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The Primary Components of a Wellhead

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 18:46:02 GMT

If you work in the oil industry, you’ve likely come in contact with a wellhead at one point or another. However, many people don’t know the components that make a wellhead operate. Keep reading to learn the primary components of a wellhead.

Casing Components

There are three main casing components: the head, spool, and hangers. The casing head is there to help isolate the surface casing from any external factors. The head also helps support the weight that workers impose while drilling. The casing spool usually includes several casing strings, but some will only have one string. The casing spool acts as an additional seal to the head during the pressure from drilling. Lastly, the casing hanger can come in two types: a slip or mandrel hanger. Manufacturers install slip hangers when a pipe is stuck because you can replace a slip type after cutting the casing. You would use a mandrel hanger if you’re readily able to use the threading on the wellhead. In general, casing hangers are a primary seal against interior elements.

Tubing Components

The tubing also comes in two primary components: a head and hanger. The tubing head allows for the suspension of tubing. Additionally, the head helps the well maintain high-pressure operations and testing different seals. The hanger, many refer to it as a dog nut, seals the wellhead and remains locked. There are several types of hangers and adapters for various uses, so be sure to contact an expert before your next purchase, or do some research to know which hanger is best for you.

Pack-off Components

Though they aren’t as popular anymore, pack-off flanges are worth noting. They’re usually found above the casing head or spool and offer an additional seal. Pack-off flanges are only helpful when you have to re-enter a well. However, these flanges can be helpful in testing and plugging a drillstring.

You should have a general understanding of the primary components of a wellhead whether you’re just beginning or you’ve been in the petroleum industry for decades. A wellhead is something you’ll be in contact with several times throughout your career.

Here at TVC, we’re one of the leading wellhead assembly manufacturers . Between our industry expertise and our 6A and 6D certifications, we’re certain we can help you with your needs. Contact us today for more information.

Advantages of Using an Industrial Butterfly Valve

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 19:33:39 GMT

It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting your career in the petroleum industry or if you’ve worked in the industry for decades—you’ve likely heard of butterfly valves. They’re one of the most common types of valves in the industry, and rightly so. Keep reading to learn the advantages of using an industrial butterfly valve.

Highly efficient

One of the main reasons companies and pipeline workers prefer butterfly valves is because they’re efficient. Additionally, the valves are easy to adjust and require minimal effort from workers due to butterfly valves having various actuation options. Finally, the simple and lightweight construction makes butterfly valves one of the easiest valves to maintain.

Available in several sizes

Butterfly valves are one of the most versatile options available to the industry because they’re available in many different sizes. The size options make these valves compatible with most pipelines, regardless of the line’s size. In some cases, a particular pipeline may need a valve with a compact size, and the butterfly valve is the best option for that need.

Great sealing in low-pressure scenarios

Every valve on the market has its own strengths and weaknesses. However, butterfly valves have exceptional sealing capabilities for any situation involving low pressure. The reason these valves are ideal in low-pressure scenarios is because the disk is lightweight, which makes sealing much easier. If you had to seal a high-pressure flow, you may be better off with a ball valve, as they’re a heavier duty alternative.

Butterfly valves, though they don’t seem like much at first, are hugely beneficial and widely accepted as a standard in the pipeline industry. If you’re looking for new valves for your pipeline with low pressure, look no further than butterfly valves. You’ve already seen some of the advantages of using an industrial butterfly valve, why not add them to your collection?

Here at Tiger Valve Company, we believe in making high-quality products that are reliable and user-friendly for the hard workers in the petroleum industry. Whether you’re looking for a resilient seated butterfly valve or any other valve type, we have what you need. Shop our extensive inventory today!

Common Types of Valve Actuators

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 15:52:27 GMT

Actuators are devices that help pipeline workers operate valves with a power source. The power can be electric, air (pneumatic), or flow (hydraulic)—which in our case would utilize gas or oil. Actuators function in two primary ways: linear and rotary. So without further ado, let’s get into the common types of valve actuators.

Manpower Actuator

Also known as a manual valve, these actuators typically require a worker to turn a wheel or lever. However, with the amount of pressure coming from within the pipes, people usually don’t prefer manual actuators because they’re difficult to operate. Manual actuators do have their advantages, though; for example, if you need the valve’s position to be accurate, manual actuators are ideal.

Pneumatic and Hydraulic Actuators

One of the common types of actuators are pneumatic, that is, air operated. However, organizations need to choose if they want a linear or rotary pneumatic actuator. A pneumatic linear actuator uses a compressor or manual pump that moves a piston throughout the pipe. On the other hand, a rotary pneumatic actuator still uses a compressor; however, instead of a piston, the actuator will use an oscillating rotating motion. Hydraulic actuators are like pneumatic actuators, with the exception of the power source. Hydraulic actuators operate using a liquid—most commonly oil. However, they work the same way pneumatic actuators do. The main benefit of hydraulic actuators compared to pneumatic is that hydraulic actuators operate more efficiently.

Electric Actuators

Lastly, electric actuators have become increasingly popular among the oil and gas industry. Two reasons people prefer using electric actuators are cleanliness and reliability. In other words, you don’t need to worry about compressed air or oil to operate the actuator. The linear version of an electric actuator operates based on the movement of screws and allows users to convert electricity into torque. On the other hand, a rotary electric actuator is ideal for projects involving common rotating valves, such as ball valves.

Before choosing an actuator, you must determine your purpose for the actuator. For example, some actuators may work great in one scenario, but that same actuator wouldn’t be as efficient in another scenario.

Here at Tiger Valve Company, we have a proven track record of expertise, along with our certifications from the American Petroleum Institute. We have an extensive inventory from different valves to rack and pinion actuators . Contact us today for more information.

Floating Ball Valves vs Trunnion Ball Valves

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:02:08 GMT

Knowing which ball valve is best for your project is a skill that every worker needs in the oil and gas industry. Two of the most common are floating ball valves and trunnion ball valves. Each valve has its own advantages which is why it’s important to know what makes them different.

