Globe Valve Vs Ball Valve

Home Globe Valve Vs Ball Valve
15/08/2022
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Globe valves and ball valves are two types of valves commonly used in various applications. Both types of valves are used in a variety of industries and applications. So, how can one know which type of valve is right for the needs? It’s essential to choose the right valve for the job. In this blog, we’ll compare globe valve vs ball valve, highlighting the critical difference between ball and globe valve.

What Is Globe Valve?

Dombor Bolted Bonnet globe valve
Source: Dombor

Globe valves are one of the most common valves used in industrial applications. They are classified as linear motion valves, which means that a moving plug perpendicularly accomplishes the valve’s closing and opening to the fluid flow. Globe valves are named for their spherical shape and are used to regulate flow in various applications. 

Globe valves are well-suited for regulating flow in high-pressure applications and are often used in power plants and other industrial settings. They are also used in home applications, such as central heating systems. Globe valves are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of different applications. They can be manufactured from various materials, such as brass, bronze, cast iron, and stainless steel. 

There are two main types of china actuated globe valve: stop valves and regulating valves. Stop valves are used to shut off fluid flow in a pipeline while regulating valves control fluid flow through a pipeline. Globe valves are an excellent choice for industrial piping systems requiring high pressure and low leakage chances.

What Is a Ball Valve?

Dombor Globe Valve
Source: Dombor

A ball valve has a spherical disc that controls the flow of fluids (liquids, gasses, slurries) by opening, closing, or partially opening the valve. Ball valves are quarter-turn valves, requiring only a 90-degree turn to open or close. The industrial ball valve is open when the handle is aligned with the pipeline and closed when it is perpendicular to the pipeline.

The ball valve is one of the most widely used in residential and commercial applications because it is easy to operate and maintain. It is also a very versatile valve that can be used for various applications, such as controlling water flow in a plumbing system or regulating oil flow in an oil refinery.

Ball valves are classified according to how they are operated. Manual ball valves are used by hand, while an actuator operates automatic ball valves. Automatic ball valves are further classified into two types: pneumatically-actuated and electrically-actuated.

Pneumatically-actuated ball valves are operated by air pressure, while an electric current operates electrically-actuated ball valves. Automatic ball valves are more expensive than manual ball valves, but they offer the advantage of being able to be operated remotely. Ball valves are available in a variety of sizes and materials.

Globe Valve Vs Ball Valve

There is a massive difference between globe valve and ball valve. These two components of the linear valve group would be found in the pipe systems. What would do with these two? Take a look at the globe vs ball valve.

Structure

The main difference between the globe and gate valves is their appearance. The construction of the gate valve is more straightforward. The valve body’s top is where most of its internal parts are located. It becomes hollowed when turned on. There is a slight pressure drop because of this. It may find a rising stem or a non-rising one on the gate valve.

Many globe valve parts can be found within the cavity. Because its primary function is to throttle and deliver favorable shutdown, the design permits obstructions that help the globe valve achieve this goal. This design allows for flow changes that can contribute to high-pressure drops. The stem of the globe is rising.

Applications

Ball valves are characterized by a spherical-shaped closure element that seals against a seat in the valve’s body. On the other hand, Globe valves have a closure element that is disk-shaped and seals against a seat in the valve’s body. Due to the difference in their design, ball valves are better suited for use in applications where a quick shut-off is needed, such as in emergency shutdown situations. On the other hand, Globe valves are better suited for use in applications where a throttling action is required, such as in regulating the flow of a process fluid.

Working

Ball valves use a ball-shaped disk to control the flow of fluids. The ball has a hole in the center that aligns with the flow of the fluid when the valve is open. When the valve is closed, the ball is rotated to block the hole, stopping fluid flow.

Globe valves, on the other hand, use a disk that is attached to a stem. The disk is perforated, allowing fluid to flow when the valve opens. When the valve is closed, the disk is turned to block the opening, stopping fluid flow.

Function

The gate valve is not intended to control flow; it is designed for media isolation. The gate valve is not intended to handle the force of media flowing in partially open positions. The globe valve has a high capacity for controlling media flow.

Are Ball Valves Better Than Glove Valves?

Ball Valve 2
Source: Pinterest

The debate over which type of valve is better – ball valves or globe valves – has been ongoing for years. Each type of valve has its own advantages and disadvantages, and there is no clear consensus on which is better. 

Ball valves are known for their durability and ability to withstand high temperatures. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain. However, they are not as easy to control as glove valves, and they can be rather loud when in use.

Globe valves, on the other hand, are known for their precision and easy control. They are also much quieter than ball valves and can be used in various applications. However, they are not as durable as ball valves and can be more challenging to install and maintain.

Globe valves are typically used for applications where a tight seal is needed, such as in pipelines carrying hazardous materials. They are also well-suited for high-pressure applications. On the other hand, ball valves are often used when a quick, easy shut-off is needed, such as in a water line. Ball valves are also less likely to leak than glove valves. So, which type of valve is better? It depends on the specific application.

How To Choose Between Globe Valve vs Ball Valve

Dombor Globe Valve
Source: Dombor

There are many factors to consider when choosing between a globe valve versus ball valve. Here are five essential points to keep in mind:

  • Flow characteristics: Globe valves have a linear flow path and can reasonably control the flow rate. Ball valves have a more abrupt flow path and can be used for high-flow applications.
  • Valve size: Globe valves are available in larger sizes than ball valves.
  • Pressure drop: Globe valves have a higher pressure drop than ball valves.
  • Temperature: Globe valves can withstand higher temperatures than ball valves.
  • Cost: Globe valves are typically more expensive than ball valves.

Ultimately, the decision between a globe valve and a ball valve will come down to the specific needs and requirements. But keeping these five points in mind will help make the best decision for application.

Bottomline

Valve choice is an essential factor in the design of any piping system. Globe and ball valves are two of the most common valves used in the oil and gas industry. While both have benefits, globe valves are well suited for applications requiring a tight seal, such as in high-pressure systems. Ball valves are better for applications where a quick shut-off is needed, such as emergency shutdown systems. When looking for a valve for commercial uses, choose a trusted industrial valve manufacturer and do proper research before making any final decision.