Ball Valves & Butterfly Valves Guide – Types, Selection, Applications 4

 

 

Are you struggling to choose between a ball valve and a butterfly valve for your industrial application? Making the wrong choice can lead to system inefficiency, frequent maintenance, and costly downtime. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand everything about ball valves and butterfly valves to make the perfect selection for your needs.

At IndustryWala, we supply premium quality ball valves and butterfly valves for diverse industrial applications. Let’s explore these essential flow control components in detail.

Understanding Ball Valves: The Versatile Flow Control Solution

Ball valves use a spherical disc (ball) with a hole through its center to control flow. When the valve is open, the hole aligns with the flow path. A quarter turn rotates the ball 90 degrees to close the valve completely.

Why Ball Valves Are Industry Favorites

Key Advantages:

• Quick quarter-turn operation (90-degree rotation)
• Tight shut-off with minimal leakage
• Low pressure drop when fully open
• Bidirectional flow capability
• Easy operation and maintenance
• Long service life with minimal wear
• Suitable for high-pressure applications
• Compact design saves space

Types of Ball Valves We Supply

1. 2 Way Ball Valve Brass Screwed End

The most common ball valve configuration, providing simple on/off flow control with excellent reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Construction Features

Body Material:

• Brass (forged construction)
• Chrome-plated finish for corrosion resistance
• Dezincification resistant (DZR) brass available
• Lead-free options for drinking water

Technical Specifications:

• Sizes Available: 1/4″ to 4″ (DN 8 to DN 100)
• Thread Type: BSP (British Standard Pipe) or NPT (National Pipe Thread)
• Pressure Rating: PN 16, PN 25, PN 40 (16 bar to 40 bar)
• Temperature Range: -20°C to +180°C
• Port Configuration: Full bore or reduced bore
• Handle Type: Lever handle (standard) or butterfly handle

Full Bore vs Reduced Bore:

• Full Bore: Ball opening equals pipe diameter (minimal pressure drop)
• Reduced Bore: Ball opening one size smaller (economical, higher pressure drop)

Applications

Water Systems:

• Residential plumbing
• Commercial water supply
• Cooling water circuits
• Fire fighting systems

HVAC Applications:

• Heating systems
• Chilled water lines
• Air conditioning units
• Boiler feed lines

Industrial Use:

• Compressed air lines
• Hydraulic systems
• General utility services
• Process water control

Selection Guidelines:

• Use full bore for steam and high-flow applications
• Choose reduced bore for cost-effective general service
• Select chrome-plated for outdoor installations
• DZR brass essential for hot water systems

2. 3 Way Ball Valve Brass L Port T Port

Three-way ball valves offer flow diversion or mixing capabilities with a single valve, replacing complex piping arrangements.

L Port Configuration

Flow Pattern:

• Connects inlet to either of two outlets
• 90-degree flow diversion
• Cannot close all three ports simultaneously
• Ideal for diverting flow between two paths

Typical Applications:

• Bypass circuits
• Flow diversion between two tanks
• Alternate equipment selection
• Simple mixing applications

T Port Configuration

Flow Pattern:

• Can connect inlet to both outlets simultaneously
• Allows mixing of two streams
• Straight-through flow in one position
• Versatile flow control options

Applications:

• Mixing hot and cold water
• Temperature control circuits
• Blending two fluids
• Flow distribution systems

Technical Specifications:

• Sizes: 1/2″ to 2″ (DN 15 to DN 50)
• Pressure: PN 16 to PN 40
• Mounting: ISO 5211 mounting pad for automation
• Operation: Manual lever or actuated
• Ports: Labeled A (inlet), B and C (outlets)
• Body: Brass forged, nickel plated

Selection Tips:

• L Port for simple diversion (one direction at a time)
• T Port for mixing or simultaneous flow
• Consider flow pattern carefully during system design
• Larger sizes available in stainless steel

3. Stainless Steel Ball Valve 316 CF8M

Premium stainless steel ball valves provide superior corrosion resistance and durability for demanding applications.

