Ball Valves

VALVES — DETAILED SUBCATEGORY PAGES


PAGE 1: GATE VALVES

Gate Valves

Linear-Motion Isolation Valves for On/Off Service

Gate valves are the most widely used isolation valve in the oil and gas industry. They provide a straight-through, unobstructed flow path when fully open, resulting in minimal pressure drop. A gate (wedge, slab, or parallel disc) moves perpendicular to the flow direction to open or close the valve.

Gate valves are designed for fully open or fully closed service. They are not intended for throttling—partially open gates experience vibration, erosion, and damage to seating surfaces.


Available Standards & Types

TypeStandardKey FeaturesTypical Application
Flexible Wedge GateAPI 600, ASME B16.34One-piece wedge with flex cut, self-adjusts to seatsRefinery isolation, steam, moderate temperatures
Solid Wedge GateAPI 600, ASME B16.34Simple, robust, one-piece wedgeGeneral process isolation, moderate temps
Parallel Slide GateAPI 600Two parallel discs with spring, low seat frictionHigh-pressure steam, power generation
Through-Conduit Slab GateAPI 6D, API 6AFull-bore, single slab, floating seatsPipeline isolation, piggable lines
Expanding GateAPI 6D, API 6APositive mechanical expansion against both seatsCritical isolation, double block and bleed
Pressure-Seal GateAPI 600, ASME B16.34Bonnet seal tightens with pressureHigh-pressure steam, boiler feedwater
Compact Gate (Small Bore)API 602Compact design, threaded/socket-weld endsInstrument isolation, drains, vents
API 6A Wellhead GateAPI 6AThrough-conduit slab, flanged or studdedWellhead, Christmas tree, frac trees

Size & Pressure Range

ParameterRange
Sizes1/2″ to 60″+
Pressure Classes150# / 300# / 600# / 900# / 1500# / 2500# / 4500#
API 6A Ratings2,000 psi to 20,000 psi

Body & Bonnet Designs

DesignDescription
Bolted BonnetStandard for most applications. Gasket seal between body and bonnet
Pressure-Seal BonnetBonnet seal tightens as internal pressure increases. For high-pressure steam and boiler feedwater
Welded BonnetBody-bonnet joint welded. Used for buried service and where leakage is unacceptable
Union BonnetThreaded union between body and bonnet. Small-bore, instrument applications

Material Options

ServiceBody/BonnetTrim (Wedge/Seat)Stem
Sweet hydrocarbonWCB (Carbon Steel)13Cr / 316 SS13Cr / 17-4PH
Sour serviceWCB (NACE MR0175)316 SS / Duplex316 SS / Inconel 718
High temperatureWC6 / WC9 (Cr-Mo)Stellite Gr.6316 SS
CryogenicLCB / LCC316 SS316 SS (extended bonnet)
Stainless / CorrosiveCF8M (316 SS)316 SS / Stellite316 SS
SeawaterDuplex / Super DuplexDuplex / Super DuplexDuplex

Optional Features

  • By-Pass Connection: Small-bore bypass line around gate to equalize pressure before opening
  • Drain & Vent Connections: Flanged or threaded taps for draining cavity or venting
  • Gear Operator: For sizes ≥8″ or high-pressure classes (reduces manual operating torque)
  • Actuation: Pneumatic piston, electric multi-turn, hydraulic
  • Fire-Safe Design: API 607 / API 6FA certified
  • Double Block & Bleed (DBB): Two seating surfaces with bleed between
  • Extended Bonnet: For cryogenic service to keep packing above freezing
  • Live-Loaded Packing: Spring-loaded gland follower maintains packing compression through thermal cycles


PAGE 2: GLOBE VALVES

Globe Valves

Linear-Motion Valves for Throttling and Flow Regulation

Globe valves are specifically designed for flow regulation and throttling service. Unlike gate valves (which are on/off devices), globe valves use a plug-and-seat arrangement that provides precise control across a wide range of stem travel.

