Models of electric ball valves

Design and features of a ball valve for gas

Ball valve for gas
The valve for domestic gas can be used for internal systems and for external lines; elements with a diameter from 2 to 12 inches are most often used. Ball mechanisms are necessary to completely shut off or open the gas flow; their main feature is the locking structure. It has the shape of a ball with a special through hole that corresponds to the diameter of the pipeline. If it is necessary to shut off the fuel supply, turn the valve 90 degrees so that it is located perpendicular to the pipe.

The process of controlling the part is carried out using a lever supplemented with sealed rings. Ball valves have many advantages, including good tightness and high insulating properties. Modern cranes are lightweight due to the use of special metals and alloys, are highly reliable and can be operated for 10 years without malfunctions.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the valve

The procedure for replacing the gas supply valve to the device is quite simple, but extremely responsible, since natural fuel is flammable, and when combined with air, it is an explosive substance. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you seek the help of specialists who have been trained and have received permission to carry out such work.

To replace a tap on a pipe you will need the following tools and materials:

• new locking mechanism to match the pipe;
• two gas wrenches No. 1 or No. 2, one of which will be needed to unscrew the thread, the second - to hold the lower pipe motionless (this will avoid damage to the pipeline leading to the gas stove);
• a means intended for sealing the place where the faucet is attached to the pipe (for this purpose you can use ordinary linen thread, FUM tape, Tangit Unilok thread);
• flat screwdriver;
• graphite grease, grease or other lubricants;
• plug for a 0.5-inch pipe with internal thread (when working together, you can do without this element).

If the threads or diameters of the pipes and the tap do not match, extensions, fittings, and adapters may also be needed.

The replacement process consists of a series of simple operations that must be performed as quickly as possible to minimize gas leakage from the system. First of all, you should shut off the supply of natural fuel to the apartment by placing the valve handle in a position perpendicular to the pipe.

After this, you can begin to dismantle the old tap, which is unscrewed from the pipeline. If the process is difficult to carry out, you can try treating the threaded connection with WD-40, which improves smoothness.

If a welded valve was previously installed in the room, it will have to be cut off using a grinder, after which additional threads should be cut on the pipes. A temporary plug is placed in place of the removed valve.

A thread is wound onto the thread for sealing. To do this, unscrew about 7 cm of thread and place it in the outermost recess of the thread, then wind the thread clockwise into each groove.

Having covered the thread with one layer of thread, you should continue winding in the opposite direction. After this, the laid insulation is covered with a layer of graphite lubricant or other suitable composition.

The plug is removed and a new tap is quickly placed in this place (it is important to make sure that its handle is in the “closed” position). The element is screwed on manually, the last turns are made with a wrench.

Types of gas taps

Design of a ball valve
There are various ball valves for domestic gas, differing from each other in design and appearance. All products consist of a standard set of parts:

• body part made of steel, brass or nickel;
• a section for connecting a pipe;
• neck part for the rod;
• a connecting rod that provides connection between the moving mechanism and the handle;
• shut-off ball to shut off gas.

Additionally, the ball is reinforced with a special seat that prevents it from moving, and is held in it with a ring. The seal, flange and springs are responsible for the tightness and connection of parts of the entire structure.

The main part of the device is the handle, which controls the locking mechanism. It is fixed in one place with a strong nut and is complemented by a stopper that limits its movement.

Ball

Internal structure of a ball valve
Cranes for apartments, houses, offices and enterprises can be made of brass or nickel. Elements of the first type have good sealing properties, do not cause difficulties during operation and are suitable for water pipes. Their nickel analogues can be full bore or reduced bore, taking into account the throughput. The most common are valves with external and internal threads, welded, flanged and threaded types.

Corner

The corner gas valve is equipped with inlet and outlet pipes located at an angle of 90 degrees towards each other. This structure allows the element to be used when installing units in hard-to-reach places, as well as in areas where bending of the main line is required.

Threaded

Threaded or coupling parts have a small diameter; they are most often used for domestic gas pipelines. They are connected to the pipeline using a threaded connection, from which they get their name.

