What is the difference between a floating ball and a trunnion mounted ball valve? The answer lies in the way that these two types of valves are constructed.
**Construction:
A floating ball valve has a ball that floats in the valve body. The ball is held in position by two valve seats that seal against the ball''s surface. The stem of the valve, which is attached to the ball, extends from the top of the valve body. The stem moves the ball up and down to open or close the valve.
A trunnion mounted ball valve has a ball that is supported by two trunnions. These trunnions are attached to the valve body and support the weight of the ball. The stem of the valve, which is attached to the ball, extends through the center of the valve body and is held in place by bearings or bushings.
**Pressure Rating:
One of the main differences between a floating ball and a trunnion mounted ball valve is the pressure rating. A trunnion mounted ball valve is capable of handling higher pressures than a floating ball valve. This is because the trunnion mounted ball valve has additional support from the trunnions, which helps to better distribute the load.
**Size Range:
Another difference between these two types of valves is the size range. Trunnion mounted ball valves are typically larger than floating ball valves. This is because the trunnions provide additional support to the ball, which allows the valve to handle greater loads.
**Sealing:
The sealing mechanism between the ball and valve body is also different between these two valves. In a floating ball valve, the seals are located on the ball itself. In a trunnion mounted ball valve, the seals are located in the valve body.
**Torque:
The torque required to operate these valves is also different. A trunnion mounted ball valve requires more torque to operate than a floating ball valve. This is due to the additional support provided by the trunnions.
**Applications:
A floating ball valve is typically used in low to medium pressure applications. These applications tend to have smaller pipe sizes and lower flow rates. Trunnion mounted ball valves are used in high pressure applications. These applications tend to have larger pipe sizes and higher flow rates.
**Maintenance:
Maintenance is also different for these two types of valves. A floating ball valve is typically easier to maintain than a trunnion mounted ball valve. This is because the ball can be easily removed from the valve body for inspection and repair. Trunnion mounted ball valves require more maintenance due to the additional parts and bearings that are used.
In conclusion, the difference between a floating ball and a trunnion mounted ball valve lies in their construction, pressure rating, size range, sealing mechanism, torque, applications, and maintenance. It''s important to choose the right type of valve for your specific application to ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency.
