Floating ball valves are an efficient solution for fluid control across various industries. Their design allows sealing by adjusting the ball against the seat, ensuring effective flow closure.
However, choosing the right seat type is crucial for optimizing performance according to operating conditions. In this article, we analyze the differences between floating ball valves with soft seats and those with metal-to-metal seats, as well as their industrial applications.
How Do Floating Ball Valves Work?
Floating ball valves operate through a stem connected to the top of the ball, allowing it to rotate 90 degrees (a quarter turn). This rotation opens or closes the fluid passage. When the fluid flows through the valve, the pressure pushes the ball against its downstream seat, creating a tight seal. However, in very low-pressure situations, the sealing effectiveness diminishes over time due to seat wear. Nevertheless, in most cases, the pressure is sufficient to maintain a strong seal even after prolonged use.
Comparison: Soft Seat vs. Metal-to-Metal Seat
| Soft seated floating ball valves | Metal to metal floating ball valves |
| Characteristics: – Sealing surfaces made of non-metallic thermoplastic materials such as PTFE, Nylon, and PEEK, suitable for operating temperatures below 270°C. – Hermetic sealing prevents fluid or gas leaks. – Ideal for applications with moderate temperatures and pressures. | Characteristics: – Seats made of metal alloys such as stainless steel, Stellite, or tungsten. – Designed to withstand high temperatures and extreme pressures. – Ideal for handling abrasive fluids or those with suspended particles. – Longer service life in demanding environments. |
| Industrial Sectors: – Chemical and pharmaceutical industries. – Water treatment and fluid processing. – Gas distribution systems. – Food and beverage industry. | Industrial Sectors: – Petrochemical industry and refineries. – Processes with highly abrasive fluids. – High-pressure and high-temperature applications. – Cryogenic and steam systems. |
Choosing the Right Seat Type
The choice between a soft seat or a metal-to-metal seat depends on the working environment and process safety conditions. For applications where fluids are clean and a hermetic seal is required, soft-seat valves are the best option. If the goal is to maintain resistance to extreme temperatures, metal-to-metal seat valves offer greater durability.
At FHT Valves, we offer a wide range of floating ball valves, both with soft seats and metal-to-metal seats, designed to ensure maximum performance across various industries. Additionally, we tailor our solutions to each customer’s specific needs, ensuring that all our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