Material Specifications

Body Material:

• SS 316 (CF8M): Marine-grade stainless steel
• Composition: 16-18% Chromium, 10-14% Nickel, 2-3% Molybdenum
• Corrosion Resistance: Excellent against acids, chlorides, and marine environments
• Temperature Range: -40°C to +232°C

Component Materials:

• Ball: SS 316 polished to Ra 0.8μm
• Stem: SS 316 with anti-blowout design
• Seats: PTFE (standard) or RPTFE (high temp)
• Seals: Viton, EPDM, or PTFE based on media
• Handle: SS 304 lever or lockable type

Technical Features

Pressure Ratings:

• 1000 WOG: Working pressure 1000 PSI (water, oil, gas)
• PN 16: 16 bar working pressure
• PN 40: 40 bar working pressure
• PN 64: 64 bar for high-pressure applications
• 3000 PSI: Available for extreme pressure service

End Connections:

• Screwed ends (NPT or BSP threads)
• Socket weld ends
• Butt weld ends
• Flanged ends (ANSI 150, 300)
• Tri-clamp (sanitary applications)

Applications by Industry

Chemical Processing:

• Acid and alkali handling
• Solvent transfer systems
• Chemical injection lines
• Reactor feed control

Pharmaceutical:

• Clean steam systems
• WFI (Water For Injection) lines
• Sterile process media
• CIP/SIP systems

Food & Beverage:

• Dairy processing
• Brewing systems
• Beverage production
• Sanitary applications

Marine & Offshore:

• Seawater systems
• Saltwater handling
• Deck equipment
• Ballast systems

Oil & Gas:

• Natural gas service
• Crude oil transfer
• Refinery applications
• Petrochemical plants

Advantages Over Brass:

• Superior corrosion resistance
• Higher temperature capability
• Longer service life
• Hygienic surface finish
• No contamination of media

4. High Pressure Ball Valve 3000 PSI

Engineered for extreme pressure applications requiring maximum strength and reliability.

Construction:

• Forged steel body (carbon steel or stainless steel)
• Three-piece design for easy maintenance
• Heavy-duty ball and stem
• Reinforced seats and seals
• Double-block and bleed capability (optional)

Specifications:

• Pressure: Up to 3000 PSI (207 bar)
• Sizes: 1/4″ to 4″
• Temperature: -29°C to +232°C
• Standards: API 6D, ASME B16.34
• Testing: Hydrostatic tested to 1.5× rated pressure

Applications:

• High-pressure hydraulic systems
• Gas compression stations
• Well head control
• High-pressure steam lines
• Hydraulic power units

5. Motorised Ball Valve Electric Actuator 220V

Automated ball valves provide remote control, scheduled operation, and integration with control systems.

Electric Actuator Features

Actuator Specifications:

• Voltage: 220V AC single phase (24V, 110V available)
• Torque: 5 Nm to 500 Nm (size dependent)
• Operating time: 15-30 seconds for 90° rotation
• Duty cycle: S4 – 25% (intermittent operation)
• Protection: IP 67 (waterproof) or IP 65
• Manual override: Hand wheel for emergency operation

Control Options:

• On/Off control (open/close)
• Modulating control (0-100% positioning)
• 2-wire control (open/close signals)
• 3-wire control (open/close/common)
• 4-20mA signal for proportional control
• Feedback signals (limit switches, positioner)

Automation Benefits:

• Remote operation from control room
• Scheduled automatic operation
• Integration with BMS/SCADA systems
• Reduced labor costs
• Faster response time
• Consistent operation
• Safety isolation

Applications

Building Automation:

• HVAC system control
• Chilled water distribution
• Heating circuit control
• Cooling tower management

Industrial Automation:

• Process control systems
• Automated batching
• Tank level control
• Flow distribution

Water Treatment:

• Filtration system control
• Chemical dosing lines
• Backwash automation
• Distribution valve control

Selection Criteria:

• Calculate required torque (valve size dependent)
• Choose voltage matching your control system
• Consider environment (IP rating)
• Define control requirements (on/off vs modulating)
• Check duty cycle for frequent operation

6. Pneumatic Actuated Ball Valve Double Acting

Pneumatic actuation provides fast operation, fail-safe capability, and explosive-environment safety.