Flanged

Flange valves are designed for external gas pipelines with a large diameter. The connection in them is carried out using the flange method using bolts. Such elements are dismountable, which makes it possible to dismantle them and then reinstall them in other areas.

Welded

Elements with a welded structure are also used for external gas pipelines; the diameter of such valves ranges from 10-70 mm. They are connected to the pipes by welding, so in the future these installation areas will not be dismountable. The list of advantages of the elements includes optimal tightness and a high level of reliability; in addition, welded fittings do not require additional maintenance.

Threaded

Welded

Flanged

Angular

Types of ball valves

Shut-off valves for domestic use have a fairly diverse range of devices; traditional metal products are being replaced by plastic types of ball valves due to the widespread use of polymer pipelines. The domestic market is filled with goods mainly through the receipt of shut-off valves from Russian (Valtec, Zubr brands), Chinese (RM, TIM, AquaHit trademarks) and Italian (Bugatti, Royal Thermo, FIV, Itap, Gecon, Remer) manufacturers.

It should be noted that the average service life of Russian and Chinese shut-off valves is 10 years, while more expensive Italian-made products can operate for at least 30 years.

According to the geometry of the body

Ball valves are used in unequal sections of the pipeline. The tap can be used as a walk-through valve with the same or different sizes of internal or external threads; it is often placed at a branch of a pipeline to drain or fill it with water. If the tap is used for irrigation, one of its ends is equipped with a fitting with a herringbone for attaching a flexible hose to clamps or wire; for rough cleaning of sand, a built-in filter is placed in the body of some models.

There are varieties designed to change the direction of flow; they have three inputs (three-way). Others are convenient to install in a pipeline that changes its angular position - their body is equipped with connecting pipes located at an angle (angular types).

Rice. 7 Design, components and markings of the Bugatti three-way valve

According to dimensional parameters

Markings on the valve body in the form of the letters DN indicate the diameter of the channel passage in millimeters and less often in inches; the following nominal sizes are generally accepted: 1⁄2 (15 mm), 3⁄4 (20 mm), 1 (25 mm), 1 1⁄ 4 (32 mm), 1 1⁄2 (40 mm), 2 (50 mm) inches. It should be noted that for household shut-off valves in cold and hot water supply and heating systems, the highest size is considered to be a section of 32 mm. Almost all taps with channel passages up to 50 mm are equipped with threaded pipes; for 50 mm and above, the fittings are equipped with disk plates for flange connections.

By working pressure

Nominal pressure (letters PN with a number) is the second indicator that is marked on the body of all water taps. The digital designation shows how much pressure the valve can withstand during its operational life at an ambient temperature of 20° C. The digital value of Pn is indicated in atmospheres (bars) corresponding to 0.1 mPa, standard values ​​are 10, 16, 25, 40, less common imported models (Bugatti) with higher pressure characteristics of 50 and 64 bar.

Type of passageway

Ball valves are produced in two types - with a reduced bore, one standard size (1/4 inch) smaller than the pipeline cross-section, and full bore. When choosing shut-off valves, they try to take this factor into account by installing full-bore devices in a section of the pipeline, where they have the least hydraulic resistance to flow. Models with a reduced channel passage are best installed on branch branches for draining or filling pipes with liquid - then their diameter will not have any effect on the performance of the system.

Rice. 8 Large industrial taps with threads and flanges

Pipe connection method

It was noted above that in the vast majority of cases, metal ball valves for pipelines with a diameter of up to 50 mm are made for a threaded connection. Large models from 50 mm are often made with flanges. Industrial varieties made of ferrous metals are produced for welding; household varieties for installation in polymer pipelines are equipped with pipes for soldering (PP polypropylene), gluing (PVC polyvinyl chloride), compression or press connections, respectively, to pipes made of low-density polyethylene (HDPE) or metal plastic (PEX- AL-PEX).

Hull designs

Cranes come with all-metal or collapsible bodies; the latter assembly option is more advantageous in that the device can be disassembled and worn seat rings or a damaged shut-off sphere can be replaced. When operating shut-off ball valves, it is recommended to turn the handle regularly (once a month) to avoid its failure due to the deposition of limescale on the parts. The good thing about the collapsible design is that it can be repaired or cleaned if it is impossible to bring the device into working condition after a long period of inactivity.

