Ball check valves
AVK offers ball check valves in DN32-600 with NBR lined balls as standard. For applications with abrasive media or specific requirements to prevent noise and water hammer, polyurethane balls and balls with custom weight are available. AVK ball check valves can be installed in horisontal or vertical position.
What is a ball check valve?
Ball check valves operate by means of a ball that moves up and down inside the valve chamber. The seat is machined to fit the ball, and the conical chamber ensures that the ball is consistently guided back into the seat to block reverse flow effectively.
If the pump capacity is insufficient, a lighter ball can be used. Conversely, a heavier ball can be used if water hammer occurs when the pump stops.
Where are ball check valves used?
Ball check valves are designed to prevent backflow in pipeline systems, making them a critical component in many installations. Ball check valves are often installed at the pump outlet to safeguard the pump and are widely used in wastewater systems, as well as in irrigation networks and fire protection applications.
Ball check valves are ideal for use in pumping stations with limited personnel due to their minimal maintenance needs. In rare instances with noise caused by insufficient pump capacity or water hammer, adjusting the ball weight typically resolves the issue.
AVK ball check valves are designed for minimal maintenance
AVK ball check valves are self-cleaning. The ball rotates during operation and eliminates the risk of impurities adhering to its surface. The standard ball is designed with an NBR rubber-lined metal core with rubber hardness optimised to prevent the ball from getting stuck in the seat. For abrasive media and scenarios when specific ball weights are needed to prevent noise and water hammer, balls of polyurethane are available. The valve’s smooth, full bore supports unrestricted flow with minimal pressure loss, reducing the risk of accumulation of deposits at the bottom, which could prevent tight closure.
Material options for varied environments
AVK ball check valves are available in ductile iron with epoxy coating internally and externally with flanges in DN50-600 and with internal BSP threads in DN32-50. Furthermore, they are available in stainless steel AISI 316 for installation in harsh environments with flanges in DN80, 100 and 150 and with internal BSP threads in DN32-80.
Main features of AVK ball check valves
- Self-cleaning construction ensures optimal performance
- Smooth, full bore minimises head loss and prevents deposits
- Tightness maintained even at low back pressure
- Polyurethane balls available for abrasive media
- Different ball weights available to address specific challenges
- Available in ductile iron and acid-resistant stainless steel
- Available in sizes up to DN600
Solving common challenges with the right ball selection
AVK provides solutions for common operational challenges:
- Water hammer: use a ball with 20 % additional weight
- Vibrations and resonance from the valve: use an alternative ball weight
