Both floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves are widely used in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, and water management, but they cater to vastly different needs.
The reliability and efficiency of the system hinge on one crucial decision: the choice of valve.
These valves might appear similar at first glance, yet their design, functionality, and applications set them worlds apart.
Understanding these differences isn’t just technical trivia—it’s the key to optimizing performance, reducing costs, and avoiding costly downtime. Read on as this article will help you make the right decision for your system.
What is a Trunnion Ball Valve?
A trunnion ball valve features a ball supported by a trunnion or mechanical anchor at its base, which holds it firmly in place.
This design makes it ideal for managing high-pressure applications. The trunnion design also reduces torque requirements, making these valves easier to operate manually or through automation.
Optimize your operations with our reliable Trunnion ball valves!
What is a Floating Ball Valve?
In contrast, a floating ball valve has a ball that is not anchored but “floats” between two valve seats.
This type relies on fluid pressure to press the ball against the downstream seat to ensure a tight seal.
Floating ball valves are simpler in design, making them cost-effective and suitable for medium-pressure applications.
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Which is Better: Floating Ball Valve or Trunnion Ball Valve?
The choice between these two depends on your system’s requirements. Here’s an overview:
| Feature | Floating Ball Valve | Trunnion Ball Valve |
| Design | Simple, floating ball | Anchored with trunnion support |
| Pressure Handling | Medium | High |
| Torque Requirements | Higher | Lower |
| Applications | Medium-pressure systems | High-pressure or large systems |
| Cost | More affordable | Higher cost |
Let’s dive deeper into the specific factors.
1. Ball Valve Design and Structure
Floating ball valves have a basic structure with fewer components, while trunnion ball valves incorporate additional supports. The latter’s design minimizes movement under high pressure, ensuring better stability and performance.
2. Operating Principle
The floating ball valve relies on fluid pressure to maintain a seal, while the trunnion valve has a fixed ball that remains stationary, even under intense pressure. This makes trunnion valves more reliable in high-stakes applications.
3. Pressure Handling
Floating ball valves are best suited for medium pressures. Trunnion ball valves excel in high-pressure environments, such as in oil and gas operations or petrochemical plants.
4. Torque Requirements
Trunnion valves require less torque, thanks to their mechanical supports. This feature reduces wear on valve components and ensures smoother operations, even with frequent use.
5. Automation Compatibility
Both types can be automated, but trunnion ball valves are better suited for automated systems due to their lower torque requirements and enhanced stability.
6. Applications & Use Cases
Floating ball valves are commonly used in water treatment plants, HVAC systems, and medium-pressure pipelines. Trunnion valves, on the other hand, dominate high-pressure systems like oil refineries, chemical plants, and offshore rigs.
7. Maintenance and Durability
Floating ball valves are simpler to maintain because of their fewer parts. However, trunnion valves offer greater durability under extreme conditions, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
8. Cost Comparison
Floating ball valves are more affordable upfront. Trunnion ball valves, though costlier, deliver long-term value in demanding applications, balancing initial investment with operational efficiency.
Choosing the Right Ball Valve
Selecting the right ball valve is crucial for ensuring system efficiency, safety, and longevity. The decision should be based on several critical factors:
Assess Pressure Levels
Determine the maximum operating pressure of your system. Floating ball valves are best for medium-pressure applications, while trunnion ball valves excel under high-pressure conditions due to their sturdy design and reduced torque requirements.
Analyze Operating Frequency
Systems with frequent valve operation may benefit from trunnion valves due to their lower torque requirements and ease of automation. Floating ball valves, while reliable, may require more effort in high-use scenarios.
Include Torque Requirements
The effort needed to open or close a valve can affect manual operations and the suitability for actuator use. Trunnion valves typically require less torque, making them preferable for automated systems.
Check Fluid Type
Consider the characteristics of the fluid, such as viscosity, temperature, and corrosiveness. Materials used in both valve types should be compatible with the fluid to prevent damage and ensure longevity.
