Floating vs Trunnion Ball Valves: understanding the engineering difference Selecting the correct valve configuration is a critical aspect in the design of piping systems for industries such as Oil & Gas, petrochemical and power generation. Two of the most common configurations are floating ball valves and trunnion mounted ball valves, each designed to address specific operating conditions. Floating Ball Valves In this configuration, the ball is not mechanically fixed but is supported by the valve seats. When pressure is applied, the ball is pushed against the downstream seat, creating the sealing effect. Typical characteristics include: • simpler design • reduced manufacturing complexity • suitable for smaller sizes and lower pressure classes For many standard applications, floating valves represent a reliable and cost-effective solution. Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves In trunnion designs, the ball is supported by a shaft (the trunnion) that absorbs the mechanical loads generated by pressure and flow forces. This configuration offers several advantages: • significantly reduced operating torque • improved stability under high pressure conditions • better sealing performance for large diameter valves • suitability for critical service applications For large sizes and demanding environments, trunnion mounted valves provide superior operational reliability. At Memit Valves Italia, our engineering approach focuses on selecting and designing the most suitable valve configuration based on the specific process conditions and customer requirements. #memitvalves #industrialvalves #engineering #oilandgas #processindustry