Double Acting Pneumatic Actuator:

• Uses compressed air for both opening and closing
• Faster operation than electric (2-5 seconds)
• More powerful for large valves
• Air supply: 4-7 bar (60-100 PSI)
• Fail position: Requires accessories (fail-safe springs)

Single Acting Option:

• Spring return mechanism
• Fails to safe position (open or closed)
• More expensive due to springs
• Ideal for critical safety applications

Accessories:

• Solenoid valve (5/2 or 5/3 way)
• Limit switches (position feedback)
• Positioner for modulating control
• Air filter regulator lubricator (FRL unit)
• Manual override lever

Applications:

• Hazardous area installations (Zone 1, Zone 2)
• High-cycle applications
• Emergency shutdown systems (ESD)
• Fast-acting isolation
• Pharmaceutical clean rooms

7. Flanged End Ball Valve Cast Steel

Heavy-duty ball valves with flanged connections for large-diameter, high-pressure piping systems.

Construction:

• Body: Cast steel ASTM A216 WCB
• Flanges: ANSI B16.5 Class 150, 300, 600
• Ball: Stainless steel 316
• Seats: Metal or soft seats
• Design: Floating ball or trunnion mounted

Specifications:

• Sizes: 2″ to 24″ (DN 50 to DN 600)
• Pressure: PN 16 to PN 100
• Face-to-face: ASME B16.10
• Flange drilling: ANSI B16.5 or DIN PN standards
• Fire safe: API 607 certified (optional)

Applications:

• Water treatment plants
• Power generation
• Oil and gas pipelines
• Chemical plants
• Large utility services

8. Full Bore Ball Valve PN16 PN25 PN40

Pressure rating classification ensures proper valve selection for system pressure requirements.

Pressure Class Guide:

• PN 16: 16 bar (232 PSI) – Low pressure, general service
• PN 25: 25 bar (363 PSI) – Medium pressure, industrial
• PN 40: 40 bar (580 PSI) – High pressure, critical applications

Full Bore Benefits:

• Unrestricted flow path
• Minimum pressure drop
• Pigging capability (pipeline cleaning)
• Higher flow capacity
• Suitable for viscous fluids

Applications by Pressure Rating:

• PN 16: Building services, HVAC, water supply
• PN 25: Process industries, chemical plants
• PN 40: Steam systems, high-pressure water, hydraulics

Understanding Butterfly Valves: Efficient Flow Control

Butterfly valves use a disc that rotates on a shaft perpendicular to the flow direction. Quarter-turn operation provides quick opening/closing with minimal space requirement.

Butterfly Valve Advantages

Key Benefits:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Lower cost than gate or ball valves (large sizes)
• Fast operation (90-degree quarter turn)
• Minimal maintenance required
• Suitable for large diameter applications
• Low pressure drop when fully open
• Throttling capability for flow control

Types of Butterfly Valves

1. Wafer Type Butterfly Valve Cast Iron PN10 PN16

Most economical butterfly valve design, held between flanges with through-bolts.

Wafer Design Features:

• Fits between ANSI or DIN flanges
• No dedicated flange connection on valve
• Through-bolts hold valve in place
• Compact face-to-face dimension
• Cannot isolate downstream piping
• Suitable for low-pressure applications

Material Specifications:

• Body: Cast iron GG25 or Ductile iron GGG40
• Disc: Ductile iron with EPDM or NBR coating
• Seat: EPDM (water), NBR (oil), Viton (chemicals)
• Stem: SS 304 or SS 316
• Bearings: Sealed ball bearings

Technical Data:

• Sizes: 2″ to 24″ (DN 50 to DN 600)
• Pressure: PN 10 (10 bar) or PN 16 (16 bar)
• Temperature: -10°C to +120°C (EPDM seat)
• Standards: DIN 3202-K1
• Face-to-face: EN 558-1 Series 20

Applications:

• Water supply systems
• Sewage treatment plants
• HVAC systems
• Irrigation systems
• Low-pressure chemical service

Installation Requirements:

• Ensure flanges are parallel and aligned
• Use full-length studs/bolts
• Do not over-tighten (can deform disc)
• Install with disc in closed position
• Verify adequate clearance for handle operation

2. Lug Type Butterfly Valve Ductile Iron

Lug-style butterfly valves have threaded inserts (lugs) allowing independent connection to each flange.