Consider Budget Constraints
Floating ball valves are often more cost-effective, making them suitable for systems with moderate requirements. Trunnion valves, while more expensive, provide superior durability and performance for demanding environments.
Review Application Scale
For large-scale operations or critical pipelines, trunnion ball valves offer enhanced stability and safety, while smaller systems may effectively utilize floating ball valves.
Exploring ONERO Valve’s Floating Ball Valves
ONERO Valve’s floating ball valves are a testament to precision engineering and robust performance, crafted for medium-pressure systems where reliability is critical.
Constructed with high-grade stainless steel, these valves offer excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for industries like water treatment, HVAC, and general industrial applications.
Key features include:
- Compact Design with Leak-Free Sealing: The floating ball mechanism ensures tight sealing by utilizing the system’s pressure, minimizing the risk of leaks even under fluctuating conditions.
- Wide Material Options: From stainless steel to PTFE seals, ONERO’s floating ball valves accommodate a variety of fluids, including corrosive chemicals, ensuring longevity and compatibility.
- Ease of Maintenance: With a simple structure and fewer moving parts, these valves require minimal upkeep, translating to reduced downtime and operational costs.
These valves are designed for reliability and versatility, offering a cost-effective solution without compromising performance.
ONERO Valve’s Trunnion Ball Valves
For heavy-duty applications that demand strength and precision, ONERO Valve’s trunnion ball valves deliver unparalleled performance.
Engineered to handle high pressures and large-scale operations, these valves are built to withstand the most demanding industrial conditions.
Key features include:
- Enhanced Stability with Trunnion Support: Unlike floating designs, the trunnion mechanism secures the ball in place, reducing torque requirements and ensuring consistent performance under high pressures.
- High-Grade Materials for Extreme Conditions: Crafted from materials like forged carbon steel or stainless steel, these valves resist extreme temperatures, pressures, and corrosive environments, ensuring durability and safety.
- Advanced Sealing Technology: Dual-seal designs provide enhanced leak prevention, making them ideal for oil and gas pipelines, chemical processing plants, and offshore platforms.
- Automation Compatibility: With features tailored for actuator integration, these valves simplify automation for large-scale systems, ensuring seamless operation and control.
ONERO’s trunnion ball valves are a powerful combination of innovation, strength, and durability.
Floating Ball Valve vs Trunnion FAQs
What are the advantages of a floating ball valve?
Floating ball valves offer a simple design with fewer components, making them cost-effective and easy to maintain. They provide a reliable seal as fluid pressure pushes the ball against the downstream seat, ensuring leak-proof performance. Their versatility allows them to be used in medium-pressure applications and systems that handle a variety of fluids.
When to use a trunnion ball valve?
Trunnion ball valves are ideal for high-pressure, high-volume systems where stability and durability are critical. Their fixed-ball design reduces torque requirements, making them suitable for automated or frequent operations. These valves excel in industries like oil and gas, petrochemicals, and heavy-duty applications requiring precise control under extreme conditions.
What is the best type of float valve?
The best float valve depends on the application. For residential tanks, plastic or brass float valves are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. In industrial settings, stainless steel float valves are preferred for their strength, durability, and ability to withstand high pressures and temperatures, ensuring long-term reliability and safety.
How do floating ball valves seal?
Floating ball valves seal by utilizing fluid pressure. The pressure pushes the ball against the downstream seat, creating a tight, leak-proof seal. This self-sealing mechanism ensures reliable performance in medium-pressure systems and makes them effective for controlling fluid flow in diverse applications.
Floating Ball Valve vs Trunnion Ball Valve: Conclusion
Both floating and trunnion ball valves are indispensable in industrial systems, but each caters to specific needs.
By understanding their key differences, you can select the right valve type for your application, ensuring efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
For high-quality solutions, trust ONERO Valve’s extensive range of floating and trunnion ball valves.
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