Palloventtiileillä

Palloventtiileillä, often translated as ball valves, are a type of quarter-turn valve that uses a hollow, pivoting ball to control the flow of fluid. The ball has a hole through the center, and when the handle is turned 90 degrees, the hole aligns with the pipe, allowing flow. When the handle is turned perpendicular to the pipe, the ball rotates to block the flow. This simple yet effective mechanism makes ball valves popular for both on-off and throttling applications.

The primary advantage of a ball valve is its quick operation. A quarter turn is all that is needed to fully open or close the valve, making them ideal for situations where rapid shut-off is required. They also offer a tight seal and are known for their durability and low maintenance. The ball itself is typically made of metal, plastic, or rubber, depending on the application and the type of fluid being handled. The valve body can also be constructed from various materials, including brass, stainless steel, cast iron, and PVC.

Ball valves are used in a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, water treatment, and HVAC systems. They are commonly found in pipelines, industrial equipment, and residential plumbing. Their ability to handle high pressures and temperatures, along with their resistance to corrosion and abrasion, further contributes to their widespread use. Different configurations, such as floating ball valves and trunnion-mounted ball valves, exist to suit specific operational demands.