Lug Type Advantages Over Wafer:

• Each flange connects independently
• Can isolate downstream piping
• Easier installation and removal
• Acts as end-of-line valve
• Dead-end service capability
• Better for frequent disassembly

Construction:

• Body: Ductile iron GGG40 (superior strength)
• Lug inserts: SS 304 threaded inserts
• Disc: Nickel-plated ductile iron
• Seat: Replaceable EPDM or Viton
• Shaft: SS 316 with double O-ring seals

Specifications:

• Sizes: 2″ to 48″ (DN 50 to DN 1200)
• Pressure: PN 10, PN 16, PN 25
• Flange: DIN PN 10/16 or ANSI 150
• Seat: Molded or bonded to body
• Bubble tight shut-off to API 598

Applications:

• Process industries
• Chemical plants
• Water treatment
• Power plants
• Dead-end service

3. Flanged Butterfly Valve ANSI 150 300

Flanged butterfly valves have integral flanges on both sides, providing maximum strength and pressure rating.

Flanged Type Features:

• Permanently attached flanges
• Highest structural strength
• Suitable for high-pressure service
• Standard bolt hole patterns
• Easier alignment during installation
• Longer face-to-face dimension

Pressure Classes:

• ANSI 150: 19.6 bar at 38°C (285 PSI)
• ANSI 300: 51 bar at 38°C (740 PSI)
• Higher pressures at reduced temperatures

Materials:

• Body: Carbon steel ASTM A216 WCB or stainless steel CF8M
• Disc: SS 316 or duplex stainless steel
• Seat: RPTFE (reinforced PTFE) for high temp
• Shaft: SS 316 with anti-blowout design
• Flanges: RF (raised face) or FF (flat face)

Applications:

• High-pressure water systems
• Steam service (RPTFE seats)
• Oil and gas industry
• Power generation
• Slurry service (metal seated)

4. Pneumatic Butterfly Valve with Actuator

Automated butterfly valves provide efficient control for large-diameter pipelines with minimal actuator power.

Pneumatic Actuator Types:

Rack and Pinion:

• Compact design
• High torque output
• Double acting or spring return
• 90-degree rotation
• Sizes up to DN 300

Scotch Yoke:

• Higher torque for large valves
• More economical for big sizes
• Robust construction
• Sizes DN 300 and above

Specifications:

• Air supply: 4-7 bar
• Operation time: 1-15 seconds (size dependent)
• Temperature: -20°C to +80°C
• Enclosure: Aluminum, painted steel, or stainless steel
• Mounting: ISO 5211 direct mount

Control Accessories:

• 5/2 way solenoid valve for on/off control
• Positioner for modulating control (4-20mA)
• Limit switches for position feedback
• Visual position indicator
• Manual override gearbox

Applications:

• Water distribution networks
• Sewage treatment automation
• Process control systems
• HVAC central plants
• Fire protection systems

5. Electric Butterfly Valve Motorised

Electric actuators provide precise position control and easy integration with building automation systems.

Electric Actuator Features:

• Voltage: 24V, 110V, 220V, or 380V
• Torque range: 20 Nm to 2000 Nm
• Operating time: 15-90 seconds
• Protection: IP 67 (outdoor rated)
• Control: On/off or modulating
• Feedback: 4-20mA, potentiometer, or relay

Modulating Control:

• 0-100% valve positioning
• Proportional control based on process variable
• PID loop integration
• Fast response for precise flow control
• Energy-efficient operation

Applications:

• Building management systems (BMS)
• District heating/cooling
• Chilled water optimization
• Process automation
• Wastewater treatment

6. High Performance Butterfly Valve Triple Offset

Premium butterfly valve design offering bubble-tight shut-off and bidirectional sealing for critical applications.