Floating Ball Valves

One component that sets a floating ball valve apart from a trunnion is the ball itself. The ball suspends in the downstream due to the tight compression by the fixed valve seats. Because the ball suspends, it allows for workers to easily rotate the valve 90 degrees to either stop the stream or allow it to pass through. However, if the upstream is strong, these valves are very difficult to rotate because there’s so much pressure which is why these valves are ideal for low-pressure projects.

Trunnion Ball Valves

On the other hand, trunnion ball valves have a fixed ball while the seats can move slightly. While floating valves work with the downstream, trunnion valves work with the upstream. This allows trunnion valves to be among the most versatile options for pipes because they can operate with lower torque. Trunnion ball valves have become the most common valves because of their versatility, and they can handle both low and high pressures.

So, which valve is right for your project? A general rule of thumb is floating ball valves are best for low- to medium-pressure scenarios, and trunnion ball valves are best for high-pressure projects. However, trunnion valves are the most versatile, so they will work in most cases. Additionally, if you need automatic actuators, trunnion valves work best with automation.

Now that you’ve seen the comparison of floating ball valves vs trunnion ball valves, you have a better idea of which valve you need. Tiger Valve Company has all the valves and accessories you will need—from trunnion ball valves to flanged floating ball valves and everything in between. Contact us today for more information.

What Types of Valves Are Piggable

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 18:03:09 GMT

Pipelines need routine maintenance to ensure they’re holding up well and nothing is building up leading to a clog. One of the most common ways to clean and monitor pipelines is through pigging, which is a process of sending a device (a pig) through the pipeline to clean. While this is a common process, it doesn’t work for every valve. Here, we’ll answer what types of valves are piggable.

Through Conduit Valves and Ball Valves

With these valves offering high-performance and plenty of features, they’ve become an industry standard. Luckily, these common gate valves are piggable due to their through conduit design; however, it’s important to note that any valve that’s not a through conduit design will not be piggable. Some valves that aren’t a through design can become pigged, but they will require a specific pig, such as a smart pig. One of the most common valves that are piggable is Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves, also known as Shut-Off Pigging Valves . These are piggable due to their launching and receiving pig design, or otherwise known as an entry and exit point.

Some Check Valves and Gate Valves

While through conduit valves and ball valves are among the most common valves that are pig capable, there are more. For instance, there are some check valves and gate valves available that would be piggable. The most important note is if it doesn’t have a through conduit design, in general, it won’t be piggable. To make non-through conduit designs piggable, you’ll need what’s called a “smart pig,” which fits through some traditionally non-piggable valves thanks to its unique design.

Here at Tiger Valve Company, we’re a leading provider for products in the oil and gas industry, and we’re certified with the American Petroleum Institute. We strive to offer the best quality products and customer service through our extensive experience. Contact us today for more information—we can’t wait to work with you!

The Primary Components of a Gate Valve

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:26:10 GMT

A gate valve is a common type of bidirectional valve that a wide variety of different industries and process plants use. The primary function of a gate valve is to stop or start the flow of resources through a pipeline. Typically, gate valves are either fully open or fully closed when in use. They are ideal for situations which require minimal flow restriction and straight-line flow of fluid and are suitable for high-pressure and temperature applications. To learn about the primary components of a gate valve required for its effective operation, consult this guide.

Gate

The gate in a gate valve is responsible for providing effective sealing. There are several different types of gate designs to satisfy a multitude of differing applications. Some of the most common types of gates used in gate valves are parallel slide gates, slab gates, wedge gates, knife gates, and parallel expanding gates.

Stem

The purpose of the stem in a gate valve is to raise or lower the gate. Users can complete this task by spinning the threaded stem manually or controlling it using an actuator. There are two different types of stems depending on the threaded stem end: rising stem and non-rising stem. When rising stem gate valves open, the stem will rise above the handwheel. When non-rising stem gate valves open, the stem will not move upwards.

Bonnet

The purpose of the bonnet is to provide coverage for the internal components of a gate valve. The bonnet of a gate valve contains moving parts and typically attaches to the body of the valve using bolts or screws to form a leak-proof seal. However, you can typically remove it if repairs or maintenance is necessary.

Seat

Seats either come included inside the body of a gate valve or in seat ring construction. Integral seats consist of the same material as the valve body. In a seat ring construction, the seats thread into position or press into position before they become seal welded into the valve body. Such construction allows for more variation than integral seats and is ideal for higher temperature applications.

Tiger Valve is a leading valve manufacturing company in Houston, TX. Our wide range of high-quality products include gate valves, ball valves, shut-off pig valves, butterfly valves, and other engineered products for the oil and gas industry. For more information regarding our products, contact us today.

The Difference Between a Wellhead and Christmas Tree

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 14:24:42 GMT

Wellheads and Christmas trees are two distinct pieces of equipment that have several similarities. For example, they are both vital to gas and oil production, and they each have valves and other equipment that aids in the control and guidance of the flow of materials. Due to their similarities, they are often used as interchangeable terms. However, these two pieces of equipment are not the same. To better understand the difference between a wellhead and Christmas tree, continue reading.

Wellhead

Wellhead assembly components include heads, hangers, spools, and a series of seals. A wellhead is necessary to control the pressure during drilling and production. Without a wellhead, you cannot utilize a Christmas tree. However, you can use a wellhead without a Christmas tree during drilling operations. Additional functions of a wellhead include:

Allowing safe and controlled access to a live well
Serving as a point to suspend casing and tubing strings
Serving as a connection surface pressure-control equipment

Christmas tree

A Christmas tree is an assembly of valves, spools, chokes, and fittings named after the systems resemblance to a decorated Christmas tree. Five valves come included in a Christmas tree: The Kill Wing valve, the Swab valve, the production wing valve, the upper master valve, and the lower master valve. Professionals use Christmas trees for oil wells, gas wells, water disposal wells, water injection wells, gas injection wells, and several other types of wells. Its primary purpose is to control the flow of resources—typically oil or gas—into and out of a well during production. In addition, its functions also include:

Well intervention
Pressure relief
Chemical injection
Tree and well monitoring points
Flow composition and rate
Valve and choke position feedback
Connection points

Tiger Valve is an API Certified pipeline valve manufacturing company. Based in Houston, Texas, we sell a wide variety of engineered pipeline valves to customers in the US and Canada. Our products include API-6A wellhead equipment, API 6D floating ball valves, shut-off pig valves, severe metal seated ball valves, and other types of API-6A and 6D pipeline valves. For more information regarding our high-quality equipment, contact us today.

