Views: 0 Author: J-VALVES Publish Time: 2023-05-19 Origin: Site
In water treatment systems, the selection of valves is of crucial importance. It not only affects the operating efficiency of the system but also directly relates to the system's reliability and service life. TRUNNION BALL VALVES (compliant with AWWA C509 standard) and GATE VALVES (compliant with AWWA C515 standard) are two common types of valves, each with its own advantages and disadvantages and suitable for different application scenarios. This article will conduct a detailed comparison of these two types of valves from multiple aspects to help you make a wiser decision when selecting valves for water treatment systems.
I. OVERVIEW
Trunnion Ball Valves (AWWA C509)
A trunnion ball valve is a high-performance ball valve. Its design is based on the fact that the ball is supported by trunnions and fixed on them, so it will not move or shift due to pressure. This design makes it particularly suitable for high-pressure and high-flow application scenarios. The AWWA C509 standard stipulates the design, material, manufacturing, and testing requirements for such valves to ensure their reliability and sealing performance in water treatment systems.
Gate Valves (AWWA C515)
A gate valve is a traditional isolation valve and is widely used in water treatment systems. The AWWA C515 standard is aimed at resilient-seated gate valves. Its design is based on high-strength ductile iron, which has a higher pressure rating and better corrosion resistance. This type of valve is suitable for occasions that require frequent operation and high sealing performance.
II. PERFORMANCE COMPARISON
The following table compares trunnion ball valves (AWWA C509) and gate valves (AWWA C515) in terms of several key performance indicators:
Performance Indicators | Trunnion Ball Valves (AWWA C509) | Gate Valves (AWWA C515) |
Material | The ball is usually made of stainless steel, and the valve body is made of cast iron or ductile iron | The valve body and gate are made of ductile iron, with the surface coated with high-performance rubber |
Sealing Performance | Zero leakage. The ball is fixed on the trunnions, resulting in high sealing performance | With a resilient seat design, it can achieve a drip-tight seal even when there are small solid deposits on the gate |
Pressure Rating | Suitable for medium and high-pressure systems, with a maximum of up to 200 psi | High pressure rating, with a maximum of up to 250 psi |
Operating Torque | The torque is relatively small, and the operation is smooth | The torque is relatively low, which is suitable for manual operation |
Flow Characteristics | Precise flow control, suitable for scenarios that require precise control | Full-bore design, with little flow loss, suitable for large-flow applications |
Corrosion Resistance | Requires an additional anti-corrosion coating and is suitable for general corrosive environments | Made of ductile iron and coated with rubber, with strong corrosion resistance |
Maintenance Cost | Maintenance is relatively complicated and requires regular inspection of trunnions and seals | Maintenance is simple, and the upper seal can be replaced when the valve is fully open |
Applicable Scenarios | Industrial applications with high pressure and high flow | Water treatment systems that require frequent operation and large flow |
III. APPLICATION SCENARIOS
Trunnion Ball Valves (AWWA C509)
• High-pressure Water Transmission Pipelines: Due to its excellent sealing performance and high-pressure bearing capacity, trunnion ball valves are very suitable for high-pressure water transmission pipeline systems and can effectively prevent leakage.
• Industrial Water Systems: In industrial water systems that require precise control of flow and pressure, trunnion ball valves can provide stable performance.
Gate Valves (AWWA C515)
• Municipal Water Supply Systems: The full-bore design and low operating torque of gate valves make them an ideal choice for municipal water supply systems, which can reduce flow loss and pumping costs.
• Fire Protection Systems: Their high sealing performance and corrosion resistance make them suitable for fire protection systems, ensuring reliable operation in emergency situations.
IV. SUMMARY
Both TRUNNION BALL VALVES (AWWA C509) and GATE VALVES (AWWA C515) have their own advantages. TRUNNION BALL VALVES are more suitable for industrial applications with high pressure and high flow, while GATE VALVES perform excellently in municipal water supply and fire protection systems. When selecting valves, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive consideration based on specific application scenarios, system pressure, flow requirements, and maintenance convenience. It is hoped that the comparative analysis in this article can help you make a more appropriate choice in the selection of valves for water treatment systems.
