONS

• Some fluids can cause the ball to stick
• It can be difficult to repair
• Not suitable for high-pressure applications

Whether or not a floating ball valve is suitable for the business will depend on the specific needs. However, it is essential to be aware of both the pros and cons of this type of valve before making a decision.

What Are Trunnion Ball Valves? 

Source: istock

A trunnion ball valve is a type of valve that uses a ball held in place by two trunnions or posts. This design allows the ball to rotate in place, allowing the valve to open or close. This ball valve is a specialized type of valve that is used in a variety of industries. These valves are designed to provide superior performance in critical applications. Trunnion ball valves are available in various sizes and pressure ratings to suit the needs of different industries.

Some industries that commonly use trunnion ball valves include the oil and gas industry, the power generation industry, and the chemical processing industry. These valves are also widely used in applications where there is a need for a high-quality valve that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures.

How Does a Trunnion Ball Valve Work?

Trunnion ball valves are designed for high-pressure and heavy-duty applications. They are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of different industries. But how does a trunnion ball valve work?

Trunnion ball valves have a two-piece body design that contains a ball with a hole through the center. The ball is attached to a trunnion, a support that allows the ball to rotate. The trunnion is connected to the valve's body and is held in place by bearings.

When the valve is in the open position, the hole in the ball's center aligns with the valve's inlet and outlet ports. This allows fluid to flow through the valve. When the valve is in the closed position, the ball is rotated so that the hole is no longer aligned with the ports, and fluid flow is blocked. Trunnion ball valves are used in applications where it is crucial to minimize or eliminate the risk of leaks. 

Pros And Cons Of A Trunnion Ball Valve

Trunnion ball valves are one of the most popular types of valves on the market today. They are used in a wide variety of industries and applications, from oil and gas to water and wastewater. But what are the pros and cons of trunnion ball valves? Let's take a look.

PROS: 

• Trunnion ball valves are very sturdy and can withstand high pressure.
• They are easy to operate and can be opened and closed quickly.
• Trunnion ball valves have a good seal and can be used with a variety of different liquids and gasses.

CONS: 

• Trunnion ball valves can be expensive.
• They can be challenging to repair if they break.
• Trunnion ball valves can be large and bulky, making them difficult to install in some applications.

Key Differences Between Floating Ball Valves And Trunnion Ball Valves 

Source: istock

Floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves are both types of ball valves. Ball valves are valves that use a ball to control the flow of fluid. The ball has a hole in the center that allows fluid to pass through when the valve opens. When the valve is closed, the ball is turned, so the hole is blocked, and fluid cannot pass through.

So, what are the critical differences between a trunnion valve vs floating valve? The main difference is in the design of the ball. In a floating ball valve, the ball is free to float within the body of the valve. This allows the ball to align with the seat, creating a tight seal. In a trunnion ball valve, the ball is attached to a trunnion, which is a short, cylindrical piece of metal. The trunnion supports the ball as a fulcrum to pivot on. This advantage is that it strengthens the valve and can prevent the ball from breaking or deforming under high pressures.

Floating ball valves have a lower risk of leakage and are easier to maintain than trunnion ball valves. They are also less expensive. On the other hand, trunnion ball valves have superior flow characteristics and can handle higher pressures.

Floating Ball Vs. Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve: Which One Is Best To Choose? 

Source: istock

There are many factors to consider when choosing between a trunnion mounted vs floating ball valve. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so the right choice for needs will depend on various factors. To help make the best decision, we've prepared a quick overview of these two types of floating ball vs trunnion mounted ball valve.

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• Floating ball valves have a ball that floats on a seat, which gives it lower risk of damage from friction. Trunnion-mounted ball valves have a ball attached to a trunnion, providing it with a higher level of durability.
• Floating ball valves are typically less expensive than trunnion mounted ball valves. Trunnion-mounted ball valves are often used in heavy-duty applications because of their durability.
• Floating ball valves can be used in a wide variety of applications such as chemical processing and water treatment. Trunnion-mounted ball valves are typically used in oil and gas pipelines, power plants, and chemical plants.

Bottomline

In conclusion, there are a few keys to trunnion ball valve vs floating ball valve. Trunnion ball valves have a higher pressure rating and are therefore better suited for high-pressure applications. Floating ball valves are less likely to leak, making them a better choice for applications where leaks are a concern. Both valves have advantages and disadvantages, so selecting the correct type of industrial valve manufacturer for the specific application is essential. Looking for trunnion ball valve manufacturers? Contact Dombor to know more details now!

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Customized Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.