Gate Valves Vs. Ball Valves: How To Pick The Right Flow ...

Various valves make it easier for users to maintain and regulate fluid flow in pipelines. There are various types of valves, and each of them serves a different purpose that varies from pressure range, shutdown, and durability, along with the type of fluid that moves through these pipelines. 

For more information, please visit IWHR.

So in this article, we will discuss mainly used valves such as gate valves and ball valves along with various factors of differentiations.

Gate Valve

The gate valve is a special type of valve in which a slider is placed between two pipelines to control fluid flow through them. A knob is placed on top of the junction, and it is joined with a slider on the rear end. The slider is lifted when the knob is turned, and fluid starts flowing.

Various types of gate valves are listed below based on their material.

• Forged Steel
• Gunmetal Stainless Steel
• Alloy Steel
• Cast Carbon Steel
• Cast Iron
• Ductile Iron

Ball Valve

The ball valve is a special type of valve in which a ball is placed between two pipelines to control fluid flow through them. A handle is placed on top of the junction, and it is joined with the ball on the rear end. When the handle moves to 90 degrees, the ball opens the sight of flow, and fluid starts flowing.

Various types of ball valves are listed below based on their material.

• Stainless steel
• Bronze
• Chrome
• Titanium
• PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
• CPVC (Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride)
• Brass

Factors Of Differentiation

There are various factors of differentiation between both types of valves on their functions.

• Visual Detection

It is tough for users to guess the state of the valve from the direct line of sight in the gate valve, whereas, in ball valves, users can easily detect the open or close state of the valve in the direct line of sight.

• Durability

The gate valves are open for direct effect when it comes in contact with the fluid flowing in the valve, whereas the ball valve comes in contact with different sections when exposed to the fluid, which reduces the chances of corrosion.

• Size

Gate valves are used for pipelines greater in size than 2' whereas pipelines with less than 2' ball valves turn out to be most efficient.

• Control Mechanism

Gate valve uses full 360 degrees movement to close the flow of fluid, whereas the ball valve requires the least of 90 degrees movement, which blocks fluid flow.

• Water Hammer

Instant opening and closing of the ball valve can result in the situation known as water hammer, whereas in gate valve time taken to open and close valve reduces the chance of water hammer.

• Cost

The ball valve is more expensive than the gate valve, but it is worth the investment.

Installation Space

The ball valve requires comparatively more space for handle movement, whereas the gate valve requires small space as the knob is placed on its top.

• Leakage

The gate valve is open to leakages, whereas the ball valve seals tight valves, which does not allow any form of water leakage.

For more information, please visit flow control gate.

How To Choose Valves

Various factors have to be kept in mind when you plan to buy a valve.

• Flow

The flow of a valve is measured by the volume of fluid that passes through it every second, so valves with bigger diameters can allow more volume of water to pass.

• Ports

Most valves have two ports which are input and output ports, whereas ball valves can accommodate more than 2 input and output.

• Flow Speed At Ports

Gate valves use a slider that blocks the flow at either port. When users try to block the flow, then the velocity of flow reduces and keeps on decreasing rapidly. The flow is restricted instantly in the ball valve, and velocity reduces from a greater number to zero.

• Sealing

The gate valve has various chances of corrosion and leakages, but the ball valve completely restricts the flow and ensures a tight seal. So inflammable materials of corrosive materials, it is better to use a ball valve for managing their flow.

• Pressure

Both ball and gate valves can easily operate within the normal pressure parameters, whereas gate valves are effective against the high-pressure flow. The gate valve has a slow closing speed as it takes time to roll down the slider, reducing the chances of water hammer.

• Cost

The ball valve is expensive to set up because it requires a strong and durable ball to be placed between the connections, and it requires high maintenance costs, which makes it an overall expensive setup.

Application

Each type of valve suits different purposes and industries, and some of them are listed below for each type of valve.

• Gate valves are used on an extensive scale in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Gate valves are used in the natural gas, oil, and petroleum industry,
• Gate valve is used in the manufacturing industry for efficient output.
• Gate valves are used in the marine industry and automotive industry.
• Ball valves are used in the Offshore and Onshore Gas industries.
• Ball valves are used in explosive industries like the onshore and offshore petrochemical industries.

