A floating ball valve is a type of quarter-turn valve used to control the flow of liquids or gases in pipelines. Its design centers around a hollow, rotating ball with a bore (hole) that aligns with the flow path when open and blocks it when closed. Unlike trunnion-mounted ball valves, the floating ball is not mechanically anchored but instead "floats" between two seats, relying on system pressure to create a tight seal. This simple yet robust mechanism makes it ideal for a wide range of industrial applications.

Key Uses of Floating Ball Valves

1.  On/Off Flow Control

   The primary function is to start or stop fluid flow. When the handle or actuator rotates the ball 90°, the bore aligns with the pipeline (open) or turns perpendicular (closed), enabling quick and reliable shutoff.

2. Bubble-Tight Sealing

   System pressure pushes the floating ball against the downstream seat, creating a leak-proof seal. This is critical for handling hazardous or high-value media (e.g., oil, gas, chemicals).

3. Pressure and Temperature Management

   Floating ball valves are designed to withstand extreme conditions, including high-pressure systems (up to 7,250 psi) and temperatures ranging from -60°C to 680°C, making them suitable for cryogenic storage, steam lines, and refinery processes.

4. Corrosion and Abrasion Resistance

   Constructed from materials like stainless steel, Inconel, or PTFE-coated components, they resist degradation in corrosive environments (e.g., seawater, acids) or abrasive media (e.g., slurries).

5. Safety in Hazardous Environments

   Fire-safe designs (certified to API 607/6FA) prevent valve failure during emergencies, such as fires in oil and gas facilities.

Common Applications Across Industries

• Oil & Gas: Shutoff and isolation in pipelines, wellheads, and storage tanks.

• Petrochemicals: Handling aggressive chemicals, acids, and solvents.

• Power Generation: Managing steam, cooling water, and fuel systems.

• Water Treatment: Regulating flow in desalination or wastewater plants.

• Cryogenic Systems: LNG storage and transportation at ultra-low temperatures.

Advantages Over Other Valve Types

1. Compact and Lightweight: Easier to install in tight spaces compared to gate or globe valves.

2. Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts and self-cleaning seats reduce wear.

3. Cost-Effective: Lower upfront costs and minimal lifecycle expenses.

4. Versatility: Compatible with manual, pneumatic, or electric actuators for automation.

Limitations

• High-Pressure Limitations: Floating ball valves may struggle with extremely high pressures (above 1,000 psi for large diameters), where trunnion-mounted valves are preferred.

• Abrasive Media: Prolonged exposure to slurries can erode soft seats (e.g., PTFE).

Summary: Why Choose a Floating Ball Valve?

Floating ball valves are indispensable for industries requiring reliable shutoff, durability in harsh conditions, and cost efficiency. Their ability to handle diverse fluids (liquids, gases, steam) and adapt to extreme pressures/temperatures makes them a go-to solution for:

• Safety-critical systems (e.g., oil refineries, chemical plants).

• Space-constrained installations (e.g., offshore platforms, urban pipelines).

• Automation-ready processes with actuated models.