Key Features
- Butt-Weld Connections: Welding ends connect directly to matching pipework, forming permanent joints at the pipeline interfaces. Correct end preparation, alignment and welding procedures are essential to joint integrity.
- Three-Piece Serviceable Structure: The central housing and two end sections provide access to the ball, seats and body seals. Where the confirmed construction and installation clearance permit, the centre section can be removed while the welded ends remain connected to the pipeline.
- Full-Bore Flow Path: The open ball provides a relatively direct passage through the valve, helping limit obstruction and pressure loss.
- Quarter-Turn Operation: A 90-degree rotation changes the valve between open and closed positions, supporting convenient local isolation.
- Actuator Mounting Interface: An ISO 5211 top flange supports actuator integration after verification of torque, stem coupling, differential pressure and operating frequency.
- Design and Welding-End References: Published specifications identify ASME B16.34 and BS 5351 for design, with ASME B16.25 and EN 12627 referenced for welding ends.
Body Material Options
- Stainless Steel: Listed options include CF8, CF8M and CF3M. These grades can be evaluated for compatible water, process-liquid and chemical services. Selection should account for concentration, temperature, chlorides and cleaning agents.
- Cast Carbon Steel: Suitable for consideration where the piping specification permits a cast carbon steel pressure boundary. Confirm the exact casting grade, fluid compatibility, corrosion requirements and welding conditions before ordering.
- ASTM A105 Forged Carbon Steel: A105 is a carbon steel forging specification for piping components. Confirm the specified material condition and its compatibility with the connected pipe. The complete valve’s operating limits must also account for the seats, seals and bolting.
Internal Components and Sealing
The published stainless steel configuration lists CF8, CF8M or CF3M for the ball, stainless steel for the stem, and PTFE for the seats, joint gaskets, thrust washer and packing.
For cast carbon steel and A105 configurations, agree on a complete component material schedule. Body, end sections, ball, stem, fasteners and sealing materials should be identified individually to ensure compatibility with the intended service.
Typical Applications
- Welded Process Pipework: Isolation of compatible fluids where butt-weld connections are specified.
- Pump and Equipment Packages: Connections around pumps, filters, heat exchangers and compact process assemblies.
- Industrial Water and Cooling Circuits: Compatible circulation and utility-water duties using an appropriate material configuration.
- Oil and Gas Auxiliary Systems: Selected liquid and gas services meeting the project’s material and operating requirements.
- Chemical Processing: Applications supported by a confirmed stainless steel grade and sealing-material assessment.
- Selected Steam and Condensate Lines: Duties covered by verified steam-service pressure and temperature limits.
Weld-End Matching and Installation
Specify the connected pipe material, outside diameter, wall thickness or schedule, and required weld preparation. Nominal valve size alone does not establish a suitable weld-end match.
Use a qualified welding procedure appropriate to the valve ends and pipe materials. Control alignment, heat input and any required backing or internal shielding arrangements.
Protect soft seats, packing and body seals from welding heat and spatter. Follow the valve manufacturer’s instructions for removing the central assembly or heat-sensitive components before completing the welds. Any post-weld heat treatment must be assessed against the valve construction.
Allow the welded ends to cool, clean the sealing-contact surfaces and remove welding debris before reassembly. Apply the specified body-bolt tightening sequence and torque, then verify operation and leakage performance.
Pressure and Operating Conditions
The published range covers DN15–DN100, with 1200 WOG listed for DN15–DN40 and 1000 WOG for DN50–DN100. Confirm the applicable rating for each material configuration and operating temperature.
WOG ratings should not be treated as steam ratings. Hot-fluid and steam duties require the complete pressure–temperature data, including PTFE sealing limitations.
Use the valve primarily for on/off isolation. Prolonged throttling, abrasive particles or crystallizing fluids require additional assessment. Provide adequate pipe support and maintenance clearance around the central body.
Compare Another Connection Type
Compare the Three-Piece Threaded Ball Valve when evaluating threaded connections and their installation requirements.
