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In industrial piping systems, especially those involving high pressure, large diameters, or critical media, choosing the right valve type is essential for ensuring long-term performance, safety, and reliability. One of the most trusted options in such applications is the trunnion mounted ball valve.

But what exactly is a trunnion mounted ball valve? How does it work? And why is it preferred in demanding environments such as oil & gas, petrochemical, power, and water treatment? Let’s explore.

What Is a Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve?

A trunnion mounted ball valve is a type of ball valve that uses a fixed ball supported by a trunnion — a mechanical anchoring system that absorbs the thrust from fluid pressure. Unlike floating ball valves, where the ball is held in place by the seats, the trunnion design secures the ball at the top and bottom, reducing seat wear and improving operational efficiency in high-pressure conditions.

This design makes the valve ideal for:

• High-pressure, high-temperature environments

• Large-diameter pipelines

• Bi-directional flow control

• Heavy-duty industrial applications

Working Principle

The trunnion mounted ball valve operates similarly to other ball valves, with a rotating ball featuring a bore (hole) through its center. When aligned with the pipeline, the bore allows full flow. When turned 90 degrees, the flow is blocked.

The difference lies in how the ball is supported:

• In a trunnion design, the ball is fixed and does not shift under pressure.

• The valve seats are spring-loaded and move toward the ball to maintain a tight seal.

• The trunnion absorbs the thrust from pressure, reducing the torque required to operate the valve.

This mechanism enhances durability and reduces the risk of leakage, even in high-pressure scenarios.

Key Advantages of Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves

1. Low Operating Torque

The trunnion support system significantly reduces the friction between the ball and seats. As a result, less torque is needed to open or close the valve — making it compatible with electric or pneumatic actuators for automation.

2. Superior Sealing Performance

Thanks to the spring-loaded seat design, trunnion ball valves maintain tight sealing even at low pressures. This bidirectional sealing capability is crucial in safety-critical applications.

3. High Pressure and Large Size Capability

Trunnion ball valves are engineered to withstand very high operating pressures and are available in large diameters — often exceeding DN1000 — making them ideal for transmission pipelines and critical infrastructure.

4. Long Service Life

Because the ball is not floating or relying solely on pressure to stay in position, the wear and tear on valve seats is minimized. This leads to longer life cycles and reduced maintenance costs.

5. Emergency Sealant Injection System

Many trunnion valves come with an emergency sealing system that allows sealant to be injected in case of seat failure — an added layer of protection in vital systems.

Trusted Manufacturing by Zhejiang Wandong Valve Co., Ltd.

When it comes to sourcing high-quality trunnion mounted ball valves, Zhejiang Wandong Valve Co., Ltd. stands out as a vertically integrated manufacturer with deep expertise in the valve industry. The company operates four specialized workshops, ensuring strict control over every stage of production:

• Ball Valve Workshop – Focused on advanced ball valve technology, including trunnion and floating types.

• Large-Caliber Gate Valve Workshop – Tailored for high-diameter pipeline solutions.

• Special Stainless Steel Valve Workshop – For corrosion-resistant and exotic alloy applications.

• Multi-Function Workshop – Producing gate valves, globe valves, check valves, Y-strainers, and more.

With extensive experience in supplying valves for oil, gas, chemical, and power industries, Zhejiang Wandong Valve delivers both standardized and customized solutions, adhering to international certifications and quality standards.

Final Thoughts

A trunnion mounted ball valve is more than just a component — it's a critical element in ensuring flow control, system integrity, and safety in demanding industrial environments. With its low operating torque, high-pressure resilience, and superior sealing design, it offers a long-term, reliable solution for complex systems.

When selecting a supplier for your industrial valve needs, partnering with a trusted manufacturer like Zhejiang Wandong Valve Co., Ltd. guarantees the performance and longevity your project requires.

http://www.wdfmvalves.com
Zhejiang Wandong Valve Co., Ltd.

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