Ball Valves

Valves are devices which are used to control, divert, or regulate the flow of liquids or gases. They do this by opening, closing, or partially blocking a pipe or line. They can be operated manually or automatically and are used in a wide variety of applications. They are found in many household appliances such as cookers, washing machines, and dishwashers.

There are two main ways of categorising valves: by function, or by mechanical motion.

The functional designations are isolation valves, regulation valves, safety-relief valves, non-return valves, and special purpose valves.

The different mechanical motion classifications are: linear motion, rotary motion, and quarter-turn. Linear motion valves have a closure mechanism that moves in a straight line, rotary motion valves have a closure mechanism that moves along a circular or angular path, and quarter turn valves require a quarter turn to open/close.

Ball valves are one of the most-popular types of valves and are often preferred above gate valves or globe valves. A ball valve uses a perforated hollow ball which is rotated to block or unblock. They come in different designs such as V-port, full bore, or reduced bore. They are reliable and durable and can support high pressures and high temperatures.

Here at Heating and Plumbing World, we offer a vast range of valves from leading manufacturers, including ACV, Alpha Ocean Spares, Altecnic Ltd, Ariston, Baxi, Gledhill, Glow Worm, Kingspan, Stuart Turner, Vaillant Spares, and Worcester Spares. This selection includes lever ball valves in several sizes and colours (WRAS approved). These valves can deal with working pressures of up to 25 bar and temperatures ranging from -20 to +99 degrees Celsius.

When selecting a ball valve, there are a number of factors to take into consideration, including: operation type (manual or automatic), circuit function, housing material, seal type, connection type/size, flow coefficient, pressure levels, operating temperature, and approvals/certifications.

If you are unsure as to which specific valve you need, please feel free to give us a call for friendly expert advice.