Electric Ball Valves

Electric ball valves, or motorized ball valves, are an essential part of many different industries. It allows users to regulate the flow of liquids and gases at will. Below, we’ll share everything you need to know about electric ball valves.

What Is an Electric Ball Valve?

An electric ball valve, also known as a motorized ball valve, is a special type of mechanism that uses an electric actuator to open or close a ball valve. When you require, you can turn the sytem on or off by applying electric, without access to the internal workings of the system.

How Does an Electric Ball Valve Work?

As the name suggests, an electric ball valve consists largely of a ball. However, the ball has a bore drilled through its center. When motorized ball valves are opened, the bore aligns with the rest of the pipe, allowing gases or liquids to pass through.

When the valves are closed, the unperforated side of the ball faces the pipe, blocking liquids and gases from passing through. Each electric ball valve contains an electronic actuator that provides the motion for the ball and determines whether the valve is open or closed.

What Are the Common Applications of Electric Ball Valves?

Electric ball valves are used in a wide array of different applications and industries. Some of the most common would include the following:

• Water and wastewater management
• AC and HVAC systems
• Process control systems
• Oil and gas pipelines
• Chemical processing
• Agriculture and irrigation
• Fire protection systems

These are just a few of the many ways in which electric ball valves find use within industry or society as a whole. Some of these are essential, and others may seem insignificant. However, in every instance, electric ball valves help simplify and expedite the process involved.

Types of Motorized Ball Valves

The difference in motorized ball valves reflect variances in applications, often dictated by port configurations. For example, Bonomi offers electrically actuated ball valves with several port choices, including "Full," "T,"  and  "L"  designs. Full (and/or reduced) refers to bore diameter, while T and L refer to bore/port shapes. Each port design serves a specific function, making it ideal for particular applications:

• Bonomi 8E064 - This brass bodied 2-way, electrically actuated ball valve features a full port. The advantage of a full port--the hole through the ball--is that this bore is the same internal diameter as the rest of the valve. This means the flow of fluid is not restricted in any way as it travels through the valve (when fully open, and the bore is in-line with the pipe). There is no reduction in fluid movement, and no loss in pressure. A full port electric ball valve is perfect for an application in which mixed fluids must travel through a valve: the absence of restrictions aids in the prevention of fluid separation (and unnecessary build-up within the valve).
• Bonomi 8E065 - A 3-way valve, this electric ball valve--featuring a brass body and chrome-plated ball--utilizes a reduced bore, "T" port.  Ideal for applications where pressure is not a concern, but function is, a T port valve is perfect for controlling fluid travel in two lines. It also offers the luxury of stopping feed to one line, while allowing flow to the other, or neither.
• Bonomi 8E066 - Constructed of lead-free brass, this 3-way electric ball valve features an "L" port. L ports differ from T ports in that they can only feed fluid to one line or another. However, this ability is extremely useful in applications that require the addition of more than one fluid into a mix. Combinations that need to be introduced in measured succession can be controlled easily with an L port valve.

These represent three common configurations in motoriezed ball valves, and this trio projects Bonomi perfection. Bonomi is a trusted name, and world leader, in electrically actuated ball valves, as the company has been in business and family owned for seven generations. A top choice for the perfect electrically actuated ball valve. 

Electric Ball Valves - Available Materials and Sizes

Like many other valves, electric ball valves come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and materials. Different types of systems may require different materials and sizes. Just a few of the materials electronic ball valves may be made from include the following:

• PVC
• Lead-free brass
• Brass
• Stainless steel
• Carbon Steel

Because electric ball valves get used in so many different applications, there are various sizes on the market. Some of the options you may encounter include the following:

• 1/4"
• 3/8"
• 1/2"
• 3/4"
• 1"
• 1-1/4"
• 1-1/2"
• 2"
• 2-1/2"
• 3"
• 4"
• 5"
• 6"
• 8"

Depending on the industry and application where you're planning on using the valve, the size and materials may differ significantly. It's critical that you know which materials and sizes are suitable for your purpose before you buy a valve.

What Are the Advantages of Using Electric Ball Valves?

There are various advantages and benefits of using electric ball valves. To mention just a few,

• They give you precise control over the flow rate of liquids and gases. Thanks to the precision adjustment that goes with motorized ball valves, you can regulate process parameters to minute degrees.
• They have rapid response times, which means you can switch the valves on and off nearly instantly.
• You can automate valves or activate and deactivate them via remote control. This remote integration allows you to control various parts of the system from a single central location.
• They're incredibly versatile. You can use electric ball valves for various media, including liquids, gases, and slurries.
• They're highly energy efficient. Because they require so little energy to work, these valves can make a huge difference in the amount of power used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Electric Ball Valves Suitable for Both On/Off and Throttling Applications?

Yes, electric ball valves are suitable for both types of applications. They can be used as standard on-and-off valves by opening or closing the valve all the way. They can also be used to throttle flow by opening or closing them only a part of the way.

How Do I Select the Right Electric Ball Valve for My Application?

There are various things you need to bear in mind when you're trying to decide upon an appropriate motorized ball valve for your application. Some of the most significant include the following:

• The material being transported
• The desired size
• The flow pressure of the system
• The temperature range of the materials being transported
• Flow characteristics
• Power supply requirements
• Industry and use-specific requirements

Where Can I Buy Electric Ball Valves?

ValveMan offers a broad range of different motorized and electric ball valves. For the best offers and prices, take a closer look at our vast collection of motorized ball valves. From PVC to stainless steel, one-inch to eight-inch, we have something that will match your requirements.

If you need extra information along the way, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to give you whatever assistance and quotations you might need.

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