Understanding Trunnion Ball Valves: A Comprehensive ...

Trunnion mounted ball valves are essential components in fluid control systems, offering precise regulation and secure sealing in various industries. Understanding the intricacies of trunnion ball valves is crucial for engineers and operators to make informed decisions when selecting valves for specific applications. This comprehensive guide delves into the workings, differences, components, materials, applications, advantages, disadvantages, and selection criteria of trunnion ball valves.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Xiangyu sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

What is a Trunnion Ball Valve?

Trunnion ball valves are quarter-turn valves designed to control the flow of media within pipelines. Unlike other ball valves, trunnion ball valves feature a fixed ball connected to a shaft called the trunnion on one end, ensuring the ball is securely held in place. This design offers stability and precise control, making trunnion ball valves suitable for high-pressure applications.

How Does a Trunnion Ball Valve Work?

The functionality of a trunnion ball valve is relatively straightforward. Here's a breakdown of the process:

• Closed Position: In the closed position, the hollow center of the ball is perpendicular to the flow path, blocking the passage of the fluid.
• Opening the Valve: By rotating the handle connected to the stem, the ball rotates 90 degrees. Now, the hollow center aligns with the flow path, allowing the fluid to pass through unrestricted.
• Sealing: The tight shut-off is ensured by resilient seats located around the ball's opening. These seats compress against the ball, creating a leak-proof seal.

The trunnion plays a critical role in this process. By absorbing the pressure from the fluid, it reduces the load on the ball and seats, enabling smooth operation and minimizing wear and tear, even in high-pressure environments.

Differences Between Trunnion Ball Valves and Floating Ball Valves

The key distinction between trunnion ball valves and floating ball valves lies in their design and functionality.

• Trunnion ball valves are ideal for high-pressure applications due to their fixed ball design, which provides better sealing on both sides and requires less torque to operate. Trunnion ball valves' cost is higher than floating ball valves.
• Floating ball valves have a floating ball that moves slightly downstream against the seat ring, creating a seal on one side and increasing stem torque. This design is simpler and more cost-effective, but it limits the pressure rating due to the stress placed directly on the ball and seats.

Components of a Trunnion Ball Valve

Trunnion ball valves consist of essential components such as the ball, stem, trunnion, bearings, seats, and body. The trunnion supports the ball, ensuring stability and controlled rotation. Bearings reduce friction, while seats provide sealing against pressure. The body construction can be side entry or top entry, allowing for maintenance without removing the valve from the pipeline.

Materials of Trunnion Ball Valves

The materials used in trunnion ball valves play a critical role in their performance and longevity. Common materials include steel for the ball, polymers like PTFE or metals for the seats, and high-quality gaskets for reliable tightness and low-emission performance. The choice of materials depends on factors such as pressure, temperature, and the nature of the fluid being controlled.

Trunnion Ball Valve Applications

Trunnion ball valves find extensive applications in industries such as oil refineries, petrochemical plants, power generation facilities, water treatment plants, and hydrocarbon industries. Their ability to provide precise fluid control, secure sealing, and reliable performance makes them suitable for a wide range of demanding environments where efficient flow regulation is essential.

Advantages of Trunnion Ball Valves

• High-Pressure Rating: The trunnion design allows them to handle significantly higher pressures compared to floating ball valves.
• Reliable Shut-Off: The positive sealing mechanism ensures a leak-proof closure, which is critical for applications where safety and environmental concerns are paramount.
• Durability: The robust construction with superior materials makes them resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life.
• Low Maintenance: Trunnion ball valves generally require minimal maintenance due to their simple design and high-quality components.
• Quick Operation: The quarter-turn operation allows for rapid opening and closing of the valve, which is essential for emergency shut-off situations.
• Versatility: Trunnion ball valves are available in a wide range of sizes and materials, making them suitable for diverse applications.

Disadvantages of Trunnion Ball Valves

While offering numerous benefits, trunnion ball valves also have some drawbacks:

• Higher Cost: Due to their complex design and use of high-quality materials, trunnion ball valves are generally more expensive than floating ball valves.
• Larger Size and Weight: The robust construction makes them larger and heavier compared to floating ball valves, which may limit their use in space-constrained applications.
• Higher Operating Torque: Opening and closing a trunnion ball valve, particularly in larger sizes, may require more torque due to the pressure load on the ball. 
• Limited Throttling Capability: Trunnion ball valves are primarily designed for on/off flow control and are not ideal for precise flow regulation applications.

How to Choose the Right Trunnion Ball Valves

Selecting the appropriate trunnion ball valve involves considering several factors:

• Application: Identify the specific application and the fluid characteristics (pressure, temperature, corrosivity).
• Pressure Rating: Choose a valve with a pressure rating exceeding the maximum operating pressure in your system.
• Material Compatibility: Select materials compatible with the fluid being handled to ensure corrosion resistance and long-term performance.
• Size and Weight: Consider the available space and piping layout when selecting valve size. Weight may be a factor for overhead installations.
• Standards and Regulations: Ensure the valve complies with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.
• Manufacturer Reputation: Select a reputable manufacturer known for quality products and reliable after-sales support.

By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that the chosen trunnion ball valve effectively meets your application requirements and delivers optimal performance and value throughout its service life.

In conclusion, trunnion ball valves are indispensable components in fluid control systems, offering precise regulation, secure sealing, and reliable performance in various industries. Understanding their design, functionality, components, materials, applications, advantages, disadvantages, and selection criteria is essential for engineers and operators to optimize fluid control operations and enhance system efficiency.

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.

Explore more:
Mechanical Parts & Fabrication Services
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Backflow Valve in 2023?
Swing Check Valves - Plumbing Sales
Belleville101: What are Belleville Washers and Disc Springs?
What to Consider When Choosing Valve Parts Casting Vendor
Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Plastic Conveyor Chain
How to Choose Aluminum Casting in China Effectively

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Trunnion Vs Floating Ball Valve.

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.

.

• 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 China 3 Way Ball Valve Supplier. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.