The S-shaped body creates inherent resistance to flow, which makes them ideal for control applications but less suitable where low pressure drop is critical.


Body Patterns

PatternDescriptionBest For
T-Pattern (Straight)Flow enters and exits in a straight line. Highest pressure dropStandard throttling, process isolation
Y-PatternInlet and outlet at roughly 45° angle to stem. Lower pressure dropHigher flow applications, steam, erosion reduction
Angle PatternInlet and outlet perpendicular. Combines valve + 90° elbowBoiler blowdown, erosive fluids, piping simplification

Disc / Plug Types

Disc TypeFlow CharacteristicApplication
Flat DiscQuick openingGeneral on/off service
Needle DiscLinear, fine adjustmentSmall-bore precision throttling, sampling
V-Port DiscEqual percentageProportional flow control
Parabolic / Contoured DiscModified equal percentageExtended throttling range, reduced cavitation
Cage-Guided PlugLinear or equal percentageHigh-pressure drop, anti-cavitation

Size & Pressure Range

ParameterRange
Sizes1/2″ to 24″
Pressure Classes150# / 300# / 600# / 900# / 1500# / 2500#

Flow Direction

Globe valves are typically unidirectional. The flow direction arrow cast on the body must be observed during installation.

Flow ConfigurationApplication
Flow-to-Close (Over the Seat)Standard for most applications
Flow-to-Open (Under the Seat)Reduces hammering at near-closed position, but can cause instability near full open

Typical Standards: API 602 (small-bore), API 623 (heavy-wall), BS 1873 (British), ASME B16.34

Material Options: As per Gate Valves material table above



PAGE 3: BALL VALVES

Ball Valves

Quarter-Turn Isolation with Tight Shutoff

Ball valves are the industry-preferred solution for rapid, reliable shutoff. A spherical ball with a central bore rotates 90 degrees from fully open to fully closed. Their quarter-turn operation makes them ideal for emergency shutdown (ESD), pipeline isolation, and applications requiring frequent cycling.


Ball Configurations

ConfigurationDescriptionSizesPressure
Floating BallBall not fixed; held against downstream seat by line pressureUp to 6″-8″Up to 2500#
Trunnion-Mounted BallBall supported by upper and lower trunnion bearings2″ to 60″+150# to 4500#
Top EntryInternals removable from top without removing valve from line2″ to 48″150# to 2500#
Fully WeldedBody fully welded, no flange joints2″ to 48″150# to 900#
V-Port / Segmented BallV-shaped or segmented ball for control applications1″ to 24″150# to 600#

Body Construction

TypeDescriptionApplication
Two-PieceBody + end connector. EconomicalLow to medium pressure, general service
Three-PieceTwo end connectors + body. Swing-out for in-line maintenanceProcess piping, chemical service
Fully Welded (Forged Steel)No body bolts. Zero leakage pathBuried gas pipelines, subsea

Bore Types

BoreDescriptionApplication
Full Bore (Full Port)Bore diameter equals pipe ID. No flow restrictionPipeline (piggable), slurry, high viscosity
Reduced Bore (Standard Port)Bore diameter one pipe size smallerGeneral process isolation (cost-effective)
V-Port / Notched BoreShaped bore for control characteristicThrottling, process control

Seat Types

Seat MaterialTemperature RangeApplication
PTFE (Virgin)-50°C to +200°CGeneral process, chemicals
R-PTFE / TFM-50°C to +260°CReinforced, better creep resistance
PEEK-50°C to +260°CHigh pressure, high temperature
Nylon / Devlon-50°C to +120°CHigh pressure, abrasive service
Metal Seated (Stellite / Tungsten Carbide)-200°C to +1000°CExtreme temperature, abrasion, slurry
Graphite-Filled PTFEUp to +300°CFire-safe, high temperature

Fire-Safe Certification

Fire-safe ball valves are tested to API 607 or API 6FA. In the event of a fire that destroys soft seats, secondary metal seats provide limited leakage to prevent escalation.