Triple Offset Design:

1. First Offset: Shaft centerline offset from disc centerline
2. Second Offset: Shaft centerline offset from seat centerline
3. Third Offset: Seat cone angle offset from shaft axis

Benefits of Triple Offset:

• Zero friction during opening/closing (90% of travel)
• Metal-to-metal sealing (no soft seats)
• Bidirectional tight shut-off
• Fire-safe design
• Extended service life
• High temperature capability (-196°C to +600°C)

Applications:

• High-temperature steam service
• Cryogenic applications (LNG)
• Oil and gas pipelines
• Power plant main steam lines
• Critical isolation service
• Fire-safe requirements

Specifications:

• Pressure: Up to PN 100 / Class 600
• Temperature: -196°C to +600°C
• Standards: API 609, ISO 5752
• Testing: API 598, ISO 5208 Rate A
• Fire safe: API 607, BS 6755

7. Soft Seated Butterfly Valve EPDM NBR

Seat material selection is critical for proper sealing and chemical compatibility.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer):

• Best for: Water, steam, alkalis, ketones
• Temperature: -30°C to +140°C (continuous)
• Not suitable for: Petroleum oils, fuels, aromatic hydrocarbons
• Applications: Water treatment, HVAC, food processing

NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber):

• Best for: Petroleum oils, hydraulic fluids, fuels, greases
• Temperature: -20°C to +90°C
• Not suitable for: Ozone, ketones, strong acids
• Applications: Hydraulic systems, oil refining, fuel handling

Viton (FKM – Fluoroelastomer):

• Best for: Chemicals, acids, fuels, high temperatures
• Temperature: -20°C to +200°C
• Expensive but versatile: Broad chemical compatibility
• Applications: Chemical processing, pharmaceutical, aggressive media

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene):

• Best for: Universal chemical resistance
• Temperature: -40°C to +200°C
• Excellent: Almost no chemical attacks PTFE
• Applications: Acids, alkalis, solvents, ultra-pure systems

8. Fire Safe Butterfly Valve API 609

Fire-safe butterfly valves maintain shut-off capability even after exposure to fire conditions.

Fire Safe Requirements:

• Maintain sealing during fire (API 607 test)
• Secondary metal sealing when soft seat burns
• All-metal construction option
• Temperature rating to 750°C (fire conditions)
• Leakage within acceptable limits after fire test

Test Standards:

• API 607: Fire test for quarter-turn valves
• BS 6755: Fire testing procedures
• ISO 10497: Fire testing protocol

Applications:

• Oil refineries
• Petrochemical plants
• LPG/LNG terminals
• Storage tank isolation
• Pipeline safety valves
• Fire water systems

Ball Valve vs Butterfly Valve: Selection Guide

When to Choose Ball Valves

Best Applications:

• Small to medium pipe sizes (up to 6 inches economical)
• High-pressure service
• Gas service (tight shut-off critical)
• Frequent operation
• Minimal pressure drop required
• Isolation service (bubble-tight shut-off)

Ball Valve Advantages:

• Better shut-off (zero leakage)
• Higher pressure rating
• Suitable for gases
• Longer service life with minimal maintenance
• Better for throttling (V-port ball valves)

When to Choose Butterfly Valves

Best Applications:

• Large pipe sizes (DN 200 and above most economical)
• Low to medium pressure
• Water and wastewater service
• Space-constrained installations
• Budget-conscious projects
• Infrequent operation

Butterfly Valve Advantages:

• Much lower cost in large sizes
• Lightweight and compact
• Fast operation
• Lower installation cost
• Suitable for slurries (proper design)
• Throttling capability

Installation and Maintenance Best Practices

Ball Valve Installation

Pre-Installation:

1. Verify valve specifications match application
2. Check pressure and temperature ratings
3. Ensure proper orientation (flow arrow)
4. Inspect valve for shipping damage
5. Clean internal passages

Installation Steps:

1. Install with handle accessible
2. Use proper thread sealant or PTFE tape
3. Support piping adequately (don’t stress valve)
4. For flanged valves, align flanges properly
5. Tighten bolts in star pattern
6. Operate valve several times before pressurizing

Maintenance:

• Quarterly: Operate valve full range
• Annually: Check for leaks, lubricate stem
• Every 2-3 years: Replace packing if leaking
• Every 5 years: Consider rebuild or replacement

Butterfly Valve Installation

Installation Guidelines:

