API vs ASME Standards Industrial Ball Valve: 7 Main Differences

When it comes to industrial ball valves, the right standards are very important. Standards make sure that valves work well and stay safe in hard conditions. Two common standards are API and ASME. 

What is API? API stands for the American Petroleum Institute. ASME stands for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Both groups set rules for how industrial ball valves should be made and tested.

But what’s the difference between API vs ASME standards? While both focus on quality, they are made for different situations and needs. 

In this article, we will look at the main differences between API and ASME standards.

API vs ASME Standards for Industrial Ball Valves

Feature	API	ASME
Who Sets Rules?	Oil & Gas Industry	Many Industries
Where Used?	Oil rigs, pipelines	Factories, water systems
Design	Special for oil & gas	Flexible for different uses
Pressure & Heat	High pressure, high heat	Wide range
Materials	Strong (like steel)	Variety of materials
Testing	Strict for safety	General testing
Durability	Long-lasting, low maintenance	Durable, more checks needed

1. Standards Development

Who Makes the Rules?

API standards are made by the American Petroleum Institute. This group focuses on the oil and gas industries. Their rules help equipment work safely with oil and gas. 

On the other hand, ASME standards come from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. ASME covers a wide range of industries, including factories, power plants, and more.

What This Means for Valves

API standards are focused on equipment that handles oil and gas. ASME standards are for valves that can be used in many different industries. This is why API standards are usually seen in oil rigs or pipelines, while ASME standards are common in factories and water plants. 

ONERO’s industrial ball valves are designed to meet these standards for a range of applications.

2. Applicable Industry

Where Do You Use API and ASME Valves?

API valves are made for the oil and gas industries. They are used in places where oil, gas, and other fuels are handled. ASME valves, however, are used in many industries. You might see them in chemical plants, water systems, and power plants.

Why This Matters

The industry matters because each one has different needs. For example, oil and gas industries need valves that can handle explosive materials. ASME valves are built for flexibility across many different systems.

3. Design Requirements

How Are API and ASME Valves Designed?

API standards have specific rules for how valves should be designed. For example, API valves need API flanges, which connect pipes securely. ASME standards also cover design but focus on a wider range of connections, not just API flanges.

Why This Matters

API valves are often more specialized. They have strict designs to fit oil and gas systems. ASME valves have more general design options, so they work well in different industries.

4. Pressure and Temperature Range

How Much Pressure and Heat Can They Handle?

API and ASME standards each have limits for pressure and temperature. API valves are made for high pressure and heat, often found in oil and gas work. ASME valves also handle pressure and heat but cover a wider range of conditions.

Why This Matters

In oil and gas, valves face extreme conditions. API standards make sure valves can handle these without breaking. ASME valves have pressure and temperature limits that suit many industries, including ones with lower heat.

5. Material Selection

What Materials Are Used?

API standards often require strong materials like steel that can resist corrosion and handle high pressure. ASME standards use a variety of materials, from steel to lighter metals, depending on the job.

Why This Matters

API valves need tough materials to handle oil, gas, and chemicals. ASME valves can use different materials since they serve a wider range of uses. ONERO’s ball valves follow both API and ASME material standards for durability.

6. Testing Requirements

How Are API and ASME Valves Tested?

API standards require strict testing, especially for leaks and safety. These valves often go through pressure tests to make sure they can handle the job. ASME standards also require testing but may focus more on the general function than on extreme conditions.

Why This Matters

Testing ensures safety. API tests make sure valves work in high-risk areas. ASME testing is also careful but may not need to be as tough, depending on the industry.

7. Maintenance and Durability

How Long Do They Last and How Much Care Do They Need?

API valves are built to last in tough conditions with little maintenance. This is because oil and gas work is constant, so valves must be durable. ASME valves are also durable but may need more regular checks.

Why This Matters

In industries like oil and gas, stopping for repairs costs a lot. API valves help reduce downtime. ASME valves, while still strong, are made to handle a variety of uses, so they may need more frequent inspections.

When to Choose an API Standards Industrial Ball Valve

API valves are best for the oil and gas industries. They are designed for high pressure, high temperature, and high safety needs. API valves are tested for the extreme conditions found in oil and gas fields, making them reliable under stress.

Why Use API Standards?
API standards ensure that the valve will not fail even in harsh conditions. These standards are strict to keep workers safe and protect the environment. If you need a valve that can handle intense use, an API-certified valve is the way to go.

When to Choose an ASME Standards Industrial Ball Valve

ASME valves are ideal for general industrial use. They work well in water systems, power plants, and factories. ASME valves offer more flexibility, as they can handle a range of pressures and temperatures.

Why Use ASME Standards?
ASME standards fit a variety of needs, making them a versatile choice. They’re tested for durability but don’t need to handle the intense conditions of oil and gas fields. If you need a valve for a factory or a plant, an ASME-certified valve is likely a good choice.

ONERO’s ASME-certified valves are designed to meet these needs, offering durability and reliability.

Conclusion

Both API and ASME standards play a key role in industrial ball valves. API valves are tailored for the oil and gas industry, making them tough and safe in extreme conditions. ASME valves offer flexibility, fitting a wide range of industries.

Choosing between API and ASME standards depends on your needs. For intense conditions and high pressure, API valves are best. For general industrial work, ASME valves are often a better choice. 

At ONERO, we offer both API and ASME-certified valves to meet different industry needs. Visit our product page to find the right valve for your job or contact us for more information.

Resources

• Standards
• Setting the Standard, The American Society of Mechanical Engineers