Ball valves can be classified in various ways, but they are primarily categorized based on their structural principles and sealing mechanisms.
Based on structural principles, ball valves are broadly divided into two main categories: floating ball valves and trunnion-mounted ball valves. Floating ball valves are characterized by a ball that is free to float within the valve seat, whereas trunnion-mounted ball valves feature a ball that is fixed relative to the seat.
Furthermore, ball valves are also classified according to their sealing mechanisms-examples include V-port ball valves and orbital ball valves. These distinct types of ball valves possess unique characteristics regarding their performance and applications, allowing for selection based on specific requirements.
Industrial Ball Valve Comparison: 8 Common Types & Performance Specs
Ball Valve Classification Table
| Valve Type | Key Features | Primary Function | Typical Applications |
| Floating Ball | The ball is supported by seats and moves downstream under pressure to seal. | Tight shut-off in low-to-medium pressure environments. | Industrial water networks, water treatment, utilities. |
| Trunnion Mounted | The ball is fixed by upper and lower bearings (trunnion) and does not displace. | Handles large bores and high pressures while reducing torque. | Oil & gas transmission pipelines (API 6D), crude oil, natural gas. |
| Side Entry | Body consists of two or three bolted pieces, assembled from the side. | Highly standardized, easy to manufacture and maintain. | Petroleum, chemical, and general process industries. |
| Top Entry | One-piece body; internals are loaded from the top cover. | In-line Maintenance: Repair without removing from the pipeline. | Corrosive media, nuclear power, and welded-end pipelines. |
| Fully Welded | The body is fully sealed by welding, with no bolted joints. | Eliminates external leak paths; superior structural strength. | Buried gas pipelines, district heating systems. |
| V-Port / Segmented | The ball features a V-shaped notch for cutting. | Precise flow modulation and shearing of fibrous media. | Paper & pulp, wastewater treatment, control valve service. |
| Metal Seated | Ball and seats are hard-faced (e.g., Tungsten Carbide or Stellite). | Resists high temperatures, erosion, and abrasive particles. | Mining tailings, power plant ash, high-temp hydrogenation. |
| Multi-port (3-way/4-way) | L-shaped or T-shaped flow paths within the ball. | Diverting, mixing, or changing flow directions. | Flow switching systems, heat exchangers, chemical mixing. |
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FAQ
How does a V ball valve work
The ball of a V-type ball valve is V-shaped. The actuator, controlled by an air source, rotates the ball axially to either the opening or closing angle. Because the V-type ball valve provides a bidirectional seal, it can be installed in any orientation. In the closed state, the small ball size ensures excellent sealing performance and prevents fluid leakage. In the open state, the ball is at a 45-degree angle, minimizing resistance to fluid flow.
What are the components of a trunnion mounted ball valve
A trunnion ball valve mainly consists of a valve body, valve cover, valve ball, valve seat, valve stem, and operating device.
The valve body is the main component, usually made of cast iron or stainless steel, offering good corrosion resistance. The valve cover connects to the valve body and secures the valve ball and seat. The valve ball is the key component of the trunnion ball valve, typically made of stainless steel, providing excellent sealing performance.
The valve seat mates with the valve ball, usually made of an elastic material, ensuring the valve's sealing performance. The valve stem connects the valve cover and valve ball, transmitting the operating force. The operating device can be manual or automatic, used to control the opening and closing of the valve.