Bronze ball valves are valve bodies made from bronze material with a spherical disc inside that controls fluid flow. They are used to start, stop and regulate flow in piping systems.
The main parts are the valve body, ball, stem, seat, packing, and end connectors. The ball has a hole bored through the centre and when aligned with the seats allows flow. Rotating the stem and ball 90 degrees stops flow.
Bronze ball valves are commonly used to isolate equipment for maintenance, regulate flow, and as shutoff valves in applications like air, water, steam, oil and gas. They are durable and corrosion resistant.
Advantages include full bore for unrestricted flow, quarter turn on/off operation, tight sealing, and the ability to throttle and regulate flow. Bronze is also resistant to corrosion.
Disadvantages include higher cost than other valve types, seating surfaces can get damaged over time, and limitations on temperature and pressure depending on design.
Rotating the valve handle 90 degrees turns the ball with the bore perpendicular to the flow path, blocking flow between the end connectors. Rotating it back aligns the bore with the seats and allows flow through the valve.
The Cv value represents the flow rate of water in gallons per minute at 60°F with a pressure drop of 1 psi. It's determined by the valve's bore size and ranges from low Cv to full port high Cv values.
Routine maintenance involves cycling the valve, lubricating the stem if needed, and replacing seats and gaskets. The valve may need disassembly to clean or replace internal components.
Pressure ratings range from 150 psi to 4500 psi depending on design. Temperature ranges are -4°F to 450°F for conventional bronze and -325°F to 1000°F for high temp bronze.
Match the valve size to the pipe size. Review Cv values to ensure adequate flow capacity. Also consider pressure ratings and temperature compatibility with the application.
End connections include threaded, soldered, flanged, and compression fittings. Threaded ends are common for low pressure applications. Flanges provide high strength connections.
Key standards include MSS SP-110 for 2-piece bronze valves and MSS SP-72 for 3-piece bronze and steel valves. Manufacturing often complies with ISO, API, ASME, and ASTM standards.