Trunnion Valve Balls vs. Floating Valve Balls: Key Differences Explained

Understanding the different types of valve balls is crucial for effective valve selection in various applications. Here, we will explore the differences between Trunnion Valve Balls and Floating Valve Balls.

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1. What are Trunnion Valve Balls?

Trunnion valve balls are designed with a fixed ball that is supported by trunnions, or pivot points, on both the top and bottom of the ball. This unique design allows the ball to rotate freely, which is essential for throttling and shutting off flow in pipelines.

2. What are Floating Valve Balls?

Floating valve balls, on the other hand, are not fixed in place. Instead, they “float” within the valve body. The ball is held in position by two seats that exert pressure on it. This design allows the ball to move slightly to create a tighter seal against the seats when the valve is closed.

3. What are the key differences between Trunnion Valve Balls and Floating Valve Balls?

Here are the main differences:

1. Support Structure: Trunnion Valve Balls have a fixed position due to the trunnions that support the ball, while Floating Valve Balls rely on the sealing seats to hold them in place.
2. Operational Characteristics: Trunnion Valve Balls are better for high-pressure applications because they can handle higher torque and stresses without deformation. Floating Valve Balls, however, are typically suited for low to medium-pressure applications.
3. Size and Weight: Trunnion Valve Balls tend to be larger and heavier since they are designed to maintain a fixed position within larger valve bodies. Floating Valve Balls are usually smaller and lighter.
4. Maintenance: In general, Trunnion designs mean less wear on the seats, leading to less frequent maintenance. Floating Valve Balls may require more frequent maintenance due to wear and tear from being able to move slightly within the valve body.

4. In which applications are Trunnion Valve Balls preferred?

Trunnion Valve Balls are often preferred in large-scale industrial applications, such as:

• Oil and gas pipelines
• Water treatment plants
• Power generation facilities
• Chemical processing industries

These environments require reliability and the ability to handle high pressures without failure.

5. When are Floating Valve Balls the better choice?

Floating Valve Balls are more common in smaller, less demanding applications, including:

• Residential plumbing systems
• HVAC systems
• Low-pressure industrial processes

If you need a valve for a scenario where the pressure is not overwhelming, Floating Valve Balls offer a cost-effective and efficient solution.

6. How do I decide between the two types of valve balls?

When deciding between Trunnion Valve Balls and Floating Valve Balls, consider these factors:

1. Pressure Requirements: Determine what pressure the application will require.
2. Size Constraints: Consider the space available for the valve in your application.
3. Maintenance Capability: Evaluate how often maintenance can be performed and what level of wear is acceptable.
4. Cost: Assess your budget, as Trunnion designs may be more expensive initially but offer long-term savings in maintenance.

In summary, understanding the differences between Trunnion Valve Balls and Floating Valve Balls helps in selecting the appropriate valve for your specific needs. Each type has its specific advantages and applications that can optimize performance in various systems.