Cryogenic Ball Valves

Cryogenic Temperature

Cryogenic temperatures typically refer to anything below -240°F and are usually associated with conditions where gases like oxygen and nitrogen are in their liquid state. Some examples are shown in the table below.

What Makes Cryogenic 2-Way Ball Valves Different

Cryogenic 2-way ball valves differ from standard ball valves in several ways. For example, cryogenic ball valves have an extended bonnet (long neck) to prevent the stem seals within the valve from freezing. They are also made from stainless steel alloys like austenitic stainless steel to prevent potential issues with embrittlement at such low temperatures. Cryogenic 2-way ball valves typically have vented or pressure-relief balls to deal with gas expansion that can lead to dangerous pressure buildups.

End Connections for Cryogenic 2-Way Ball Valves

At ValveMan, we’ve got several different end connection options for 2-way cryogenic valves. 

• Threaded (NPT): NPT connections are most common on smaller-diameter piping, typically ½″ to 2″, especially in low to moderate pressure service. They’re popular because they’re inexpensive, easy to install, and don’t require welding.
• Socket Weld: Socket weld fittings are widely used in high-pressure, high-temperature systems, particularly for small-bore piping. They reduce available leak paths compared to threaded joints.
• Butt Weld: Butt welds are standard for larger diameters, high-pressure, and high-temperature pipelines. They provide excellent strength, smooth internal flow, and long-term reliability.
• 150# Flange: Flanges are used for ease of assembly, disassembly, and maintenance, especially on larger lines. Class 150 flanges are common, but only suitable for relatively lower-pressure systems compared to 300#, 600#

For cryogenic applications, you’ll usually see the butt weld selected as the most effective for cryogenic applications. And there are several reasons for this, starting with the fact that the pipe ends are fused together with full penetration welds, which result in leak-proof integrity and smooth internal flow because there won’t be any pockets or crevices to trap fluid. These also withstand thermal stress very well.

Stem / Spindle Options

For cryogenic 2-way valves, the standard configuration is an extended stem to avoid seal freezing. This approach keps the packing at ambient temperature instead of cryogenic. These valves are also available with safety designs that include anti-static devices and blowout-proof stems. In addition, these designs use self-adjusting seals to ensure better sealing during extreme temperature variables. 

Operating Cryogenic 2-Way Ball Valves

One way of categorizing cryogenic valves is by how they are operated. There are three basic means of operation we offer at ValveMan:

• Manual operation: Valves equipped with locking handles for hand operation.
• Pneumatic operation: Includes both Double-Acting (air to open, air to close) and Spring Return (failsafe) actuators.
• Electric operation: Includes standard On/Off electric actuators and Modulating electric actuators (for precise flow control).

Cryogenic Applications

There are many different applications for cryogenic 2-way ball valves, depending on the valve chosen. These applications include …

• Aerospace
• Cryogenic Service
• Food Processing
• LNG 
• Liquid Argon
• Liquid H2
• Liquid N2
• Liquid O2
• LNG
• Petro-Chemical

ValveMan’s Cryogenic 2-Way Ball Valve Advantages

ValveMan is a trusted source, not just a supplier, of high-quality, proven cryogenic 2-way ball valves. We have carefully curated an inventory of engineering-backed recommendations along with our own extensive experience. The main brands we carry for our cryogenic valve solutions are our house brand, ValveMan, and the AVCO 1500 Series.

ValveMan also provides fast shipping and reliable sourcing for a wide range of sanitary valve solutions from well-known, proven companies.