What is the difference between the ball valve and the needle valve?
- kittylauren117
- Dec 26, 2020
- 2 min read
To handle flow control, there are certain valves that need to be selected to complete the process. The valves need to be chosen according to the type of fluid that you are going to handle. There are several control valves that are manufactured by the companies and the most commonly used valves are ball valves and needle valves. Both of them are the most popular forms of valves but differ in the manner of functionality. Their distinct manner of working makes them unique for different purposes. Let us discuss both in a detailed manner.
Ball valve
This is an on-off valve and is used to control the flow of liquid. The main element present in the valve is a ball that is opened or closed as per the requirement. The ball placed inside the valve is not just a simple solid ball rather it is made to fulfil the purpose of flow control and has a hole running through its centre. This hole facilitates the flow of water when the valve is switched on and the ball comes back to its original position, that is, at an angle of 90 degrees when the valve is switched off to stop the flow of water.
Advantages of ball valve
Low-pressure drop when open
Low maintenance
Exhibits diverse applications
Complete and unrestricted flow through full port ball valves
Needle valve
A needle can be as simple as a ball valve but also has certain advanced features to suit your needs. In the case of needle valves, there are certain settings that allow the valve to be half-open, fully open, or barely open. This is done with the help of a needle-shaped plunger that is adjustable.
It needs to be taken care of that you are in touch with a reputed needle valve supplier so that you get a valve that is fully functional and does not have any trouble in adjustments. The plunger should move up and down with ease and should perform its function properly. A good needle valve offers great precision to control the flow of fluid as compared to the ball valve.
The needle valve manufacturers ensure that the valve is finely tuned and has an enhanced degree of accuracy as compared to other products. This valve finds its use in the sampling lines, automatic combustion control system, and even gas bleeder lines. In a place where a greater level of control is required, it is better to go with the needle valves.

Advantages of the needle valve
Precision
High precision drop when open
Exhibits resistance to both hot and cold temperatures
Can be shut off with ease with finger-tight pressure
Be it a ball valve or a needle valve supplier, always ensure that the manufacturer is reputed and provides the best quality products. Their use in petrochemicals, wastewater treatment, manufacturing, and a lot more fields requires them to be manufactured with great precision and accuracy. Select the best source of import for the long term use of the valves and to bring efficiency in projects.
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