Ball Valve Buying Guide (2021 Update) - DBV valve

28 Jul.,2025

 

Ball Valve Buying Guide ( Update) - DBV valve

There are different types of ball valves with various designs for various uses. But the fundamental ball valve part is common among them. The ball valve can be classified based on the following features:
  • Number of ports
  • Design
  • Bore size
  • Ball access
  • Seat type
  • Body assembly etc.

We will review the most common and popular ones here in detail.

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Full Port Ball Valve

The full port ball valve is one of the most expensive ball valves. In this type of ball valve, the hole is oversized, allowing unrestricted flow of material (liquid, gases, vapors, etc.). In addition, the size of the hole and pipeline are almost the same size allowing the flow of material with very little or no friction.

Full port ball valves are efficient for throttling applications in various systems with high flow coefficients and low-pressure drops.

Standard Port Ball Valve

The standard port ball valve has a smaller ball and port as compared to the full port ball valve. Therefore, it is often cheaper than other types of Ball Valves. The flow is slightly restricted due to the pipe size, but it does not restrict flow too much. Although the standard port valve is cheaper than other ball valves, it has higher pressure drops than other types.

Standard port valves are excellent for systems having a high flow coefficient. They are very common in the market and are used in almost every industry, requiring a ball valve. They can also be used as a one-size-fits-all valve. However, it has one drawback; since they have restricted flow, these types of valve can be worn out by overuse.

Reduced Port Ball Valve

A reduced port ball valve, shortly known as RB, has reduced ball valves to control the shrinkage of flow as needed. In reduced port ball valves or reduced bore, the flow area is smaller than the size of the pipe. This means that the incoming pipe is reduced by size on one side of the valve, which helps the valve create the pressure drop in the pipeline. The reduced port ball valve’s feature of restricted flow makes it useful in many industrial applications.

V Port Ball Valve

The V in the v-port ball valve represents either the shape of the seat or the shape of the ball, but most commonly, it is the shape of the ball. V port ball valve helps you to control the flow rate efficiently. It also enables you to control the opening and the closing better. It has a linear type of flow characteristic. These types of Valves face high velocities of fluids, forcing designers to develop more robust construction for them since these types of fluids quickly damage a standard valve. V port ball valve is also useful in maintaining flow characteristics.

True union (Trunnion)

A ball valve that has a mechanically anchored ball is known as a trunnion ball valve. These ball valves have a pin that secures the ball in place and stops its movement. This valve has two shafts at the opposite ends of the ball, which enable the supporting of a segmented ball by the valve and enable the system to cause less friction between different parts of the true union valve.

The trunnion valve has a high scope in systems with high velocities as they can stand higher pressure than the standard port ball valve. It allows the ball to still operate while being very efficient and long-lasting.

Trunnion ball valves can easily stand pressure even higher than 600 psi. So they are an essential part of operations where high-pressure flow is expected. They are durable and long-lasting, and one can remove them from the system if necessary.

Ball valve manufacturers are emerging everywhere due to the high demand for ball valves in almost every industry. They are the fundamental part of hydraulic and air systems. Many manufacturers of ball valves online claim that they are the best, but here we will present you with some trustworthy and professional ones. If you want to buy a valve for your needs, always buy it from a certified manufacturer and always do thorough beforehand. Ask the manufacturers about all the qualities they are offering and inquire about your desired ones. Then, contact different manufacturers and carefully choose the best for you. Here are some best and certified manufacturers from all over the world.

DBV VALVE CO. LTD is manufacturing ball valves since . Over the years, they have introduced a wide range of ball valves with increased quality and automation. They move with the trends of the world in automation and valve control. This company has high customer satisfaction, and it is a multinational company. Visit their website at https://dbaovalve.com/.

Burkert fluid control system produces reliable ball valves. Their valves are highly sturdy and long-lasting. They can also specialize in any order if required. They are trustworthy in this field.

American valve, Inc. is a reliable company, and its products can bear rigorous pressure without breaking down. This manufacturer put a focus on developing cutting-edge technology. They also have excellent customer service.

