What Are Actuated Ball Valves and Their Common Types?


Actuated ball valves are a common fluid system component that can be used when automated control is required. Instead of relying on manual interaction for the valve to open and close, the actuated ball valve automatically operates through the use of an actuator and control signal. The force necessary for a change can be supplied through varying means, including the use of an electrically controlled motor, pneumatic device, or hydraulic device. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of the actuated ball valve and common types, allowing you to familiarize yourself with such components and their applications.

As actuators and ball valves are often used in unison for numerous applications, it can be quite beneficial to procure them as a single unit for the means of guaranteeing conformity. Additionally, having both components within a shared housing allows for a remotely controlled, automatic ball valve to be established. For the valve ball and actuator to interact with one another, a connection is established with a shaft or stem. During operations, the actuated ball valve will be able to move the stem a quarter of a turn through its direct connection. While actuators and ball valves are often paired by brand, most can be used with one another as long as they are both manufactured to the ISO 5211 standard.

Actuated ball valves are commonly classified by their type of movement, and the most common variations are the double-acting actuator and spring-return actuated valve. With a double-acting actuator type, fluids will be directed to both sides of the piston assembly, and the movement necessary for actuation is achieved by one side having more pressure than the other. With such devices, hydraulic or pneumatic force is relied on for opening and shutting the valve. The spring-return valve, otherwise known as a single-acting actuated valve, differs in the fact that fluids are only directed to one side. On the opposing side, a spring provides energy for actuation. To cause the valve to change position, hydraulic or pneumatic force will need to overcome the pressure of the spring.

Whether the valve is an electric actuated ball valve, relies on hydraulic actuators, or a pneumatic actuator, all adjustments will be made upon the receipt of a control signal. Actuated ball valves are often made to change positions based on readings that are provided by a sensor, those of which may act on changes of temperature and pressure or when the sensor reaches a preset threshold. For example, a sensor may track the amount of fluid in an area, actuating the ball valve when there is more space available so that fluids flow.

Actuated ball valves are known for their high reliability and ability to completely stop the flow of fluids, making them fairly advantageous for a wide number of systems. As they can also be customized in terms of materials, sizes, and pressure capabilities, they are quite diverse. If you find yourself in need of actuated ball valves that you can steadily depend on, look no further than AOG Purchasing.

AOG Purchasing is a platform owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, and we offer customers access to over 2 billion new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find components that have been sourced from leading manufacturers that we trust. As you explore our expansive part catalogs, you may request quotes on items at any time through the submission of an RFQ form. Upon receiving a completed form, a dedicated account manager will reach out to you within 15 minutes to provide a customized quote for your comparisons. Get in touch with a representative today and see how we can serve as your purchasing partner for all your operational needs.


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