Are ball valves sanitary?

They’re usually used in biopharmaceutical, chemical, medical, food, beverage, dairy, and other personal care applications like cosmetics. The ball valve is deemed sanitary because: The valve limits crevices and cavities which would otherwise trap media and encourage bacterial activity.

Are ball valves isolation?

Isolation Ball Valves are used to shut off the flow of water to the manifold. Isolation Ball Valves are used in commercial and industrial applications for a full range of liquids and gases.

How do you maintain a ball valve?

Ball valves are not very high maintenance parts. Other than worn O rings that seal the ball inside the valve body, keeping the valve clean and free-turning with a little lubrication is all it needs. It’s when a valve looses its lubrication and debris or corrosion builds up that it can become hard to turn.

What is a sanitary valve?

Sanitary valves are designed for use in applications requiring clean or sterile processing. In order for a valve be considered sanitary it must NOT have crevices or cavities that can trap media which bacteria can feed on and multiply. Some of the common sanitary valve applications are: Dairy. Food & Beverage.

Is Gate Valve better than ball valve?

Ball valves are more effective at forming a tight seal and have more reliability and longevity than gate valves, but tend to be more expensive. They are often used for shutoff and control applications. Because ball valves can open and close immediately, they are more likely than gate valves to cause water hammer.

Can you lubricate ball valves?

The ball and handle might require lubrication if the valve becomes difficult to turn. It’s easiest to lubricate the ball valve before gluing it to the connecting PVC pipes, but you can still lubricate it even after installation.

How often should valves be exercised?

Valves affecting hospitals, schools, and valves on water mains of diameter 16-inches or greater should be given priority, and should be exercised/assessed once per year.