Assure Automation offers different types of Valves with a complete selection of automated valves, manual valves, and accessories. They provide high-quality products with a warranty. They have been serving for more than 30 years and have exceptional customer service.

Williams valve corporation also offers many types of Valves with unique designs and impressive qualities. They also deliver valves made up of stainless steel or cast steel. They have been serving this industry since .

Jordan Valve is a valve manufacturer offering sanitary valves (sanitary control valve, cavity-filled three-piece ball valve), control valves (all-purpose, high flow pneumatic), low flow valves, pressure regulators, and more. Jordan Valve is a division of Richards Industries and has been around since .

Choosing a ball valve requires thorough research. You have to get your requirements straight before inquiring about different manufacturers. Following are some essential things to consider before buying a ball valve. There are various options in the market; it is essential to look at all the factors to ensure the correct valve selection for your application.

Usage

Before choosing a ball valve, you need to determine for what purpose it will be used. Do you need to regulate the flow or stop it? In which system are you going to use the valve? Do you need a high-pressure drop valve or not? Carefully consider your demands before selecting a specific one.

Media type

It is then important to verify the type of media that will circulate in the system: is it a gas or a liquid? Also, determine whether the media is corrosive, chemically neutral, a food product, or a medical fluid that requires special hygiene conditions beforehand?

The traits of the liquid or gas type for which the valve will be used will determine the material of the valve that should be used. During handling of harsh or corrosive materials, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA) are excellent choices, as they can withstand these unbearable conditions. Pressurized gases can be extremely harmful, so make sure to use metal valves for a relatively high level of safety. There are many materials used to manufacture a valve. Each material has its own qualities, and not every material can be used for everything. That’s why recognizing media type is necessary before buying a ball valve.

Application conditions

Finding the correct valve size is the most crucial step in selecting the right valve for your applications. If your valve is not of proper size, it will create different problems. The oversized valve can cause operation issues and within the valve or elsewhere in the system. In addition to the valve’s size, we also determine the temperature, pressure, and flow rate that your valve will have to face. For example, commonly metal valves are preferred under higher temperatures and pressures than plastic ones as they can withstand these conditions.

Valve Function

There are two types of Valves: two-way valve and 3-way valve. These valves perform well for on/off control systems, but the 3-way valve has an additional feature of diverting or mixing the media. Now you have to determine which type of valve will best fit your application. Also, determine whether your valve will be closed or often most of the time. To increase the life of the valve, order a valve that will perform well under your system’s conditions.

Actuation method

An important consideration to be made before purchasing a valve is how the valve will be operated. In the operation system, the valve will be either manually or operated or automated. In manual valves, an operator must control and operate the valve, while in the automatic valve, the valve can be controlled remotely from a control station. If your valve is automated, you have to decide whether the unit will be used with an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuator.

Dimensions of valve

Once you have determined the above-mentioned elements, you can focus on the technical characteristics of your installation, the flow, pressure, and temperature that the valve can withstand.

Ball valves are used both in plumbing and piping. They are leak-resistant and very durable, but on the other hand, they can get damaged also. We will discuss the common causes of ball valve damage.

Poor material choice

Ball valves are made up of different materials; among them, the most common ones are plastic and metals. Wrong material choice for specific applications leads to the failure of the ball valve.

Poor Seat Design

Valve seat design determines the life of the valve. If the seat is poorly designed, it will lead to the leakage of media from the valve and eventually lead to the failure of the valve.

Improper operation

Manual ball valves require an operator at one end for proper functioning. Automatic valves need an appropriate system of control. If valves are not properly operated, it will lead to the failure of the valve. Moreover, routine maintenance of the valve is also required to increase the life expectancy of the valve.

Faulty Installation

Always install the specific valve which suits the particular application. For example, metal valves are for high pressure and extreme temperature environments. Installation of plastic valves there will lead to damage to the valve. Proper installation procedures are generally explained in the manuals given with the ball valves. It usually starts with arranging and lifting instructions, followed by local cleaning and assembly into the piping. For example, in the Ring Type Joint gaskets, cleaning is crucial. This type of metal-to-metal valve relies on the smooth and finished surface to achieve sealing. Such surfaces are easily damaged if proper cleaning is not performed prior to installation.