1. Check disc can rotate freely before installation
2. Install with disc in closed position
3. Ensure flanges are parallel (within 1mm)
4. Use proper length bolts (through-bolts for wafer type)
5. Tighten bolts gradually in cross pattern
6. Don’t over-tighten (can damage disc or seat)
7. Verify adequate clearance for handle/actuator

Commissioning:

1. Open valve slowly first time
2. Check for leaks at shaft seals
3. Verify smooth operation through full range
4. Adjust limit stops on actuated valves
5. Test emergency manual override

Maintenance:

• Monthly: Visual inspection for leaks
• Quarterly: Full-stroke operation
• Annually: Lubricate shaft bearings
• Every 3-5 years: Replace seat/seals
• Check for disc damage or corrosion

Why Choose IndustryWala for Valves

Quality Assurance

Certified Products:

• ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
• Pressure tested before dispatch
• Material test reports provided
• Compliance with international standards
• Factory test certificates included

Quality Standards:

• Ball Valves: BS 5351, API 608, ASME B16.34
• Butterfly Valves: API 609, BS EN 593, ISO 5752

Technical Support

Pre-Sales:

• Application engineering assistance
• Valve selection guidance
• Sizing calculations
• Material compatibility advice
• Custom specification review

Post-Sales:

• Installation guidelines
• Troubleshooting support
• Spare parts availability
• Maintenance training
• 24/7 technical helpline

Comprehensive Inventory

Ball Valves:

• Brass: 1/4″ to 4″ (all pressure ratings)
• Stainless steel: 1/4″ to 6″ (SS 304, SS 316)
• Carbon steel: 1/2″ to 24″ (flanged)
• Actuated: Electric and pneumatic (all sizes)

Butterfly Valves:

• Wafer type: 2″ to 24″ (PN 10/16)
• Lug type: 2″ to 48″ (PN 10/16/25)
• Flanged: 2″ to 60″ (ANSI 150/300)
• Actuated: Complete with accessories

Competitive Pricing

• Direct factory sourcing
• Volume discounts available
• Combination package deals
• Seasonal promotions
• Bulk order special pricing
• Transparent quotations

Industries We Serve

Water & Wastewater:

• Municipal water supply
• Sewage treatment plants
• Desalination plants
• Irrigation systems

Oil & Gas:

• Refineries
• Petrochemical plants
• Pipelines
• Storage terminals

Chemical Processing:

• Chemical plants
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Specialty chemicals
• Fertilizer production

Power Generation:

• Thermal power plants
• Hydroelectric facilities
• Nuclear power (special materials)
• Renewable energy

HVAC & Building Services:

• Chilled water systems
• Heating systems
• Cooling towers
• District heating/cooling

Food & Beverage:

• Food processing
• Dairy industry
• Breweries
• Beverage production

Quick Selection Chart

Application	Pipe Size	Pressure	Recommended Valve
Domestic water	Up to 2″	Low	Brass ball valve
Industrial water	2″-6″	Medium	SS ball valve or butterfly
Large water main	6″+	Low-Medium	Butterfly valve
Steam service	Any	High	SS ball valve or metal-seated butterfly
Chemical service	Any	Any	SS 316 ball or lined butterfly
Slurry service	3″+	Low	Lug butterfly valve
Gas service	Any	Any	Ball valve (tight shut-off)
Automated control	Any	Any	Motorized/pneumatic (valve type based on above)

Contact Industrywala for Valve Solutions

Get expert guidance on selecting the perfect valve for your application.

Phone: +91 91724 86442‬ Email: support@industrywala.co Website: www.industrywala.co

Services We Offer:

• Free technical consultation
• Valve sizing calculations
• Material selection guidance
• Custom valve sourcing
• Complete package solutions
• Installation support
• Spare parts supply

Order Process:

1. Contact us with your requirements
2. Receive technical recommendation
3. Get competitive quotation
4. Place order
5. Fast delivery to your location
6. Post-sales technical support

Don’t compromise on valve quality. Choose IndustryWala for reliable ball valves and butterfly valves that deliver long-lasting performance. Contact us today for expert advice and competitive pricing!

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Categories: Industrial Valves, Flow Control, Process Equipment, Automation Components