Typical Standards: API 6D (pipeline), API 608 (process), API 6A (wellhead), ISO 17292, API 607/6FA (fire-safe)

Optional Features:

  • Double Block & Bleed (DBB): Two independent seating surfaces with cavity bleed
  • Anti-Static Device: Electrical continuity between ball, stem, and body
  • Locking Device: Mechanical lock in open or closed position
  • Extension Stem: For buried or insulated applications
  • Actuation: Pneumatic scotch yoke, rack & pinion, electric, hydraulic


PAGE 4: CHECK VALVES

Check Valves

Automatic Reverse Flow Prevention

Check valves are self-acting, one-directional valves that prevent reverse flow in piping systems. They open when forward flow exerts sufficient pressure and close automatically when flow stops or reverses. They are essential for protecting pumps, compressors, and process equipment from damage caused by backflow.


Check Valve Types

TypeStandardKey FeaturesBest For
Swing CheckASME B16.34, API 6DHinged disc swings open/closed. Low pressure drop. Gravity-assisted closureHorizontal lines, low pulsation, large diameters
Dual Plate / Double DoorAPI 594, API 6DTwo spring-loaded half-discs. Compact face-to-face. LightweightHigh-pressure gas, offshore, compact installations
Piston / Lift CheckASME B16.34, API 6DGuided piston lifts off seat. Spring-assisted closureVertical lines, pulsating flow, compressor discharge
Ball CheckBS 5153Simple ball and conical seatViscous fluids, slurry, sewage
Nozzle / Axial FlowASME B16.34Venturi body, axially guided disc. Ultra-fast closure, low pressure dropCompressor stations, critical applications, gas pipelines
Tilting DiscAPI 6DDisc pivots slightly off-center. Self-aligningLarge-diameter water, low-pressure gas
Wafer CheckAPI 594Extremely short face-to-face. Fits between flangesSpace-constrained installations, general service
In-Line / Silent CheckASME B16.34Internal spring-loaded poppet. Silent closure, no water hammerPump discharge, vertical lines

Selection Criteria

FactorBest Check Type
Low pressure dropDual Plate, Nozzle/Axial Flow, Swing Check
Pulsating flow (reciprocating compressor)Piston/Lift Check, Nozzle Check
Vertical pipe (flow upward)Piston/Lift Check, In-Line Silent Check
Compact installationDual Plate, Wafer Check
Slurry / viscous fluidBall Check, Swing Check
Water hammer preventionNozzle Check, Silent Check, Dual Plate
Large diameter (>24″)Swing Check, Tilting Disc
SubseaDual Plate, Swing Check (with special coatings)

Closure Characteristics

BehaviorDescriptionBest Type
Slow ClosingRelies on gravity and reverse flowSwing Check
Fast ClosingSpring-assisted, closes before reverse flow developsDual Plate, Nozzle Check, Piston Check
Silent (Non-Slam)Closes smoothly, no water hammerNozzle Check, Silent Check, Dual Plate

Typical Standards: API 594 (wafer), API 6D (pipeline), ASME B16.34, API 598 (testing), BS 1868

Material Options:

  • Body: WCB, LCB, CF8M, Duplex, Alloy 20
  • Disc/Hinge: 316 SS, Duplex, Stellite, Inconel
  • Seat: 13Cr, Stellite, PTFE (where applicable)


PAGE 5: BUTTERFLY VALVES

Butterfly Valves

Compact, Lightweight Quarter-Turn Valves for Large Diameters

Butterfly valves use a flat or profiled disc mounted on a shaft that rotates 90 degrees to control flow. Their principal advantages are compact face-to-face dimensions, light weight, and low cost—particularly in large diameters where gate or ball valves become impractical.


