In industrial applications, ball valves are widely used in fluid control systems due to their simple operation and reliable performance. Among them, Orbit Ball Valves and conventional ball valves are two common types. Although they may appear similar, there are significant differences in their structural design, operating principles, application scenarios, and performance.

1. Structural Design

Orbit Ball Valves:

(1) Eccentric design: The Orbit Ball Valve employs an eccentric motion design, where the ball first moves along an eccentric path during opening and closing, and then rotates. This process reduces friction between the ball and the valve seat.

(2) Metal-to-metal sealing: It typically uses a metal-to-metal sealing design, capable of withstanding higher temperatures and pressures.

(3) Special track: The ball of the Orbit Ball Valve moves along a track, ensuring smooth and frictionless operation.

Conventional Ball Valves:

(1) Direct rotation design: Conventional ball valves achieve opening and closing through the direct rotation of the ball, which makes direct contact with the valve seat during rotation.

(2) Soft or metal sealing: Conventional ball valves can use soft seals (such as PTFE) or metal seals, depending on the application requirements.

(3) Simple structure: The design is relatively straightforward, resulting in lower manufacturing and maintenance costs.

2. Operating Principle

Orbit Ball Valves:

Eccentric movement and rotation: The ball moves eccentrically before rotating 90 degrees to the fully open or closed position. This frictionless design reduces operating torque and extends the valve's service life.

Conventional Ball Valves:

Direct rotation: The ball opens or closes by rotating 90 degrees, with direct contact between the ball and the seat, which may result in higher operating torque and wear.

3. Sealing Performance

Orbit Ball Valves:

(1) High reliability: Due to the reduced friction from the eccentric motion, the sealing performance of Orbit Ball Valves is more reliable, making them particularly suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature, and corrosive environments.

(2) Bidirectional sealing: Orbit Ball Valves typically feature bidirectional sealing, providing reliable sealing in both directions.

Conventional Ball Valves:

(1) Suitable for various sealing materials: Soft or metal seals can be selected based on different application requirements, but their sealing reliability may not be as high as that of Orbit Ball Valves, especially under harsh conditions.

(2) Unidirectional or bidirectional sealing: Standard ball valves may offer unidirectional or bidirectional sealing, but their bidirectional sealing performance is typically not as effective as that of Orbit Ball Valves.

4. Operating Torque

Orbit Ball Valves:

Low operating torque: The frictionless design significantly reduces the required operating torque, making the valve easier to operate and particularly suitable for automated control systems.

Conventional Ball Valves:

High operating torque: Due to the direct contact between the ball and the seat, the operating torque of a standard ball valve is relatively high, especially under high-pressure conditions.

5. Service Life and Maintenance

Orbit Ball Valves:

(1) Long service life: The frictionless design reduces wear on the sealing surfaces, resulting in a longer service life and lower maintenance costs.

(2) Low maintenance requirements: Due to its reliable design, the Orbit Ball Valve typically requires less maintenance and servicing.

Conventional Ball Valves:

(1) Relatively shorter lifespan: Due to the wear of the sealing surfaces, the lifespan of standard ball valves may be shorter, especially with frequent operation.

(2) Higher maintenance requirements: Regular inspection and replacement of seals are necessary to ensure their sealing performance.

6. Applicable Working Conditions

Orbit Ball Valves:

Severe conditions: Suitable for harsh operating conditions such as high pressure, high temperature, and corrosive media, commonly used in critical applications in the oil, gas, and chemical industries.

Conventional Ball Valves:

General conditions: Suitable for standard operating conditions, such as low pressure, moderate temperature, and non-corrosive media control, widely used in water treatment, HVAC, and other industries.