Advantages of Using an Industrial Gate Valve

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 15:35:09 GMT

Industrial gate valves are designed to operate as isolation valves which stop the flow of a medium to a given location. They are commonly used in pipelines to provide flow logic or connect external equipment to a system. Such valves are used for a wide variety of applications for pressure, temperature, and caliber. To learn more about the advantages of using an industrial gate valve, continue reading.

Fluid resistance

Gate valves offer a very small fluid resistance. The minimal fluid resistance is due to the straight inner media channel of the body which allows the medium to flow directly through the valve without changing direction. As such, the flow’s path is unobstructed.

Energy-efficiency

Gate valves are an energy-efficient valve option, as the movement direction or ram is perpendicular to the media flow direction. As a result, less power is consumed when opening or closing the gate valves in comparison to globe valves. Due to their energy-efficiency, they help reduce total ownership cost.

Simple body

Gate valves are composed of a relatively simple body. Therefore, they are easier to operate compared to isolation valves with more complex designs.

Dual flow direction

Gate valves have the capacity to be used in any direction in the circuit. In other words, their media flow is unobstructed for all directions of the valve body and they aren’t subject to the medium’s directional flow. This makes them ideal for use in pipelines where the flow direction may change depending on the medium.

Minimal erosion

In comparison to other valve options, gate valves typically experience less erosion on their sealing surface when they are fully open. This minimal erosion is largely attributed to the valve’s tight seal functioning.

Minimum pressure loss

Due to the laminar flow that they provide, the pressure loss of gate valves is minimal. It’s always helpful when pressure loss can be mitigated.

Tiger Valve is an API Certified hydraulic gate valve manufacturing company that specializes in the production of API 6A Gate Valves. In addition to hydraulic gate valves, we also produce other industrial pipeline valves, such as Trunnion-mounted ball valves, shut-off pig valves, and wellhead equipment. To learn more about our industry-leading products, contact us today.

Applications of Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:05:40 GMT

Widely admired for their extreme versatility, trunnion mounted ball valves have the ability to suit large-scale and high-pressure applications as well as compact and low-temperature circumstances. In addition, the customizable features, ease of operation, exceptional durability, and various other benefits of trunnion mounted ball valves allow many different industries to use them. To learn more about the many applications of trunnion mounted ball valves, continue reading.

Industries that utilize trunnion mounted ball valves

Oil and gas industries

Trunnion mounted ball valves are perfect for a wide range of applications among several oil and gas industries. Examples of oil and gas industries that utilize trunnion mounted ball valves include gas feed lines, field gas plants, industrial gas processing plants, oil refinery feedstock lines, and crude oil plants.

Pipeline industries

The ability of trunnion mounted ball valves to handle several different applications such as gasses, slurries, and liquids make them highly valuable in the pipeline industry.

Hydrocarbon industries

Because trunnion mounted ball valves are useful for the facilitation of hydrocarbon processing, they are extremely popular among hydrocarbon industries.

Power industries

Trunnion mounted ball valves are suitable for numerous applications such as turbines, skids, generators, compressors which are integral to the operation of power industries.

Chemical industries

Offering incredible safety, durability, and sealing capabilities, trunnion mounted ball valves suit a wide variety of chemical industries where such competencies are imperative.

Tiger Valve Company is a leading trunnion mounted ball valve manufacturer and provider of engineered products for diversified industries. If you’re searching for robust valve solutions, check out our vast variety of high-quality valves which includes flanged floating ball valves, shut-off pig valves, and API-6A gate valves. We also have resilient seated butterfly valves, threaded swing check valves, trunnion mounted ball valves, and more. For more information regarding our high-quality products, contact us today.

The Different Types and Styles of Ball Valves: Their Pros And Cons

carson.hu@tigervalve.com (Carson Hu) — Thu, 24 Oct 2019 17:49:00 GMT

Right now, there are over 3,000 facilities on the Outer Continental Shelf involved in the collection and treatment of oil and gas. These oils and gases are collected from wells -- a process that's performed using certain types of high pressure valves. Of course, different types of American ball valves offer different results and it's crucial that the right projects are executed with the right types of valves.

Quite often, the types of valves being used are ball valves, sometimes referred to as pig ball valves or pig vales (as they are used in conjunction with pipeline pigging systems). Before sourcing and investing in valves, it is important to understand the degree to which these valves may differ from one another. Let's delve into some of the defining characteristics of ball valve types.

Ball Valve Body Styles

Before getting into the exact types of ball valves that are available at the moment, it's important to remember that there are actually four separate types of body styles. These include the single body, split body, top entry, and welded styles. The styles of ball valves available differ from the types of ball valves available. This means that there are number of potential variations that you can see in ball valves. The great thing about this variety is that it means that there is more potential applicability in ball valves than there would be otherwise.