Rice. 9 Types with compression and press fittings for metal-plastic pipes

Handle shape and material

All types of ball valves are equipped with handles of various shapes; this was not done by chance and determines the scope of use of the devices.

• Console single-lever models tend to be installed in places without direct access to people or in limited space. In this case, the handle cannot be accidentally moved, and thanks to the long lever, it is convenient to turn it in a hard-to-reach place with the finger of one hand.
• Fittings with a butterfly handle are mounted at points where accidental contact is possible, since to turn it you will have to apply more force than for a console model, the likelihood of its accidental opening is significantly reduced.
• A butterfly-type handle with one small plate is used to supply water to washing machines; it is also difficult to turn by accidental touch, and the small overall dimensions and the same chrome plating as the faucet increase the decorative nature of the product.

Household faucet handles are made of steel or aluminum with powder coating in red, black or yellow colors, polymer materials.

Rice. 10 Valves with polypropylene solder connections

Locking element device

The locking metal sphere is made of two types (Fig. 4):

• With a floating sphere. The ball has a rectangular slot for the rod in the upper part; it is directed along the flow when the channel is closed. As a result of pressure on the surface, the ball moves along the slot along the rod and is pressed against the seat ring with force, providing a reliable and tight seal. Floating balls are installed in fittings of relatively small overall dimensions.
• With a sphere on supports. In this type of design, the ball is fixed on the spindle through a through hole at the top, and has a protruding pin at the bottom, which is located in the body recess.

During shut-off operation, the sphere is in a stationary position, and the sealing of the passage channel is ensured by pressing the seat rings to its surface. The design is characterized by easier movement and is used in large-sized products; often the lower axle is installed on bearings to facilitate rotation.

Rice. 11 Varieties of PP polypropylene and HDPE low-density polyethylene

Case material

The main material from which the bodies of household taps are made is brass; it is often galvanized or chrome-plated when fittings are used in visible places (water supply to the washing machine from the mixer). There are very cheap models of Chinese devices made of silumin, an alloy of aluminum and silicon, but due to the fragility and low strength of the material, their service life can be counted in hours.

Recently, the number of taps made from polymer materials – polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP) – has increased.

Drive type

In everyday life, manually operated faucets are used, but in the retail chain you can find devices equipped with an electric drive. In industry and public utilities, ball valves with hydraulic or pneumatic control can be installed.

Type of working environment

There are two main types of household ball valves - for supplying cold, hot water or gas, the latter have a yellow handle. Structurally, the devices differ little from each other; the main difference is the use of different materials for seat and rod seals.

Rice. 12 Models with electric drive

The wide range of ball valves currently produced allows their effective use in household metal and polymer pipelines. The main suppliers of products to the market are Chinese and Italian manufacturers; when choosing, you should take into account not only the cost, but also the service life of Italian devices of 30 years, which is 3 times longer than that of competitors.

Differences from plumbing fittings

The water tap is painted red.
The gas valve differs from the water tap in the appearance of the lever, which is yellow instead of red, as well as in a number of design features:

• long connecting thread;
• more durable housing and locking mechanism;
• ability to withstand high pressure;
• the presence of strong and sealed rings.

Despite the fact that a standard gas faucet is more expensive, it cannot be replaced with water fittings, since such savings may lead to the replacement of the main elements of the system as a result of an accident.

Types of gas taps

There are many types of shut-off devices that are installed on gas pipes. Based on the features of their designs, two main groups can be distinguished:

Variety #1: cork

Until recently, this was the most common type of gas tap. The central part of such models is a conical element (plug) with a hole.

When opening the device using a flywheel, the hole in the conical part is aligned with the same one in the pipe, allowing gas to pass to the equipment. A gland is usually used to connect plug valves to the pipeline to create a seal.

Variety #2: ball

The main part of this type of locking element is a spherical part made of strong metal. As in its cork counterparts, it has a hole, which, when turning the handle, is aligned with the pipe, thereby ensuring access of natural fuel to the corresponding device.

