Frequently asked questions
What are ball valves and what are they used for?
Ball valves are shut-off valves that regulate or stop the flow of liquids, gases, or vapours in a piping system. They can be operated manually via a lever or automatically as an actuated ball valve, using a spherical bore ball valve for precise quarter-turn flow control. The internal bore within the ball is fundamental to its on/off functionality.
What makes Omal ball valves unique?
Omal ball valves, distributed exclusively by Tectra Automation, stand out due to their precision Italian engineering, robust construction, and specific certifications. Available with intuitive lever operation or as actuated ball valves for automated control, and in a range of durable materials, including PVC ball valves, they are built to withstand harsh conditions, offering reliability in critical applications.
What are the four types of ball valves?
Ball valves are typically categorised by their port design:
- Full port ball valve: This type of ball valve is ideal for applications where the required flow rate is high. The valve has a bore that is the same size as the pipeline to allow minimal restrictions to the flow of fluid.
- Reduced port ball valve: This valve is best utilised in applications where flow control is crucial. The ball valve has a bore smaller than the pipeline.
- V-port ball valve: The ball valve’s v-shaped ball allows a more precise flow control. It is best applied where the flow needs to be accurate.
- Multiport ball valve: Equipped with multiple ports (e.g., three-way, four-way) to direct or divert fluid streams in various flow patterns.
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What types of ball valves are available from Omal?
What are high-pressure ball valves?
High-pressure ball valves are types of ball valves that are designed to handle high-pressure applications. They offer precision and reliability in fluid transfer control, making them suitable for use in industries such as energy and power generation, oil and gas, and mining.
What are the advantages of ball valves?
The advantages of ball valves include:
- High Efficiency: Their full-bore design ensures minimal pressure drop and high flow capacity, making them ideal as high flow ball valves and reducing turbulence.
- Convenience: With their simple quarter-turn lever operation and compact ball valve design, these lever ball valves are efficient and easy to use.
- Robustness: Engineered to withstand high temperatures and harsh conditions, ensuring durability and a long service life.
- Economical: Requires low maintenance, contributing to cost-effective plant operation and reduced downtime.
Who are some of the ball valve manufacturers in Africa?
While there are various suppliers,
Tectra Automation, a company within the Bosch Rexroth Africa Group, is the exclusive distributor of
Omal Automation's high-performance process ball valves across Africa. Omal is a globally recognised leader in valve manufacturing.