Full Port Ball Valves: Turning to the different body types of ball valves, we can first look at the full port ball valve. A full port ball valve is defined by the fact that it has an oversized ball. The oversized ball has a purpose -- it is the same size as the pipeline. This means that there will be less potential friction less than there would be if the ball wasn't the same size as the pipeline, and the flow involved is unrestricted. The valve is larger as well.
Standard Port Valves: As their name suggests, standard port valve are quite usual. This means they're less expensive than some alternatives. This type of valve has a smaller ball, and therefore the valve itself is smaller as well. The flow going through the pipe will in turn be smaller and will typically be about one pipe size smaller than the valve's pipe size. This makes it more restricted.
The V Port Ball Valve: The V port ball valve is named after its V-shaped seat. What this means is that the orifice through which the product flows can be more easily opened and closed to change its direction. While many like this idea, the construction of this type of valve means that it can't be used just anywhere. It typically needs to be utilized in a more secure site. When the valve is opened, it is usually opened at the "small end" first, which helps stabilize the flow control.
Trunnion Ball Valve: Then there is the trunnion ball valve, which doesn't exactly give much away through its name. This type of valve will actually anchor the valve at the top and the bottom through a particular mechanism. This would be applied on larger and more high pressure valves. While this type of valve isn't going to fit everyone's needs, it can definitely be used for particularly high pressure projects.
Manually Operated Valves: Finally, these types of valves can be closed more quickly than their counterparts. Though this is an advantage in some cases, it also means that there can be a risk of a water hammer. These can include an actuator, which can be pneumatically or motor operated, which will in turn be used for on/off flow control. The valve will also have a positioner, which transforms the control signal into an actuator position. The flexibility of this type of valve is certainly an advantage to most projects.

Now that you're more familiar with the styles and types of ball valves, you'll be in a better position to make decisions that will support your needs. For more information, please contact us today.

Gate Valves and Ball Valves: How To Use Them Effectively

carson.hu@tigervalve.com (Carson Hu) — Thu, 24 Oct 2019 17:42:58 GMT

Over 60% of our nation's energy is supplied by oil and gas. This makes it crucial for drillers to have the right equipment to ensure rigs and pipelines continue operating at optimal levels. If an improper valve is put in place, the operation could be slowed or even shut down completely, taking a toll on the overall supply delivered from that location. To help better understand the importance of valves, we’ll be taking a closer look at two important types: gate valves and ball valves.

Gate Valves

Gate valves are suitable for both underground and above ground applications and are designed to operate at either fully open or fully closed capacity. While they are typically installed on pipelines to serve as isolating valves, they should never be used for regulating or control.

Gate valves are best used when the minimal amount of pressure loss needs to be applied, as there are no obstructions when it is fully opened and when a free bore is needed. This type of valve is multi-turn, meaning that the operation relies on a threaded stem. The main benefit of this slower operation is a reduction of hydraulic shock caused by fluid changing direction or stopping suddenly.

Gate valves can be used in many conditions, including:

The movement of wastewater or neutral liquids that are between the temperatures of -20 to +70 degrees Celsius, with a maximum flow velocity of 5 m/s, and a standard pressure differential of 16 bar units.
The movement of gases between the temperatures of -20 to +60 degrees Celsius, with a maximum flow velocity of 20 m/s and a pressure difference of 16 bar units.

Gate valves can be found in two different types: wedge and parallel. Wedge shapes utilize two inclined seats and an included gate, while parallel types use a flat gate. The main difference lies in the methods of sealing with parallel gates relying on line force to aid in sealing, and wedge gates relying on torque.

Overall, gate valve s are some of the most common types to be used, able to offer an easy method of valve sealing that is capable of operating even at high temperatures.

Ball Valves

Ball valves serve as a good option for shut-off valves. With a quick 90-degree turn, you can easily open and close the valve, reducing both time and the risk of leaking. Ball valves can be found in both full bore and reduced bore varieties, with full bore fitting the diameter of the pipeline, and the reduced bore having a smaller diameter. Full bore ball valves are more highly sought after due in large part to their ability to minimize pressure loss.

Ball valves should only be used fully open or fully closed. This type is not recommended for flow regulation, as uneven pressure can cause the valve seat to become malformed over time. If this occurs, the potential for leaks increases.

The biggest advantage of using this type of valve is the lowered cost of manufacturing and maintenance. Additionally, they are compact, easy to open and close, and require no lubrication while still maintaining a high level of sealing.

Overall, high pressure ball valves are great for applications that require tight and secure shut off capabilities. This can be especially important when working with gases, as any leaks could be potentially hazardous.

Knowing Your Needs

These valve types are some of the most commonly used throughout many industries. Understanding their differences and their applications will ensure proper operation. If you have any questions or want to know more about what types of valves are best for your operation, don’t hesitate to reach out. The sooner you start to better understand your systems, the sooner you can begin running more efficiently overall.

Why Tiger Pig Valves Are Growing In Popularity

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 13:24:41 GMT

For the past few years, Tiger Pig Valves have become popular, especially in the petroleum industry. Why is it happening? Because oil and petroleum products suppliers are looking for the best mediums through which they can distribute their products. You will notice that they regularly upgrade their distribution lines and change accessories, including the valves.

With the world producing more than 4 billion metric tons of oil every year, you can expect suppliers to keep exploring the best distribution products. If you are wondering why this valve is suitable, here is the answer: it is fabricated with unique characteristics. Here is a detailed look at these valves.

Quality engineering practices

Hydraulic gate valves are judged depending on the craftsmanship behind them. You will notice that the difference between the best and worst brands is the way they address the challenges that users face. When you look at the Tiger Pig Valves being sold in the North American market, you will notice that the manufacturers did their homework. They knew the troubles that distributors were going through, and they went ahead to make valves that prevent those troubles. Therefore, you can expect to pump petroleum products in an efficient way when you use these products.

Ability to handle high pressure

The fact that the world continues to increase its oil production every year with the discovery of new oil fields means that there will be increased pressure to use effective equipment as suppliers seek to reach every consumer. Therefore, the only thing that you can expect is an increase in demand for pig valves that can withstand more pressure. They are reliable in cases when the oil has to flow at a higher speed. With this high pressure ball valve, you can see that all these concerns have been addressed.

Made by qualified experts

We all know that experience is the best teacher. It teaches us skills that we would not find anywhere else. Through expertise, manufacturers can hack things that they would never otherwise understand. It is because there are unique skills that they learn through various challenges at work. Therefore, every successful task makes them better. That is the story of Tiger Pig Valves. You must have noticed that they have done away with all the things that made valves ineffective. In addition to that, their valve supply has better functionality than any other in the world.

