While there are many standard sizes and configurations of ball valves, new equipment or even older, existing systems may require specialized components. In some cases, equipment is custom designed to meet the needs of a particular use, and choosing a quality custom manufacturer to provide new parts and components to replace old, worn parts is essential.
When replacing existing ball valves, or when designing a new valve for a product or system, working closely with custom ball valve manufacturers is important. These companies may provide an online design program that allows your engineering team to input all the information on the require new or replacement part, and then the manufacturer produces the valve to those specifications.
In designing your own valves through the apps or website programs from top ball valve manufacturers, there are several factors that need to be known and considered before submitting an order.
Ball Valve Type
While the most common option is the standard two-way ball valve, which has one inlet and one outlet, there are come complex options to consider. A three, four or five-way ball valve can be very effective for directing, diverting and mixing gas, water, liquids, vacuum and other types of applications, including in refrigeration and HVAC types of systems.
End Configurations
Ends, or how the ball valve connects with inlet and outlet tubing, pipes or other system components are also essential. Pipe thread is common with metal valves, while hose barb is common with PVC and other plastic materials. Flare, push to connect, and even specialized ends are possible.
Valve Body Material
There are different materials possible through top ball valve manufacturers to develop the valve body. Generally, manufacturers catering to specific industries will offer custom valves in any material that the industry uses.
In addition to the valve body, customized valve configurations also allow the designer to choose the handle type, the seal options, and the mount type, if required, for the valve.