Valve Categories (API 609)

CategoryDesignSeat TypePressure/Temp Capability
Category A (Concentric)One-piece resilient seat. Disc contacts seat along entire circumferenceSoft (EPDM, NBR, PTFE)Up to 600#, 180°C
Category B (Double Offset)Two offsets reduce seat contact friction. Metal or soft seatedSoft or Fire-Safe MetalUp to 900#, 800°C
Category B (Triple Offset)Three offsets create torque-seated metal-to-metal sealMetal Laminated / Solid MetalUp to 1500#, 1000°C

Offset Explained

OffsetDescriptionBenefit
Concentric (Zero Offset)Shaft centered in disc and bodySimple, lowest cost
Double OffsetShaft behind disc centerline, off body centerlineReduced seat wear, longer life
Triple OffsetAdditional conical seat angleTorque-seated metal seal, zero leakage, extreme temps

Seat Materials

MaterialMax TemperatureApplication
EPDM120°CWater, mild chemicals
NBR (Nitrile)90°CHydrocarbon service, oil
Viton / FKM200°CHigh temperature, chemicals, solvents
PTFE Lined200°CCorrosive chemicals (requires flange-end body)
Metal (Stellite, Stainless)800-1000°CHigh temperature, cryogenic, fire-safe

Body Types

TypeDescription
WaferFits between flanges. Most economical and common
LugThreaded lugs for bolt-through installation. Allows single-flange dead-end service
Double FlangedFull body flanges on both sides. For demanding applications

Typical Applications in Oil & Gas:

  • Cooling water isolation (large bore)
  • Firewater ring main isolation
  • Seawater intake and outfall
  • Air intake to compressors and turbines
  • Tank vent and overflow lines
  • Low-pressure steam and condensate

Typical Standards: API 609, ASME B16.34, API 607 (fire-safe)



PAGE 6: PLUG VALVES

Plug Valves

Quarter-Turn Valves for Slurries, Viscous Fluids, and Frequent Operation

Plug valves use a cylindrical or tapered plug with a through-bore that rotates 90 degrees to open or close. Their simple, robust design with no cavities makes them ideal for services where ball valves would clog or seize.


Plug Types

TypeDescriptionApplication
Lubricated PlugSealant injected between plug and body. Reduces torque, positive sealGas service (natural gas, LPG, sour gas)
Non-Lubricated / SleevedPTFE sleeve around plug eliminates sealantLow-maintenance, chemical, water
Pressure-BalancedInternal balance ports equalize pressure, reduce torqueHigh-pressure, frequent operation
Eccentric PlugPlug offset from seat, no contact except at final closed positionSlurries, abrasive, throttling capable

Plug Port Patterns

PatternDescriptionApplication
Rectangular PortMaximum flow area, typical size 70-80% of pipe areaOn/off isolation
Round PortFull or reduced round borePiggable lines, critical isolation
Multi-Port (3-way, 4-way)Divert or combine flowManifold, bypass, directional control

Typical Applications in Oil & Gas:

  • Produced water and drilling mud manifolds
  • Oil sands slurry handling
  • Chemical injection lines
  • Gas gathering and distribution
  • Tank drain and sampling points

Typical Standards: API 599, API 6D



PAGE 7: CHOKE VALVES

Choke Valves

High-Pressure Flow Control for Wellhead and Production

Choke valves are a specialized class of control valve designed to manage flow rate and reduce pressure from the wellhead. They operate under extreme conditions: high differential pressure, high velocity, erosive sand, and corrosive fluids.


Choke Types

TypeDescriptionBest For
Fixed Bean (Positive Choke)Solid orifice bean, replaceable. No moving partsSteady, unvarying flow
Adjustable ChokeNeedle & seat design. Externally adjustable flowVariable flow, adjustable without shutdown
Cage-Guided ChokeMulti-stage pressure reduction through cage with drilled holesHigh pressure drop, noise reduction, erosion control
Plug & Cage ChokePlug moves within multi-port cageSevere service, high turndown
Multi-Stage / Multi-Step TrimMultiple pressure reduction stagesChoke-to-tank (atmospheric discharge), very high ΔP