There are basic uses of such valves in core industries based on the working and features of these valves. But in some industries, there is a need for both types of valves, so a hybrid model is developed in which a certain section of unit-specific valve is used based on its uses.

Conclusion

Valves allow the users to maintain control over fluid flow through pipelines and make it easier for users to seal the flow at the time of emergency. So when you have to choose a valve for your massive production unit, you need to consider various factors that would make it easier for you to enhance your production. 

So in this article, we discussed differentiation between two common types of valves: ball valve and gate valve. We differentiated these valves based on their working and applications.  

Flow control valves are essential parts of most flow systems. They regulate the rate at which fluids pass through a system, providing a practical way to control flow without the need for constant human intervention. From ensuring the smooth operation of equipment to minimizing risks during operation, flow control valves are vital components in various industries. They also enhance the quality of end products, making them indispensable in today's industrial world.

What is a Flow Control Valve?

A flow control valve is a specific type of valve that manages the flow or pressure of a fluid such as gas or liquid. The main purpose of a flow control valve is to regulate the velocity and volume of the flow in a piping system. This valve can operate automatically, depending on the pressure and temperature changes, or can be manually controlled.

flow control valve 1

Flow control valves are typically responsive to signals from independent devices like flow meters and temperature gauges. They're fitted with actuators and positioners to regulate their function, enhancing the flow control industry's capability to manage fluid pressure in different applications.

How Does a Flow Control Valve Work?

The operation of a flow control valve mainly entails the modulation of the flow or pressure of a fluid, including changes of pressure. In essence, a flow control valve impacts the rate of energy transfer at any given point within a system. It opens, closes, or partially blocks the flow of the fluid to achieve a desired flow rate or maintain a set pressure. By modulating flow rates, these valves ensure the smooth operation of devices downstream and maintain system integrity.
Control valves can also work with hydraulic actuators (also known as hydraulic pilots). For instance, in a hydraulic flow control valve, the valve responds to shifts in pressure or flow, opening, or closing to maintain an optimal flow rate. By doing so, it ensures the hydraulic system operates efficiently and safely. It is the fluid pressure in the system that determines the opening and closing of automatic flow control valves, rather than relying on an external power source. Automatic control valves do not require an external power source and they include pressure reducing valves, flow control valves, back pressure maintenance valves, altitude valves, and relief valves.

What are the Various Types of Flow Control Valves?

There are multiple types of valves designed to meet the diverse needs of different industries for control purposes. Some of these flow control valve types include:

1. Pinch Valves: These valves utilize a flexible element, such as a rubber tube, to interrupt and regulate the flow of fluid. They're particularly useful when working with slurries or liquids with a significant amount of suspended solids.

flow control valve 2

2. Diaphragm Valves: These valves use a flexible diaphragm that comes into contact with a seat at the top of the valve body, forming a seal. Diaphragm valves are great for handling corrosive, erosive, and dirt-laden services.
3. Gate Valves: These valves function primarily for on/off, non-throttling service. They're often used where minimum pressure loss and a free bore is required.
4. Globe Valves: Globe valves are linear motion valves perfect for adjusting, halting, and initiating flow. They can completely close the flow path or remove it from the flow path completely.
5. Needle Valves: These offer precise flow control. They possess a sharp-pointed disc and a matching seat, making them suitable for applications that require precision, such as chemical feed control and continuous blow-off.

flow control valve 3

6. Ball Valves: These are commonly used in commercial and industrial applications due to their durability and excellent shutoff capability. They operate by rotating a ball to open or close the valve.
7. Plug Valves: Plug valves regulate flow by rotating a cylindrical or cone-shaped plug within the valve body.
8. Butterfly Valves: These valves control the flow of fluid by rotating a disc in the flow passage. Although they might lack the high degree of precision attained with other valve types, they are notably cost-effective.

What Are Some Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Flow Control Valves?