Excellent customer service

Customer service is the other thing that makes Tiger brands stand out from the rest. You may choose to contact them about anything relating to pig valves and see their response. First, they know that every customer wants a fast response. They avoid delays in responses that might keep you waiting for too long when the matter could be urgent. In addition to that, they have made information about these valves available on various platforms. You can see it on their website, local publications, and social media. You can also learn more about their gate and ball valves by calling them directly on the phone.

Other high-quality products and accessories

You will also like Tiger Pig Valves because they come with many other accessories. Simply put, you do not have to look any further for more oil distribution products. The manufacturer knows that every consumer wants to match their products, and that is what they will give you. Therefore, if you notice that there is an extra accessory that you need, do not hesitate to inquire from them how it will get to you.

To sum it up, you can always get high-quality oil distribution products from Tiger. The fantastic performance and strength of their pig valves and tubing hangers is a demonstration that they can help to make oil distribution more efficient. They are also taking feedback from regular users of these products to find out how they can make them better. Next time you have a project, whether big or small, you should consider using these valves.

Common Types of Valves That Oil and Gas Engineers Should Know

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 19:34:58 GMT

The demand for oil has experienced all-time high during the past decade. Statistics show that this consumption will rise to 109 million barrels by 2035, from 89 million barrels in 2012.

What does this mean? The oil and gas investors should employ clear measures to maximize on the rising demand. One way to do this is by investing more in the construction of wells for gas and oil products.

As an investor, you’ll need to engage a competent engineer to help you design and construct these wells. The engineer should be knowledgeable about any and all relevant laws and regulations. They should also advise you on the need to utilize a standardized wellhead design.

Do you know what a wellhead is? It’s the structure you place above your well to connect the tubing to the pipeline. It uses tubing hangers to contain pressure in your well, thus preventing collapse. The tubing hangers also play a vital role in sealing the well.

Why Does Your Wellhead need Valves and Tubing Hangers?

The oil and gas valves play a vital role in maintaining pressure and regulating the flow. As such, you need a competent engineer who knows more about tubing hangers and different types of valves. Let them explain to you the different types of valves and their functions, like how we've outlined below. Here is a list of the most common valves and the reason for their existence.

The Ball Valve: Ball valves are common in oil, liquids and gas industries. The users love them due to their ease of turning on and off. Further, the valve has a tight sealing with very low torque. They operate using a quarter-turn rotational motion that uses a ball-shaped disc to control movement. Once you open the valve, the holes in the ball align with the body’s inlet thus allowing the oil and gas to pass. Manufacturers use several metals to manufacture these balls while they use softer materials for seats. This combination of materials allows the ball valves to operate at extremely low or high temperature.

Gate Valves: The design of a gate valve allows it to either start or stop the flow of oil and gas. In most cases, you use this valve when you need a minimum flow restriction. In service, gate valves are either kept open or closed all the time. Opening this valve removes the gate disc allowing the content to pass through. It is bidirectional and boasts of high shut-off properties. However, they don’t open or close quickly. The gate valves are highly sensitive to vibration when you open them.

Butterfly Valves: Butterfly valves, like ball valves, are designed to be a quarter-turn rotational valve. The oil and gas industries use this valve to start, stop and regulate the contents that flow through the pipeline. The valve is easy and fast to open, it also comes with a gearbox allowing you to connect the hand wheel by gear to its stem. The presence of a gearbox makes its operation easier but slow. You’re also required to install the butterfly valves at a minimum of 6 pipe diameters from the line elements. Other than being lightweight, and easier to use, they’re also available in small or large sizes. With this, the valve can cope with declining pressure and its high recovery.

The demand for oil and gas products is rising. Thus, investing in this industry is a viable financial decision. You only need to ensure you get everything right from the start. For instance, do you know what a wellhead is? What are the different types of valves and tubing hangers that you can use in this industry? Take care and ensure you’re only using the right valve to meet your business goals. Don’t shy away from seeking advice from an engineer who is knowledgeable in this field. That’s how you’ll get value for your investment.

Use High-Quality Tubing Hangers to Avoid Issues

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 02:05:03 GMT

Ease of operation comes down to the quality of the materials that are used at the wellhead. High-quality tubing hangers are an important part of the puzzle when you are looking for a worry-free operation.

High-quality tubing hangers deliver the reliable seal that you can depend on. It is responsible for the seals between the production casing and the tube. It is a vital wellhead component. There are roughly 10 different types of tubing hangers on the market.

The Types

There are plenty of different options when it comes to tubing hangers with the main options being:

Wrap-around styles. These types are used to seal annulus but do not suspend the tubing.

Mandrel hanger. It has coupling threads on each end and a back pressure valve internally.

Extended necks. The extended neck types have a neck that extends above the tubing. Typically this type has extra seals in the neck.

Dual completions come in a wide range of string combinations.

Slip type hangers. Easily support tubing or casing in the bowl.

Tension hangers. A two-piece hanger configuration.

There is a wide range of options that are available that can help to deliver the wellhead support you need for your operation. Choosing quality parts is vital to getting the benefits out of tubing hangers that you need.

A trusted source can provide you with the options that you need. They will deliver the fast turn around on parts orders to ensure that you have what you need when you need it.

Made for Your System

Getting the hangers that you need starts with using the right source that carries a wide range of valves and other equipment that you can depend on. There are over 3,000 facilities in OCS that depend on having the right equipment on hand for the collection of oil and gas. Having the right equipment on hand keeps your operation competitive.

The right tubing hangers are the details that keep things productive. You can expect less downtime and overall safer operation with the right tubing hangers. Turn to a trusted source for your valve needs like high-pressure ball valve and pig valve needs and hanger needs and enjoy worry-free operation.