Trim Materials (Erosion Resistance is Critical)

MaterialApplication
Stellite 6 / 12Standard trim, moderate erosion
Tungsten CarbideSevere erosion, sand production, high-velocity gas
Silicon Carbide / CeramicExtreme erosion, longest service life
Inconel 718High temperature, sour service, high strength

Actuation Options

  • Manual (handwheel with position indicator)
  • Pneumatic stepper for remote adjustment
  • Hydraulic for subsea

Typical Standards: API 6A

Pressure Ratings: 2,000 to 20,000 psi

Sizes: 1″ to 6″ (trim size determined by flow coefficient Cv requirement)



PAGE 8: CONTROL VALVES

Control Valves

Automated Process Control for Pressure, Flow, Level, and Temperature

Control valves are the final control element in process automation loops. Combined with an actuator, positioner, and accessories, they modulate flow to maintain precise process conditions as dictated by the plant control system (DCS/PLC).


Control Valve Bodies

Body TypeFlow CharacteristicApplication
Globe (Single-Port)Linear or equal percentageGeneral process control, wide rangeability
Globe (Cage-Guided)Linear or equal percentageHigh pressure drop, reduced noise trim available
AngleLinearErosive or flashing service, combines valve + elbow
Rotary (V-Ball / Segmented Ball)Equal percentageHigh capacity, compact, lower cost
Eccentric PlugLinear or equal percentageSlurries, viscous, abrasive
Axial FlowLinear or equal percentageLow noise, high capacity, compact
Three-WayLinearMixing or diverting service

Trim Designs

Trim TypeKey FeatureApplication
Standard / UnbalancedSimple, reliableClean fluids, moderate pressure drop
Pressure-BalancedReduced actuator force requiredHigh pressure drop, large sizes
Cage-GuidedTrim accessible from top, multiple cage optionsStandard for globe control valves
Anti-CavitationMulti-stage or tortuous pathHigh-pressure drop with liquids (prevents cavitation damage)
Low NoiseDrilled/slotted cages, diffusers, splittersGas service where noise exceeds 85 dBA
High TurndownSpecial plug profilesFlow rangeability >50:1

Actuator Types

ActuatorControl SignalFail ModeApplication
Pneumatic Spring & Diaphragm3-15 psi (pneumatic)Fail-Open / Fail-Close / Fail-LastMost common. Reliable, cost-effective
Pneumatic Piston3-15 psi or electro-pneumaticFail-Open / Fail-CloseHigh thrust, large valves
Electric (Smart Electric)4-20mA / Modbus / FieldbusProgrammableRemote locations, no instrument air
Electro-Hydraulic4-20mA + hydraulic powerProgrammableSubsea, high force, remote

Positioners & Accessories

  • I/P Positioner: Converts 4-20mA electrical signal to pneumatic output
  • Smart Positioner: Digital control, HART/Fieldbus/Profibus, diagnostics, partial stroke testing
  • Limit Switches: Open/closed position feedback
  • Solenoid Valves: For emergency fail-safe actuation
  • Airset / Filter Regulator: Clean, regulated instrument air supply
  • Volume Booster: Faster stroke times for large actuators

Typical Standards: ISA-75 (valve sizing), IEC 60534 (noise prediction, flow testing), API 6D (pipeline control valves), NACE MR0175 (sour service)



PAGE 9: SAFETY & RELIEF VALVES

Safety & Relief Valves

Overpressure Protection for Pressure Vessels, Piping, and Equipment

Safety and relief valves are the last line of defense against catastrophic overpressure. They automatically open at a predetermined set pressure and discharge sufficient fluid to prevent pressure from exceeding allowable limits. They are mandated by code (ASME, API, PED) for all pressure-containing equipment.