Such valves appeared relatively recently and quickly gained popularity due to their many advantages, namely:

• low cost;
• excellent functionality and safety margin;
• long service life;
• ease of operation;
• ability to work in various environments at temperatures from -60 to +80 o C.

Due to the combination of valuable qualities, experts now give preference to spherical structures when equipping household gas systems.

According to the method of connection to pipes, there are several subtypes of ball valves:

• Threaded (coupling). In this case, the tap is connected to a section of the gas pipeline using a threaded part.
• Flanged . Fastening is carried out using flanges fixed with bolts. Such devices are most often used when transporting gaseous substances and oil.
• Welded . In this case, the tap is firmly welded to the pipe using an appropriate apparatus.

According to their purpose, ball valves are divided into three types:

• Three-way, used for redistribution of gas flows;
• With a heated body, used in cold climates;
• With leakage control.

There is also a division according to the diameter of the passage.

According to this indicator, details can be classified into two categories:

Another classification takes into account the nominal pressure that the valve can withstand.

In this case, there are two types of devices:

• PN 1.6 MPa 16 kg/cm2;
• PN 4.0 MPa 40 kg/cm2.

Ball valves can be made from different types of metal. The most widely used elements are those made from brass, zinc, steel 20 and alloys (09G2S, 12Х18Н10Т), plastic.

The best qualities are demonstrated by brass devices, which can have a yellow or silver color (the latter is typical for nickel-plated models). Devices made from this alloy can be recognized by their relatively heavy weight.

Featuring a robust, versatile design, brass taps are durable, low maintenance and can be installed in any position.

Features of application

In most cases, ball valves are installed in places where gas equipment is used, for example, in the kitchen, and a separate valve is needed for each source of fuel consumption. Shut-off valves can be used to shut off and control flow, for example, a three-way valve makes it possible to direct flow from one pipeline to the next.

The tap for a standard gas pipe in the kitchen must match the features of the system and the type of equipment. Most often, threaded elements are installed in such rooms, which do not cause problems during installation and throughout the entire service life.

Peculiarities

So, special ball valves have recently been used in gas pipelines. These devices are designed to completely shut off or open the gas flow. The peculiarity of these devices is contained in the locking mechanism, which is made in the shape of a ball with a through hole. Moreover, the diameter of the hole coincides with the diameter of the pipeline (see also the article “Where and how is a high-pressure valve used”).

To block the flow, the ball is rotated so that the hole is perpendicular to the pipeline, i.e. it must be rotated 90 degrees. The locking mechanism is controlled using a lever. Tightness is ensured by rings made of soft and durable materials.

Differences from plumbing fittings

It must be stated that the external difference between a gas tap and a water tap is that the lever is yellow and not red.

There are much more structural differences:

• They have a more durable body, which is made of special types of steel or brass with a high copper content.
• They have a longer connecting thread.
• The locking mechanism is made of very durable chrome-plated or nickel-plated material.
• The rod is made of particularly durable polymer material.
• These taps can withstand greater pressure than taps.
• O-rings are stronger and provide a better seal.

Note! Despite the fact that the price of gas taps is higher, they cannot be replaced with water fittings, since the savings can be very expensive. But it is not permitted to use gas shut-off valves instead of water valves.

In general, the only difference between a gas tap and a water shut-off valve is the increased level of tightness. The remaining issues are not so serious in domestic gas pipelines. Based on this, in principle, any valve that meets tightness class “A” can be used for a gas pipeline.

Features of application

In most cases, shut-off valves for gas pipelines are installed in the kitchen, i.e. where gas equipment is used. Moreover, a separate valve is installed for each source of consumption.

For example, in buildings and apartments where gas stoves and water heaters or boilers are installed, I install separate gas taps for stoves and for other devices. In addition, usually one non-specialized valve is installed at the inlet, which allows you to completely shut off the gas supply.

It must be stated that shut-off valves are used not only to shut off the flow, but also to control it; for example, a gas three-way valve allows the flow to be redirected from one pipeline to another. Indeed, such devices are not used in everyday life.

