In specific types of applications, particularly when there are refrigeration systems, it is critical to use only quality parts and components. This goes for the lines running the coolant as well as the specific connectors, fittings and the valves in use throughout the system.
Refrigeration ball valve designs need to carefully consider to ensure the lowest possible leak rates. Ball valves that allow even slight leakage result in increased costs of operation of the system with the need to continually add refrigerant. Additionally, low refrigerant levels can result in a higher risk of system and component failure or, in some cases, increased spoilage of products that results in additional costs to the business.
What to Consider
The role of the refrigeration ball valve is to allow the coolant to flow through the system when the valve is open and to stop the flow when it is turned to the off position. This is a quarter turn type of valve that can be operated manually or, for large systems, with a motorized actuator. The use of the actuator makes it easy to deploy and use a refrigeration ball valve even in difficult to access or remote locations.
As a refrigeration ball valve can be exposed to a range of temperatures from extremely cold to extremely hot, it is essential to consider the temperature range of the application when choosing the valve. Additionally, check to make the valve is designed to work with the pressure through the system. Verify the ball valve can operate at the maximum possible system pressure to avoid valve failure at critical times.
For most applications, it is also necessary to confirm the ball valves used in a refrigeration system are compatible with the specific ant refrigerant or any other fluids or oils used in the application.
