Ball valves are a crucial component in flow control for fluids and gases. These versatile devices appear in a variety of industries to perform applications. Explore five industries and applications for ball valves.
Food and Beverage Industry
Hygiene and cleanliness are essential in the food and beverage industry. Many food and beverage producers use stainless steel ball valves because they are easy to clean, resistant to corrosion, and can withstand the high temperatures often involved in food processing. Additionally, they are non-reactive, ensuring they don’t alter the taste or quality of the food products.
Oil and Gas Industry
Oil and gas extraction and refining occur in extreme temperature and pressure conditions. This industry requires ball valves that can withstand such harsh environments. Stainless and carbon steel ball valves are often the go-to choice because of their high temperature and pressure endurance. Many also use Viton and PEEK seal materials because they are also highly resistant to corrosion, an essential property when dealing with the corrosive substances encountered in oil and gas production.
Water and Wastewater Industry
Water and wastewater facilities commonly use ball valves in water supply pipes, sewage systems, and treatment plants. Brass ball valves are popular due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. However, plumbing valves must be lead-free for use in potable water systems.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries
Ball valves in the chemical industry must also resist a range of aggressive substances. Depending on the specific chemicals involved, manufacturers may use both stainless steel and plastic ball valves. Stainless steel offers excellent temperature and pressure endurance, while plastic ball valves, such as those made from PVC or polypropylene, provide exceptional resistance to a range of chemicals.
Ball valves control processes, such as drug formulation and sterile water systems, in the pharmaceutical industry, providing the cleanliness and precision necessary to maintain the composition and purity of pharmaceutical products. As in the food industry, pharmaceutical manufacturers tend to prefer stainless steel ball valves for their non-reactive properties, easy sanitization, and durability.
Agricultural and Manufacturing Industries
Agricultural applications for ball valves include controlling water flow in irrigation and livestock watering systems. Manufacturing industries use ball valves to regulate fluids and gases in processes like brewing, molding, and extrusion.
These five industries and applications for ball valves regulate liquid and gas flow while maintaining product purity and safety. At Direct Material, we offer a variety of ball valves that can perform optimally in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Explore our extensive selection today and find the perfect ball valve for your application.