Blog Hakkında Guide to Decoding and Selecting Ball Valves

Ball valves are critical components in fluid control systems, widely used in industries such as water treatment, petrochemicals, and natural gas distribution. Understanding the markings on these valves is essential for ensuring safe and efficient operation. This article breaks down the key identifiers to help professionals make informed decisions during valve selection.

Valve sizes are typically marked in inches or millimeters, indicating the port dimensions. Selecting a valve with compatible pipe sizing is fundamental for system integrity. For example, a "1 inch" marking corresponds to approximately 25.4 mm, requiring matching pipeline connections.

The valve body material determines its corrosion resistance, pressure tolerance, and temperature range. Common materials include:

• Stainless Steel (SS304/SS316): Excellent corrosion resistance and high-temperature performance.
• Carbon Steel (CS): High strength and cost-effectiveness, often requiring protective coatings.
• Brass: Suitable for plumbing and low-pressure gas systems.
• Plastic (PVC/PP): Lightweight and corrosion-resistant for chemical applications.

Valves marked with ISO 5211 standards (e.g., "F04") feature standardized mounting interfaces for actuators, enabling easy conversion from manual to automated operation.

Pressure class markings (PN16, 300PSI, etc.) indicate maximum working pressures. Selection must account for system pressure peaks to prevent failures.

The Water-Oil-Gas (WOG) marking denotes general service suitability but doesn't specify pressure/temperature limits.

Special markings differentiate valves approved for indoor/outdoor gas applications, reflecting enhanced sealing requirements.

"LF" or "Lead Free" markings indicate compliance with potable water standards and environmental regulations.

Manufacturer logos, batch numbers, and certification marks (CE, UL) provide quality assurance and traceability.

Understanding these identifiers enables precise valve selection for specific operational requirements. Proper interpretation of markings contributes to system reliability, safety, and longevity.