Flow Valve TypeAdvantagesDisadvantagesPinch ValveConveniently handling slurries or liquids with many suspended solids; Durable and resistant to abrasion; Simple design means less maintenanceReduced efficiency with larger diameter pipes; Not suitable for high-pressure applicationsDiaphragm ValveSuitable for handling corrosive, erosive, and dirty fluids; Superior hygiene makes it suitable for food and medical applicationsSuited for moderate pressures and temperatures; the elastomeric material may degrade over timeGate ValveIdeal for straight-line flow of fluid with minimal restriction; Suited for a wide range of fluidsNot suited for throttling purposes; Slow to open and closeGlobe ValveProvides better shut-off than gate valves; Excellent throttling capabilitiesCauses a significant pressure drop; Larger and more expensive than other typesNeedle ValveAllows precise regulation; Exceptional performance under extreme conditionsNot suited for high flow rates; More expensive than other valvesBall ValveRapid shut-off; High flow capacity; Minimal pressure dropNot suited for throttling applications; Can potentially trap fluid in the ball's cavityPlug ValveEasy to install and use; Allows rapid opening and closingPossible leakage if the plug wears over timeButterfly ValveLightweight and compact; Affordable; Quick operationNot as effective in controlling flow rate as other valves; Limited ability to provide an airtight shut-off

What Are the Various Applications of Flow Control Valves?

1. Industrial processes and manufacturing operations to regulate fluid flow.
2. Hydraulic and pneumatic systems to control the speed of motors and cylinders.
3. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to regulate the flow of coolant.
4. Water treatment facilities to manage the flow rate of water.
5. Plumbing systems in buildings to control the flow of water.
6. Automotive and aerospace industries for controlling fuel and hydraulic fluid flow.
7. Power plants to regulate steam for driving turbines.
8. Agricultural equipment for precise delivery of water and fertilizers.
9. The oil and gas sector manages the flow of oil and gas through pipelines.
10. Chemical and pharmaceutical industries control the flow of liquids or gases during the production process.

How to Select Flow Control Valves for Different Industrial Applications?

1. Type of Fluid: Understand what kind of fluid (gas, liquid, etc.) the valve will be controlled. Different valve types handle different fluid types better than others.
2. Operating Pressure and Temperature: Determine the operating differential pressures and temperatures that the valve will be exposed to. Certain valves are better suited to high temperatures or pressures, while others might not perform as well under these conditions.
3. Flow Rate: The desired flow rate will determine the valve size you'll need. Larger valves will allow larger volumes of fluid to pass through at a given time.
4. System Compatibility: Ensure the chosen valve type is compatible with other system elements.
5. Safety Requirements: Some applications may have specific safety requirements that a valve must meet.
6. Maintenance and Durability: Consider the maintenance needs and durability of the valve. Certain valve types, while maybe cheaper upfront, may require more regular maintenance, which can lead to increased costs over time.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Analyzing the cost versus the expected benefits and lifespan of the flow valve can help to justify the investment.
8. Expert Advice: Consult industry experts or well-reputed suppliers like Dombor for personalized advice on the best flow control valve for your specific application.

What Are the Maintenance Requirements for Different Types of Flow Control Valves?

The maintenance requirements for flow control valves vary based on the type of valve, the system in which it operates, and the kind of fluid it regulates. Regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication are essential to maintain the performance and extend the life of the valve. Moreover, certain valves such as automatic control valves require special monitoring as their maintenance needs might be more complex. For instance, some require frequent adjustment or replacement of internal parts.

flow control valve 4

Proper training in valve maintenance is essential and should cover all aspects of operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair procedures. It's worth noting that ignoring regular maintenance can result in valve failure ' an issue that could compromise the integrity of the entire system.

Conclusion

Flow control valves play a significant role in various industries and systems, from simply regulating the flow rate of the fluid to maintaining safety and efficiency in operations. While the selection can be extensive, understanding the features, advantages, and applications of each type assists in choosing the best type for your needs.

Choosing a Trusted Partner

As a trusted partner in the flow control industry, Dombor can provide the right flow control valve for your operations. With a comprehensive range of options, top-notch customer service, and industry expertise, Dombor will ensure you get the best value for your investment. Partnering with Dombor guarantees a solution that perfectly meets your requirements and exceeds your expectations.

The company is the world’s best dam construction companies supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.