Varieties and advantages of ball valves
A ball valve is a device whose locking element has the shape of a ball. This spherical gate has a cylindrical hole that regulates the flow in the pipeline.
The main varieties
The components of ball valves can be made of various materials. Apply:
- stainless steel;
- brass;
- cast iron;
- teflon.
The case is often made of high-quality steel. The ball is protected by carbon-Teflon gaskets. Materials are selected depending on the purpose of the crane. The devices are used in the oil and gas, chemical industry, heating and water supply systems.
Products are also divided into:
- ball valves for welding;
- flanged cranes;
- to replace the valves.
They can be used mechanically or electrically. In the second case, the cranes are equipped with an electric motor that provides torque transmitted through a protected axle. The axis is sealed with Teflon conical seals, which guarantees the absence of leaks.
Advantages of ball valves
Ball valves came to replace the valves. They surpass even wedge valves with electric drive due to the following advantages:
- high tightness;
- ease of use;
- high performance;
- no need for enhanced maintenance;
- resistance to high temperatures;
- durability.
To close or open the crane, one turn of the handle is enough — the valve requires about ten rotations of the flywheel. You can see by the handle whether the faucet is open or closed.
Ball valves can withstand temperatures of at least 180 degrees Celsius.
The disadvantage of cranes can be considered an increased price compared to valves. This leads to the appearance of fakes, so you need to be careful when buying a product. For water pipes, taps should not contain copper and lead. Special vigilance should be exercised when buying a gas faucet: under its guise, plumbing devices with a handle repainted in yellow are often issued. Despite the cost, a high-quality crane will pay off quickly, because it will not require replacement and maintenance for a long time.