Stainless steel ball valves

Stainless steel ball valves are a type of quarter-turn valve that:

1. Control fluid flow by rotating a spherical ball with a hole (port) through it.
2. Allow for on/off or throttling control.
3. Consist of:
    - Body: Stainless steel housing containing the valve mechanism.
    - Ball: Rotating sphere with a port that controls flow.
    - Stem: Connects the ball to the actuator (handle or gearbox).
    - Seats: Surfaces that seal when the valve is closed.
    - Packing: Seals around the stem to prevent leaks.
4. Operate in various ways:
    - Manual (handle or wheel)
    - Actuated (electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic)

Stainless steel ball valves are suitable for:

1. Corrosive applications (chemical processing, marine environments)
2. High-purity applications (food processing, pharmaceuticals)
3. High-temperature applications (steam, oil, gas)
4. High-pressure applications (up to 1000 bar/14500 psi)

Advantages:

1. Corrosion-resistant
2. High-temperature resistance
3. Low maintenance
4. High flow rates
5. Bidirectional flow capability

Disadvantages:

1. Higher cost compared to other valve types
2. May require additional maintenance for packing and seats

Common applications:

1. Chemical processing
2. Food and beverage processing
3. Pharmaceutical processing
4. Oil and gas refining
5. Marine environments