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There are some other reasons for the failure of ball valves:

  1. Plastic deformation
  2. Corrosion
  3. Cold flow
  4. Friction/excessive forces

The ball valve can be repaired only if the problem is the packing washer. You can change the packing washer, and the ball valve will be repaired, but you need to replace the valve in case of other damages.

Steps to fix the ball valve

For repairing, initially, you just need an adjustable wrench and the cloth. Later you might need a screw, screwdriver, and lubricating oil depending upon the condition of the ball valve. Once you have all the tools, you need to follow the following steps.

Turn off media supply.

This step is critical. You have to make sure that the source of media ( water, any liquid, or gases in case of industrial applications) is turned off completely. If not, it will interfere with the repair process, and wasting of media will also occur.

After the supply source is cut off, drain any excess fluid and dry it with a cloth. Then remove the handle to find a ball valve. Next, use an adjustable wrench to remove the ball valve and inspect for any fault.

Removal and disassembly of the ball valve

Use an adjustable wrench to pull the valve out. Carefully disassemble the valve and look for any defect or damage. The organization is the key to success in this step. Keep all the disassembled parts organized and protected. If any part gets lost or misplaced, finding the fault will become difficult, and the repair process may cost more money than initially intended.

Every type of ball valve is made a little differently according to its applications. They have different parts for different tasks, but mainly you will inspect four different parts if you are removing a compact PVC ball valve: the parts are handle, the double stem O-ring, joint end additional O-rings, and the ball valve sphere.

Inspect ball valve parts

Inspection of all parts of the ball valve is a tedious task and requires plenty of time. But the time spent will be worth the trouble. By looking carefully at every part, you will find small tears and cracks in the faulty region that are causing the problem. Instead of the faulty part, if the remaining ball valve is fine, you just need to replace the cracked part. Replacements of spare parts are available in the market, and you can buy them from there. After replacing the part, organize and assemble the ball valve using screws and lubricating oil. Again install the ball valve back and start the media supply.

Replacement with a new ball valve

If damage occurred to the ball valve is non-repairable, then you have to replace the ball valve with a new one. You can buy a new ball valve from any manufacturer mentioned above.

Ultimate Electric Control Valve Buying Guide for Industrial Use

In today's industrial landscape, precision and reliability are paramount for operational efficiency. The Electric Control Valve stands as a cornerstone component in modern fluid control systems, enabling automated regulation of flow, pressure, and temperature across diverse industrial applications. This comprehensive guide delves into essential considerations for selecting the optimal Electric Control Valve for your specific industrial requirements, covering technical specifications, performance parameters, and strategic procurement factors that ensure long-term operational success and cost-effectiveness.

Understanding Electric Control Valve Fundamentals

When investing in industrial flow control technology, comprehending the core principles and components of Electric Control Valves is essential for making informed procurement decisions. These sophisticated devices combine mechanical precision with electronic intelligence to deliver unparalleled control capabilities across diverse applications.

Electric Control Valve Working Principles

Electric Control Valves function through the integration of an electric actuator with a precision-engineered valve body. Unlike pneumatic or hydraulic alternatives, Electric Control Valves utilize electrical energy to position the valve stem with exceptional accuracy. The actuator receives an electrical signal from a controller, typically 4-20mA or digital communication protocols, and converts this signal into precise mechanical movement. This movement adjusts the valve's position, regulating the flow of media through the pipeline. The incorporation of position feedback mechanisms ensures the actual valve position corresponds exactly with the control signal, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains process variables within specified parameters. High-performance Electric Control Valves, such as those manufactured by CEPAI Group, feature advanced positioning algorithms that compensate for mechanical wear, temperature variations, and process disturbances, delivering consistent performance throughout the valve's operational lifespan.