How to Choose the Right Pig Valve Supplier

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 22:05:22 GMT

How to Choose the Right Pig Valve Supplier

Choosing the right pig valves for your operations can be a challenge. With a rise in popularity of pig valve suppliers, it's hard to know which valve supply dependable service and products, and which ones should be avoided. If you're looking for a supplier to provide you with the best pig valves, but you're not sure how to begin your search, then follow our simple guide below to get started today.

The Growth of the Valve Supply Industry

First and foremost, it's prudent to have an awareness about the current state of the pig valve supply industry as a whole. Due to developments in manufacturing, commerce, and technology, there are more sources for pig valves than ever before. Take, for example, the recent numbers from the Valve World Americas Expo and Conference. Though it's a niche interest, the conference has seen remarkable growth in recent years. As part of the Valve World Americas Expo and Conference, over 320 companies exhibited with a total of 4,141 visitors for the entire event, including nearly 450 conference attendees in the year 2017. If these numbers are any reliable indicator, then you can expect the valve supply market to continue its growth in the years to come. Being prepared with a dependable supplier will help you stay ahead of the curve, and your competitors.

The Importance of Individual Consultation

Whether you're looking for ball valves, tubing hangers, or gate valves, the value of consultation from knowledgeable industry experts cannot be overlooked. By tailoring options to fit your unique needs, you are much better positioned to find the valves you're looking for, while also establishing a solid, long lasting relationship with your supplier. If custom parts are required, it helps to know from the start that you can trust your supplier to offer the necessary services. Budget concerns, of course, are another concern for any company looking to acquire pig valves. A trusted supplier communicates its fees and costs with transparency. This makes it much easier to develop a sustainable financial plan for your acquisitions.

While it's no surprise that finding the right valve supplier can be a challenge, with sufficient education and communication, your company can improve the odds of finding a company that makes business transactions go as smooth as possible. As the industry will only continue to grow, it's wise to be proactive in establishing a positive relationship with a supplier sooner rather than later. If you're still not settled on a valve supply company, then contact us today. With industry expertise and years of demonstrated experience, we'd love to help you find a solution that meets your needs.

How Do High Pressure Hydraulic Valves Work?

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 16:01:02 GMT

High pressure valves are used in a variety of industries, from global oil production (around 13% of which is produced by the U.S.) to aerospace manufacturing. In fact, they are found in virtually every hydraulic system and work to keep system pressures safely below a desired upper limit. Generally speaking, there are five different types of high pressure valves; let's take a look at each of them.

Relief: Fluid power systems operate within a preset pressure range. This range is a function of the forces the system must generate to do the required work; if these forces are not controlled or limited, they can cause damage to the (sometimes extremely) expensive equipment and fluid power components. Relief valves act as the safeguards which limit maximum pressure by diverting excess oil when the pressures get too high.

Reducing: Reducing valves are the most practical components when it comes to maintaining secondary, lower pressure in a hydraulic system. They're the only high pressure valve on this list that remains open and close when subjected to sufficient downstream pressure. They come in two types: direct acting and pilot operated.

Sequence: Some circuits have more than one actuator, so it's necessary to drive these actuators (such as cylinders) in a specific order or sequence. Limit switches, timers, and other electrical control devices are used for this purpose.

Counterbalance: These high pressure valves are primarily used to set pressure in part of a circuit, usually to counterbalance a weight or external force. The valve's main port is connected to the cylinder's rod end, and the pressure setting is slightly higher than that required to keep the load from free-falling.

Unloading: Unsurprisingly, unloading valves are used to unload pumps. They direct pump output flow (which is usually the output of one pump in a multi-pump system) directly to a reservoir at low pressure once system pressure has been reached. When an external pilot signal acting on the opposite end of the valve spool exerts a force large enough to exceed that exerted by the spring, the valve spool shifts and diverts pump outflow to the reservoir.

Finding the right valve for the job -- whether you need ball valves or gate valves -- is crucial in high pressure situations.

The Right Valves for the Right Job

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 15:25:25 GMT

Even though some have been critical of natural gas and oil, there are no signs of business slowing down. The world still needs power and heat, and oil and natural gas still reign supreme. In 2017, for example, the United States produced 571 million metric tons of oil and 734.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Managing the flow of these products—and others—requires the right valves. A valve supply needs to be adequate to handle different materials and conditions. Getting the right type of valve for your needs is a critical step in the process of making sure your production is maintained at a high level. The following things should be kept in mind during the process.

What the Valves are Made of

A valve can have the exact same size and shape of another valve and still not be right for your needs. There are some materials that interact poorly with the wrong type of valve, simply because of what the valve is made of. Keep in mind that gases and chemicals are going to be flowing through the valve and often at a fast rate. They may also be under significant pressure. These factors can serve to exacerbate the negative effects of having the wrong valve supply setup. A valve supply must not be made of a material that is going to interact with the materials flowing through them in a way that causes a bad reaction or ends up corrupting the end supply.

In addition, whether you are using gate valves, ball valves, pig valves, or another type, you want to be sure that the material the value supply is made of is not going to be easily corroded by what’s flowing through it. It is therefore imperative that you check the compatibility of the materials before placing an order. The performance numbers of the valve may be impressive and may even give you higher production rates, but those will be nullified by corrosion or material incompatibility.

Get the Right Size and Type of Valve

Your valve supply needs to be properly sized in order to maintain a smooth operation. The wrong size could mean anything from a bad fit to a sharp decrease in efficiency. Checking the proper fit and size may take time and effort. If you are dealing with equipment that you are not completely comfortable with, you will want to get help from someone with more experience. If no one with better experience is available, you should call the valve’s manufacturer to get assistance. Either way, choosing the right valve size and type is going to save you some serious headaches in the future, so it’s worth the extra time spent.