Advice! When supplying a home with bottled gas, it is possible not to install non-specialized shut-off valves, since a valve is constantly mounted on the cylinder, allowing the gas to be shut off.

Features of replacing a gas valve

Ball valves of any type are not immune to breakdowns, so if a fault is detected, the element must be urgently replaced. It is better to entrust this work to gas service specialists. A new tap is purchased based on the diameter of the gas pipeline, which must correspond exactly to it.

Before the expert arrives, you need to light the gas on the stove and close the valve, directing the burner and waiting for it to completely extinguish to allow the remaining fuel to exit the gas pipeline. After completing the work, the specialist must definitely test the shut-off valves for leaks and enter information about replacing the element in the technical passport.

Tips for replacing gas taps

In apartments or houses, gas communications last for many years. The only thing is that they require periodic inspections and maintenance (painting of pipes). The most vulnerable parts of such structures are gas valves. Of course, they are used several times a day, or even more. It is due to heavy loads that gas valves break. Breakdowns of gas taps made from low-quality raw materials occur especially often. Plastic products break down faster than others.

Not everyone knows when the faucet needs to be replaced. The answer is simple - when you smell an unpleasant aroma characteristic of gas, you need to check where the smell is richest. If the leak is in the gas valve area, then it should be replaced.

Inspect the product, you may notice cracks or other damage on it. Maybe the tap turns tightly or, on the contrary, turns too freely, then we can safely say that the device is out of order. But you cannot replace the locking device yourself. Don’t tempt fate - call a gas service worker.

It will replace your gas tap for free, your only task is to buy the right mechanism that will fit your gas pipes and will last for many years. We described the selection rules above.

Replacing a gas tap is carried out using a special technology and must be performed by a person who has permission to do such work

If there is a need to change the device, do the following:

1. First, dial the number of the gas utility and report your problem to the dispatcher.
2. Buy a suitable faucet, take into account the diameter of the pipes, thread pitch, and other nuances. Don't choose the cheapest product.
3. Prepare documentation for gas specialists. Most likely you will need: a technical passport, gas supply documentation.
4. When the employee arrives, he will ask you to light the burner and close the valve that controls the gas supply. This will allow the fuel to come out of the pipe.
5. All work on replacing or repairing gas equipment must be carried out in a well-ventilated area.
6. The technician will replace the tap and check its operation, and he must also check for gas leaks.
7. When the repair of gas communications is completed, the specialist will ask for a technical passport and make a record of the work done.

A natural fuel leak is detected by using soap foam. Foam is applied to the joints and faucet, and then the foam is carefully monitored. If there is a gas leak, bubbles begin to form in this area.

Operating rules

A dielectric coupling is necessary to reduce the impact of stray currents.
In order for a ball valve for domestic gas to last as long as possible, standard recommendations must be followed during its maintenance. The element is designed to quickly shut off the gas flow inside the pipeline. It can only be opened and closed using the factory handle; it is prohibited to use any tools for this purpose.

The design of the valve itself is not intended for flow control; the element has only two operating positions: open and closed. If it is half-open, the rapid flow of pumped fuel can cause deformation of the sealing rings, as a result of which the valve will quickly become unusable and will have to be replaced. The element must not be used in environments with contaminants that could cause mechanical damage to the gaskets. Sometimes the fastenings of the rotary handles become loose, in such cases it is necessary to tighten the screws securing them. If there are leaks in the stuffing box seals of the rods, adjust the nuts located under the valve handles.

According to instructions from crane manufacturers, any repair work, including replacement of the device, is prohibited from being carried out independently without the necessary skills.

Manufacturers of household gas taps

When choosing shut-off valves, you need to pay attention to all the details and purchase only high-quality products from well-known manufacturers. Products from Italian companies FIV, Valtec and Bugatti have proven themselves best. Devices from the German brands Dungs and Profactor, the Polish brands Broen Ballomax and Efar, as well as the Russian concern LD are also of good quality.

It is not recommended to save money and give preference to Chinese manufacturers, since such fittings do not meet international standards and requirements.