Valve Types

TypeActionFluid ServiceBest For
Spring-Loaded Safety ValvePopping action (rapid full opening)Compressible (gas, steam)Boilers, gas vessels, steam systems
Spring-Loaded Relief ValveGradual opening proportional to overpressureIncompressible (liquid)Thermal relief, liquid-filled vessels
Pilot-Operated Safety-Relief ValvePilot valve senses pressure, controls main valveGas or liquidTight shutoff to set pressure, critical service

Pilot-Operated PRV Advantages

FeatureBenefit
Tight Shutoff to Set PointNo simmering or leakage at 95-98% of set pressure. Saves product loss
Full Lift at Set PressureInstant full capacity, no overpressure required for full lift
Remote SensingPilot senses pressure at vessel, not at valve inlet. Compensates for inlet pressure drop
Backpressure CompensationBalanced pilot compensates for fluctuating discharge backpressure
Field Test ConnectionAllows in-situ set pressure verification without removing valve
Modulating ActionOpens only as much as needed to relieve the upset. Reduces product loss

Typical Standards:

  • API 526 — Flanged steel safety relief valves (standardized orifice areas)
  • ASME Section VIII — Pressure vessel code requiring overpressure protection
  • ASME Section I — Boiler code
  • API 520 Part I & II — Sizing, selection, and installation
  • API 521 — Pressure relieving and depressuring systems

Orifice Designations (API 526)

Orifice LetterEffective Area (sq in)Typical Flow Range
D0.110Small vessels, thermal relief
E0.196Process vent
F0.307Small to medium vessels
G0.503Medium process vessels
H0.785Large process vessels
J1.287Large vessels, gas plants
K1.838High-capacity gas service
L2.853High-capacity, steam
M3.600Very high capacity
N4.340Maximum area, large equipment
P6.380Critical large-capacity service


PAGE 10: WELLHEAD & CHRISTMAS TREE VALVES

Wellhead & Christmas Tree Valves

Surface Flow Control for Drilling, Completion, and Production

Wellhead and Christmas tree valves control hydrocarbon flow at the surface termination of a well. They are designed and manufactured to API 6A, the most demanding valve standard in the oil and gas industry, covering extreme pressures, sour service, and high/low temperature extremes.


API 6A Valve Types

ValveConfigurationFunction
Master ValveGate (Through-Conduit Slab)Primary isolation valve at the base of the Christmas tree. Normally open, closed for well kill or intervention
Wing ValveGate or BallFlowline isolation. Used for shutting in or opening production flow
Swab / Crown ValveGateAccess to the vertical bore for wireline, slickline, and intervention
Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV)Flapper or BallFail-safe closed valve set deep in the wellbore. Surface or subsurface controlled
Surface Safety Valve (SSV)Gate + ActuatorFail-safe closed on loss of control signal. Emergency shutdown at surface
Check ValveAPI 6A CheckPrevents backflow from flowline into wellbore

API 6A Classification

ClassificationParameterOptions
Pressure RatingMaximum working pressure2,000 / 3,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 15,000 / 20,000 psi
Material ClassService suitabilityAA (General) / BB / CC / DD / EE / FF / HH (Severe Sour Service)
Temperature ClassOperating temperature rangeK (-60°C to +82°C) / L / P / R / S / T / U / X / Y (+345°C)
Product Specification Level (PSL)Quality/Testing RigorPSL 1 to PSL 4

PSL Levels Explained

PSLTesting LevelApplication
PSL 1BasicLow-risk, sweet, moderate pressure
PSL 2StandardGeneral oil and gas
PSL 3EnhancedHigh-pressure, sweet/sour, offshore
PSL 3GPSL3 + Gas TestingGas service, critical applications
PSL 4MaximumExtreme pressure, HPHT, critical sour service

Material Classes for Sour Service

Material ClassMax H2S Partial PressureTrim Requirements
AAGeneral (Sweet)Standard
BBModerate Sour316 SS, controlled hardness
CCHigh SourDuplex, Inconel 718
HHSevere SourInconel 718, Inconel 625 cladding, CRA trim

Typical Standards: API 6A (Specification for Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment), API 6AV1 (Actuator Qualification), NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156