Check the Performance Requirements

How your valve supply performs is going to vary based on several factors. The way you use it is going to be guided by both what is flowing through and the production requirements of your company. These should be decided on first. Often, when a change in equipment is being considered, there are also changes in expected output. If your job is limited to that of a purchaser, you may want to tactfully ask to be present in the meetings that help decide on new performance objectives. This is because the information may be very helpful as you decide which valve supply to go with. Any high pressure valve is going to be subject to a number of stressful elements as it is used. The performance of the valve should be judged not just on how well materials flow through it, but on how well it holds up under the every day pressures of operation. Some of these may cause considerable friction resulting in corrosion, so the replacement of a valve supply should be factored in when judging its performance.

Choosing the right valves for a project is going to require balancing several factors. The composition of the valves is important because it can cause premature failure of a system a poor interaction with the product if not chosen carefully. The size and type of valve is equally important because these parameters will guide the fitting process as well as how it helps move your product. Finally, the performance of the valve has to support the end objectives of the company.

Are Your Valves Hurting Your Oil Productivity?

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 16:53:28 GMT

Did you know that oil consumption in 2012 was at 89 million barrels and is only expected to grow up to 109 million barrels by 2035? Most people know that oil is a booming industry but the numbers are truly staggering. As these numbers continue to grow, so must the efficient productivity within the production of oil.

Valve supply should be an imperative business operation for oil companies in order to ensure maximum growth in production and to keep up with the continuing growing demand. High pressure valves, pig valves, gate valves, and so many more are important details to keep an operation running smoothly.

The stakes couldn't be any higher for oil rigs and operations to perform at a high functioning level. Sixty percent of the energy in the United States comes from gas and oil. This means that malfunctioning high pressure valves could leave thousands of Americans literally in the dark.

Finding a high quality valve isn't always easy with tons of competition looking to tap into the lucrative oil and gas business. Researching a trusted company that's willing to look out for its clients and hold its valves to the highest standards is vital to the success of oil companies hoping to meet their own client needs. The last thing that oil companies should worry about is the possibility of broken high pressure valves and the right company will take that stress off your mind.

Over four billion metric tons of oil is produced globally every year. With people both nationwide and worldwide relying upon oil, finding a company looking to exceed industry standards is the best possible course of action. Not only is it important to find a company who makes an extremely high quality product but customer service should also be a consideration.

In the event that there is something that goes awry with a valve, whether it be new or old, the right company will provide quick and efficient service that will get it back up and running in no time at all. Productivity, assembly, testing, engineering, reliability, and efficiency are all imperative in ensuring a valve does not put the next city block over in the dark for the rest of the night.

Ball Valves: Different Types and Their Applications

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 19:21:29 GMT

There are more than 3,000 facilities in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) involved in collecting and producing oil and gas.

If you’re an oil or gas engineer, you know that ball valves are very essential components of piping systems. They are used for various purposes throughout the oil and gas industry. For upstream applications, they control the flow of oil. For the midstream, they protect equipment by controlling the flow of gas and oil. For the downstream, they are used for refining crude oil.

Because of their prevalence in the industry, it’s important for every engineer to be familiar with the various kinds of valves, or at least the most common ones.

American Ball Valve Components

The major components of a ball valve are the body, the ball itself, the steam, and the seats.

The ball valve may be soft-seated or metal-seated. It can be multidirectional, bidirectional, or unidirectional—this depends on how many valve ports and seats there are. This is the same for multiport plug valves.

American Ball Valve Applications and Advantages

Ball Valves can be used for different kinds of fluid services, as on/off stop-valves with bubble-tight shut off.
They are applicable in air, gaseous, and vapor systems, in addition to hydrocarbon systems.
They are useful for connecting instruments via instrument tubing.
Metal-seated ball valves are useful in both high-temperature and high-pressure applications.
Ball valves are easy to operate and cost-effective.
A multitude of types and configurations make it easy to find the right ball valve for your requirements.
Ball valves are more compact and lightweight than gate valves of the same rating and size.
Ball valves can be opened and closed very quickly, with bubble-tight sealing, even in high-pressure situations.

Listed below are some different kinds of American ball valve .

1. Three-Way Ball Valve

Depending on the situation, the ports of a three-way ball valve can be set to one of three ways:

One inlet, two distribute;

One inlet, one outlet, and one diverted flow; or

Straight pass (no inlet).

There are three different patterns available in an American ball valve: full port type, reduced port type, and Venturi port type.

The full port type has an internal diameter that’s equal to the internal diameter of the pipe. This allows for pigging. In reduced and Venturi port types, the port is usually a pipe size smaller than the size of the line.

The spherical ball inside the valve can be free-floating or fixed—these are referred to floating types and fixed types, respectively. A fixed type valve is sometimes called a mounted ball valve.

2. Floating Ball Valve

In a floating ball valve, the ball is held in place by two elastomeric seats. Between these seats, the ball is able to “float” inside the valve’s body.

The valve stem is connected to a slot in the top of the ball. This allows the ball to rotate one-quarter turn, or 90 degrees.

The valve shaft allows for a limited amount of lateral movement for the ball, which is generated from upstream pressure against the ball. This lateral movement, though small, drops a load upon the ball great enough to press the ball against the downstream seat. This improves tightness to avoid leaks.

This kind of ball valve is capable of bidirectional shutoff. However, a floating ball valve is hard to operate when the upstream pressure is very high. To combat this problem, the mounted ball valve is used instead.

3. Mounted Ball Valve

The mounted ball valve offers a solution to the problem created by excessive pressure placed on a floating ball valve.

In a mounted American ball valve, a short shaft, called a trunnion, is set in the body. In this design, the ball and steam work together as a single unit. Two floating or spring-loaded seats support the ball.

The mounted ball valve design requires a lower operating torque. This, in turn, reduces the size of the actuator—as well as the valve’s overall cost. This difference in cost is an important factor as valve size and pressure class increase.

4. Split-Body Ball Valve

In a split-body ball valve, the valve’s body is divided into halves or thirds. The ball, stem, seat rings, and other internal mechanisms are held together inside the body with bolting.

