Ball check valves
AVK offers ball check valves in DN 32-600 with NBR lined ball as standard and with polyurethane balls for abrasive media or when different ball weights are needed to prevent noise and water hammer. They can be installed in both horizontal and vertical positions.
What is a ball check valve?
A ball check valve functions by means of a ball that moves up and down inside the valve. The seat is machined to fit the ball, and the chamber is conically shaped to guide the ball into the seat to seal and stop a reverse flow.
If the pump capacity is not sufficient it is possible to choose a lighter ball, and if water hammer occurs when the pump stops, it may be solved by selecting a heavier ball.
Where are ball check valves used?
The purpose of using a ball check valve is to prevent backflow in a pipeline system and ball check valves are often placed on the outlet side of a pump to protect the pump. Ball check valves are commonly used in wastewater applications as well as in fire protection and irrigation systems.
Ball check valves are often preferred for use in pumping stations that are rarely attended, since they demand only limited maintenance, typically if the ball makes noise caused by insufficient pump capacity or water hammer.
AVK ball check valves designed for minimal maintenance
AVK ball check valves are self-cleaning, as the ball rotates during operation which eliminates the risk of impurities getting stuck on the ball. The standard ball is designed with a NBR rubber lined metal core, and the rubber hardness is optimized to prevent the ball from getting stuck in the seat. Balls of polyurethane are suitable for abrasive media and when different balls weights are needed to prevent noise and water hammer. A full and smooth bore ensures full flow with low pressure loss and eliminates the risk of deposits at the bottom that could prevent tight closure.
AVK ball check valves are available in ductile iron with epoxy coating internally and externally with flanges in DN 50-600 and with internal BSP threads in DN 32-50. Furthermore, in DN 32-80 they are also available in stainless steel AISI 316 for installation in aggressive surroundings.
Main features of AVK ball check valves
- Self-cleaning construction
- Full and smooth bore ensures low head loss
- Tightness at minimum back pressure
- Polyurethane balls available for abrasive media
- Different ball weights available
- In ductile iron or acid-resistant stainless steel
- Available up to DN 600
Typical challenges - and how to avoid these with the right ball check valves:
- Water hammer effect: use a + 20 % ball weight
- Vibrations and resonance from the valve: use a different ball weight
- The ball getting stuck in the seat: use min. shore 60 rubber on the ball or use metal core in the ball
