A ball valve is a subcategory of a shut-off valve that controls the flow of a liquid or a gas. As the name suggests, it is controlled by a rotary ball that has a bore. When the ball is rotated 90 degrees about its axis, the fluid either freely flows through the valve or is obstructed, unlike a control valve that regulates the flow of fluids.
The number of ball valve options is seemingly infinite. To decide which ball valve suits your specific requirement, several aspects have to be compared, like seat material, end connections, port ball, number of pieces, and the type of packing.
As for the number of pieces, ball valves are available in one, two, or three pieces. A one piece ball valve is inexpensive and easily replaceable. Hence, it is not repaired. It is used for functions with low loads and pressures. The main confusion occurs between the use and advantages of a 2 piece ball valve vs. 3 piece ball valve. The differences between the two valve types are listed out below.
A 2 piece ball valve consists of two separate pieces that are either connected via a bolt and flange assembly or threaded assembly. 2 piece ball valves are the most widely used ball valves and are suitable for any application where the flow of liquids and gases needs to be controlled.
These are also referred to as 2 way ball valves since it allows a liquid or gas to flow in any direction between the inlet and outlet. One piece of this valve comprises an end connection and the body.
Its second piece fits into the former, holding the trim in place and providing the second end connection. This ball valve type can be utilized for bidirectional flow shutoff or full port service. The flow rate in 2 piece ball valves can be controlled by partially opening or closing the valve.
When these valves have a threaded assembly, they can be installed easily with no tools required. Once installed, these valves need to be removed from the overall assembly in order to be repaired or cleaned.
The best way to understand the differences between a 3 piece vs 2 piece ball valve, is to understand the advantages of both. Listed below are the advantages of 2 piece ball valves.
2 piece ball valves can be used for a variety of applications since their diameter can vary from a few millimetres to a few meters. Its simple structure, high sealing performance, and operational convenience make it ideal to be used under high pressure or vacuum conditions. 2 piece ball valves are typically used in foodservice equipment, automotive fluid filling devices, and liquid filling equipment.
A 3 piece ball valve comprises three pieces, specifically, a pair of connecting ends and the main body. The end cap can be connected to the pipeline via a flanged, welded, clamped, or threaded assembly.
One of the most significant advantages of 3 piece ball valves is that they are easy to disassemble. Its central body can be removed for maintenance and cleaning without disrupting the entire pipeline’s functioning.
Once cleaned and serviced, the central body can be reattached to the end caps without any hassle, hence, reducing maintenance costs. If the price of a 3 piece ball valve vs 2 piece ball valve is compared, the former is more expensive but can be cheaper in the long run since maintenance costs are reduced.
3 piece ball valves are preferred for processes that have a heavy reliance and demand on valves. Since these processes require the sealants and seats to be routinely replaced, a 3 piece valve offers flexibility in terms of disassembly, servicing, and reassembly, without stopping the entire pipeline.
In addition, valves offered by leading valve vendors have the added advantage of easy elastomer change. Due to this aspect, the valves are suitable for different process conditions, flows, pressures, and even temperatures, making them ideal for high-cycle or extreme operations, as seen in the manufacturing industry.
From a larger perspective, both the 2 piece and 3 piece ball valves are used to completely start or stop the flow of fluids. The main point of comparison in the debate of a 3 piece vs 2 piece ball valve for a specific function lies in their design.
While a 2 piece valve is more economical as compared to a 3 piece valve, the latter can prove to be more cost-effective in the long run since it is easier to maintain. A 3 piece valve’s main design advantage is that it can be easily disassembled, and its seats and seals can be changed, while its end caps can continue functioning in the line.
Ball valves are among the most widely used valves and are used to completely start, stop or regulate the flow of fluids in a system. They are utilized for several commercial, industrial, and institutional purposes.
The main difference between 2 piece and 3 piece ball valves is that the latter is costlier but can be disassembled, serviced, and reassembled. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to budget and maintenance needs. Contact a premier valve manufacturer today to get high-quality, custom valves for specific industries.
The 2 piece stainless steel ball valve is probably the most widely used ball valve. The 2 piece ball valve will open or shut off flow on most liquids and gases quickly and easily and is suitable for just about any application where a simple on/off action is needed. Flow rate can also be controlled by partially opening or closing the valve to various degrees. Also referred to as a two-way ball valve, since it allows flow in any direction straight through from inlet to outlet. Being threaded ball valves they are quick to install and easy to use, requiring no tooling for installation. The two piece ball valve is the best priced full port ball valve (full bore), allowing the inside diameter of the pipe to remain constant and unrestricted. This means that the 2 piece SS ball valve has no pressure drop and keeps the flow rate high.
Threaded Connection: Female Threads x Female Threads
Port: Full Port Valve (Full Bore, Maximum ID)
Pressure: Rated to 1000 PSI
Seals: PTFE/Teflon (Heat and Chemical Resistant)
Handle: Lever Type with Locking Latch and Blow Out Proof Stem
Sizes: 1/4" up to 4"