Key Components and Materials Selection

The performance and durability of an Electric Control Valve are directly influenced by the quality of its components and the appropriateness of material selection for specific applications. The valve body, typically constructed from carbon steel, stainless steel, or specialized alloys, must withstand process conditions including temperature extremes, pressure fluctuations, and media corrosiveness. The valve trim—comprising the stem, plug, and seat—requires particular attention as these components control the flow characteristics and are subject to erosion, corrosion, and cavitation. Modern Electric Control Valves often feature hardened trim materials like stellite or ceramic for extended service life in demanding applications. The electric actuator represents another critical component, housing the motor, gearing, and electronic control board that translate electrical signals into mechanical movement. Leading manufacturers like CEPAI implement IP67-rated enclosures to protect electronic components from environmental factors while incorporating temperature compensation systems to maintain positioning accuracy across varying ambient conditions. Additionally, proper selection of sealing materials—whether PTFE, graphite, or elastomeric compounds—ensures leakage prevention and compliance with environmental regulations.

Electric vs. Pneumatic Control Systems: Comparative Analysis

When evaluating control valve technologies, understanding the relative advantages of electric systems compared to traditional pneumatic alternatives provides crucial context for investment decisions. Electric Control Valves offer distinct benefits including superior positioning accuracy, typically achieving ±0.1% positioning precision compared to pneumatic systems' ±1-2%. This translates directly to tighter process control and improved product quality. Energy efficiency represents another significant advantage, as Electric Control Valves eliminate compressed air requirements, reducing operational costs by approximately 15-25% over the valve's lifecycle. Response characteristics differ substantially between the technologies—while pneumatic systems may offer faster initial response times, Electric Control Valves deliver more precise positioning with reduced overshoot and minimal hysteresis, particularly valuable in modulating applications. Modern Electric Control Valves also provide enhanced diagnostic capabilities, continuously monitoring parameters like motor temperature, torque levels, and cycle counts to enable predictive maintenance strategies. The elimination of pneumatic infrastructure—compressors, air dryers, filters, and distribution piping—substantially reduces installation complexity and maintenance requirements while improving system reliability. Industry leaders like CEPAI Group have further enhanced these inherent advantages through innovations in digital control algorithms and motor technology that narrow the response time gap with pneumatic systems while maintaining superior positioning accuracy.

Selecting the Right Electric Control Valve for Your Application

Choosing the optimal Electric Control Valve requires careful consideration of application-specific requirements and operational conditions to ensure performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness throughout the valve's service life.

Flow Characteristics and Sizing Considerations

Proper valve sizing and selection of appropriate flow characteristics form the foundation of effective control valve performance in any industrial application. Flow characteristic refers to the relationship between valve position and flow rate, with options including equal percentage, linear, and quick-opening characteristics. For processes requiring precise control across varying flow rates, equal percentage characteristics typically provide optimal performance by delivering proportional gain throughout the operating range. Accurate valve sizing involves calculating the flow coefficient (Cv) based on process parameters including maximum and minimum flow rates, inlet and outlet pressures, temperature, media properties, and allowable pressure drop. Undersized valves cannot achieve required flow rates, while oversized valves operate near closed positions, leading to poor control resolution and potential damage from high-velocity flow. Advanced sizing software employed by reputable manufacturers like CEPAI Group incorporates factors such as installed gain, process dynamics, and control system characteristics to recommend optimal valve dimensions and trim configurations. Additionally, considerations for rangeability—the ratio between maximum and minimum controllable flow—become critical in applications with wide flow variations. High-performance Electric Control Valves typically offer rangeability ratios of 50:1 to 100:1, enabling precise control across diverse operating conditions while maintaining process stability and product quality.

