For many of us the image of a ball valve is that is an essential part of the toilet cistern that controls the water flow to ensure that when the cistern is full it does not overflow. In the past these ball valves would become corroded or furred up, and thus the function of the cistern was impeded. Not only has the material that is used now been changed so that the corrosion cannot happen, but the use to which ball valves can be applied has grown significantly.
What is a ball valve?
It is best described, as a valve with a spherical disc which when placed under pressure will control the flow of liquids or gases. The sphere has a hole, or port, through the middle so that when the port is in line with both ends of the valve, flow will occur. Ball valves can withstand a whole variety of pressures and are effective in almost all circumstances. Today as well as being made of the traditional material of brass they can be made of stainless steel and nylon. The ball is often chrome plate to make it more durable
Uses
The uses of ball valves are numerous. If you use an oxyacetylene cylinder to assist you with welding the flow of the gas will be controlled by a ball valve. In pipelines that carry industrial gases the shut of valve will be a ball valve. A ball valve can have a three way and a four way application in that it can control fluids or gases that are coming from multiple sources so that the right mix can be obtained.
Ball valves are a part of many vital mechanisms and it is essential that they are well maintained and serviced. Over time the portals that are at the centre of them will become enlarged to due pressure and erosion and this will serve to increase the flow of liquids and gases. As the flow strength can be essential when a mix of the liquids or gases is involved it can be seen that maintenance is vital.
Looking for Ball Valves?southernvalve.co.uk is a website and company supplying great quality and highly manufactured plumbing mechanisms; Come to our website today for Butterfly Valves.