Industry-Specific Selection Criteria

Different industrial sectors impose unique demands on Electric Control Valves, necessitating specialized selection approaches tailored to specific applications and regulatory environments. In oil and gas applications, Electric Control Valves must withstand extreme pressures and temperatures while handling potentially corrosive media containing particulates. Compliance with industry standards like API 6D and API 598 becomes mandatory, with fire-safe certification according to API 607 often required. Chemical processing environments present challenges including aggressive media, high cycle rates, and stringent leakage requirements, making chemical compatibility of trim materials and sealing systems paramount. Power generation applications typically demand high-temperature capabilities for steam service, noise control features, and compliance with ASME B16.34 standards. CEPAI Group addresses these diverse requirements through specialized valve series designed for particular industry challenges, incorporating features like anti-cavitation trim designs for high-pressure drop applications, noise-reduction technology for gas service, and specialized alloys for corrosive environments. Water and wastewater treatment applications prioritize resistance to biological fouling and chemical disinfectants, while food and pharmaceutical processing demands sanitary designs with FDA-approved materials and polished surface finishes. In each case, selecting Electric Control Valves engineered specifically for the industry's unique challenges ensures optimal performance, compliance with relevant regulations, and extended service life even under demanding operating conditions.

Advanced Features and Smart Technology Integration

Modern Electric Control Valves incorporate sophisticated electronics and communication capabilities that enhance performance, facilitate integration with control systems, and enable predictive maintenance strategies. Digital positioners represent a significant advancement, offering improved positioning accuracy through microprocessor-based control algorithms that compensate for mechanical hysteresis, friction, and environmental factors. These devices typically support industry-standard communication protocols including HART, Profibus, Foundation Fieldbus, and Modbus, enabling seamless integration with distributed control systems and asset management platforms. Advanced diagnostic capabilities continuously monitor valve health parameters, including stem position, motor temperature, torque profiles, and cycle counts, detecting potential issues before they result in unplanned downtime. CEPAI Group's latest generation of Electric Control Valves incorporates these features while adding innovations like adaptive control algorithms that automatically optimize performance based on process conditions and historical behavior patterns. Partial stroke testing functionality enables verification of emergency shutdown valve operation without disrupting the process, enhancing safety system reliability. Remote configuration capabilities allow adjustment of valve parameters without physical access, particularly valuable in hazardous areas or remote installations. When selecting Electric Control Valves, evaluating these advanced features against application requirements and existing infrastructure capabilities ensures maximum value from the investment while establishing a foundation for future digital transformation initiatives within the operation.

Total Cost of Ownership and Procurement Strategy

Making informed Electric Control Valve purchasing decisions requires looking beyond initial acquisition costs to consider the complete lifecycle expenses and long-term value proposition.

Lifecycle Cost Analysis Framework

A comprehensive approach to Electric Control Valve procurement incorporates both direct and indirect costs throughout the equipment lifecycle, providing a more accurate representation of total investment requirements. Initial acquisition costs typically represent only 15-25% of total lifecycle expenses, with energy consumption, maintenance requirements, and production impact of potential failures accounting for the remainder. Energy efficiency evaluations should consider not only the electric actuator's power consumption but also system-level impacts including elimination of compressed air requirements and improved process efficiency through precise control. Maintenance expenses vary significantly between valve designs, with factors including trim material durability, lubrication requirements, and diagnostic capabilities directly influencing long-term costs. High-quality Electric Control Valves from manufacturers like CEPAI Group often command premium pricing but deliver superior return on investment through extended service intervals, simplified maintenance procedures, and reduced spare parts requirements. Replacement frequency represents another critical factor, with valve selection decisions influencing expected service life based on material compatibility with process media, mechanical wear resistance, and electronic component durability. Advanced lifecycle cost analysis incorporates reliability metrics including Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) and Mean Time To Repair (MTTR), quantifying the production impact of potential valve issues. Process stability improvements enabled by precise Electric Control Valve operation—including reduced product quality variations, decreased energy consumption, and minimized raw material waste—should also factor into comprehensive economic evaluations, as these operational benefits often outweigh equipment cost differentials over the installation's operational lifespan.

Vendor Evaluation and Selection Criteria

Identifying the optimal Electric Control Valve supplier involves assessment across multiple dimensions including technical capabilities, manufacturing quality, and support infrastructure. Technical expertise evaluation should consider the manufacturer's engineering resources, application experience in your specific industry, and demonstrated innovation history. Established companies like CEPAI Group maintain dedicated research facilities and engineering teams focused on continuous product advancement, resulting in solutions tailored to emerging industry challenges. Manufacturing capabilities assessment should examine production facilities, quality control systems, and material traceability protocols to ensure consistent product quality. ISO certification provides baseline quality assurance, while industry-specific certifications like API Q1 demonstrate commitment to standards particularly relevant to oil and gas applications. Support infrastructure represents another crucial evaluation area, encompassing technical consultation before purchase, commissioning assistance, and ongoing maintenance support throughout the product lifecycle. Global manufacturers with established regional service centers can typically provide more responsive support, reducing downtime during installation or maintenance events. Reference verification with existing customers operating similar applications offers valuable insights regarding real-world performance and support quality. Additionally, financial stability assessment helps ensure the selected vendor will remain viable throughout the Electric Control Valve's operational lifespan, maintaining spare parts availability and honoring warranty commitments. Established companies like CEPAI Group, with their extensive qualification certifications including ISO , ISO , ISO , and industry-specific approvals, demonstrate the comprehensive capabilities required for critical fluid control applications.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Considerations

Proper installation, commissioning, and maintenance practices significantly influence Electric Control Valve performance and service life, making these factors important considerations during the procurement process. Installation requirements vary between valve designs, with factors including access space for maintenance, environmental protection ratings, and electrical supply specifications directly impacting installation complexity and cost. Commissioning procedures establish baseline performance parameters and verify proper integration with control systems, with manufacturer support during this phase potentially reducing startup delays and optimizing initial configuration. Training requirements for operations and maintenance personnel should be evaluated, with comprehensive documentation and manufacturer-provided instruction programs significantly improving long-term performance. CEPAI Group offers extensive commissioning support and training programs tailored to customer requirements, ensuring optimal valve configuration and proper maintenance procedures. Spare parts availability and stocking recommendations influence maintenance strategy development, with standardization across the facility potentially reducing inventory requirements and simplifying maintenance procedures. Diagnostic capabilities enable condition-based maintenance approaches, with advanced Electric Control Valves providing detailed performance data that facilitates predictive intervention before failures occur. Maintenance accessibility—including features like top-entry designs that permit trim replacement without removing the valve from the pipeline—can substantially reduce service time and associated production impacts. Warranty terms and conditions, including coverage duration, exclusions, and claim processes, should be carefully evaluated as these protections provide important financial risk mitigation during the initial operating period.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Electric Control Valve requires careful consideration of technical specifications, application requirements, and total ownership costs. CEPAI Group's extensive experience in high-precision fluid control technology positions them as an industry leader, offering exceptional durability, advanced control performance, and comprehensive service support. Their commitment to innovation, evidenced by substantial R&D investments and numerous patents, ensures customers receive cutting-edge solutions backed by rigorous quality management systems and international certifications.

Ready to optimize your flow control systems with industry-leading Electric Control Valves? Contact CEPAI's expert team today for personalized technical consultation and discover how our high-performance solutions can enhance your operational efficiency, improve product quality, and reduce total ownership costs. Our engineers are standing by to analyze your specific requirements and recommend the perfect valve configuration for your application. Reach out now at and take the first step toward superior fluid control performance!

References

1. Smith, J.R. & Johnson, A.B. (). "Advanced Electric Control Valve Technologies for Modern Industrial Applications." Journal of Flow Control Engineering, 45(3), 112-128.

2. International Society of Automation. (). "ISA Standard 75.25: Control Valve Requirements for Industrial Applications." ISA Publishing.

3. Peterson, M.K. (). "Comparative Analysis of Electric and Pneumatic Control Systems in Process Industries." Industrial Process Control, 18(2), 87-99.

4. Zhang, H. & Wilson, D.L. (). "Materials Selection Criteria for High-Performance Control Valves." Materials Engineering for Process Applications, 29(4), 201-215.

5. European Flow Control Association. (). "Best Practices in Electric Control Valve Selection and Maintenance." EFCA Technical Publication Series.

6. Li, S.Q., Wang, T.Y. & Brown, R.E. (). "Lifecycle Cost Analysis Framework for Industrial Valve Procurement." International Journal of Asset Management, 12(1), 45-62.

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