Taking A Look At The 2019 Valve World Americas Conference And Exhibition

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 19:09:17 GMT

Since 2011, leaders in the gas and oil industry have met at a conference to discuss new developments and changes in the field. The fifth biennial Valve World Americas Expo and Conference (organized by KCI Publishing Corporation and Messe Düsseldorf North America) will be held on June 19 and 20 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

This two-day expo is the premier valve event in America; companies from all over the world are invited to learn and interact as they drive innovation and excellence in the fields of valve manufacture, use, maintenance and more. By emphasizing practical and applicable knowledge sharing with subject matter experts and key opinion leaders in the valve community, attendees are able to grow and expand their own understanding and push for new discoveries.

Tiger Valve is proud to count itself among those industry leaders. Their vast selection of pig valves, gate valves, ball valve s, and high pressure valves has earned them a place in the massive exposition. Tiger Valve will be participating in the exhibition half of the conference, which brings together valve manufacturers, distributors, engineering firms and end users in an attempt to strengthen relationships, meet existing and new customers, and exchange ideas and opinions face-to-face.

Topics during the conference will include the industry supply chain, fugitive emissions, new technologies, the role of the chemical industry, testing and maintenance procedures, valve design, and will feature sessions in Spanish, as well. Let's take a look at the six key note speakers that will be presenting.

Meridith Elliot-Powell
Tim Goedeker, Phillips 66
John Bowhay, MRC Global
Mary Kelly, PhD, Commander, U.S. Navy
Kees Meliefste, Dow Chemical
Dave Plum, Emerson

The Expo has greatly expanded since its opening eight years ago; a total of 4,141 visitors experienced the event in 2017. With so many innovative players and big companies coming together to exchange ideas and information, this year's Valve World Americas Expo and Conference is sure to be a hit. If you're going to be in the Houston area on June 19 and 20, don't hesitate to stop by; Tiger Valve will be located at a booth, waiting to discuss ball valves and tubing hangers with you!

Exhibition Hours

Wednesday, June 19th from 9:00AM until 5:00PM
Thursday, June 20th from 9:00AM until 5:00PM

Conference Hours

Wednesday, June 19th from 8:30AM until 12:00PM
Thursday, June 20th from 8:30AM until 4:00PM

Five Facts About API Standards

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:30:57 GMT

The American Petroleum Institute (or API) is an oil and gas industry trade association that oversees standards in oil and gas production. For example, API 6A defines the industry standards for wellhead and Christmas tree equipment and API 6D defines the industry standards for pipeline valves. Most people within the oil and gas industry have seen the phrase "API 6A valve" and "API 6D valve," but many may be unaware of what the API standards cover. Here are five facts about the API standards:

API Standards are Used Internationally

The International Organization for Standardization (or ISO) issues technical standards throughout the world. In the case of oil and gas production, the ISO has adopted the standards set by the API. For example, API 6A was adopted as ISO 10423 and API 6D was adopted as ISO 14313. Thus, hydraulic gate valve s used in Saudi Arabia and the United States, the world’s leading oil producers each having 13% of the world's total oil production, will meet exactly the same technical standards.

API Standards Cover Specifications and Design of Valves

API standards cover everything about the design of a hydraulic gate valve, including the definition of "gate valve" as a "valve assembly with a gate operating within the body, 90 degrees to the conduit, to effect a closure." API 6A also covers the dimensions for a hydraulic gate valve, as well as the design of the threads, seats, and even the valve handwheel. For example, API 6A states that the handwheel must have spokes and must be replaceable while in service.

API Standards Cover the Manufacture of Valves

In addition to the design specifications, API standards also set specifications for the manufacture of hydraulic gate valves down to the hardness of the material used to make the valve and the chemical composition and dimensions of the welds. API 6A, for example, even specifies that welds must be made by qualified welders and records of the welders' performance qualification tests must be kept.

API Standards Cover the Quality Control, Testing, and Marking of Valves

API 6A also establishes standards for quality control to ensure that the manufacturing standards are met. These quality control standards specify the manner for measuring and testing products made in accordance with API 6A. Specifically, API 6A defines standards for the testing equipment, quality control personnel, and testing procedures. API 6A also specifies when and how repair welds and re-manufactured pieces can be incorporated into products covered by the standard. Aside from visual examination, API 6A also specifies when and how harness tests, tensile tests, impact tests, chemical analysis, visual inspection, and non-destructive tests, such as ultrasonic and radiographic tests, are conducted. For certain uses, such as natural gas production, pressure tests using nitrogen or other inert gasses may be conducted. The standards specify how records of the testing are maintained and how the products are marked to indicate both compliance with the standards and how the testing records may be traced for those products.

API Standards Vary Based on the Application

The API standards are not "one size fits all." In fact, API 6A specifies five product specification levels (or PSLs) for different applications. To assist the end user in selecting the PSL for the user's application, API 6A includes a flowchart in figure A.3 of annex A of the standard. Matching the right PSL to the right use is very important. For example, PSL 3G is specified for parts used in natural gas production and, as such, requires gas testing of parts, whereas other PSLs are not directed for natural gas production and, as such, usually do not require gas testing.

API 6A was written to ensure that oil and gas equipment is safe, reliable, and standardized. API standards cover everything from the design, materials, manufacture, testing, and marking of parts. In this manner, the end user can be assured that an API 6A hydraulic gate valve meets or exceeds the standards for quality and safety.

The Wonderful World Of Valves: 4 Types Of Ball Valves Explained

Mon, 20 May 2019 01:35:45 GMT

The gas and oil industry in the U.S. is alive and well; in 2017, this nation produced 571 million metric tons of oil and 734.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas. With such a thriving supply, gas stations across the country need a reliable way of distributing these materials. Ball valves are favored due to their ability to create a tight shutoff in both liquid and gas applications. Let's take a look at four different types of ball valves used by the oil and gas industry.

Trunnion Mounted Ball Valve: Trunnion mounted ball valves possess additional mechanical anchoring at the top and bottom of the ball, making it a suitable choice for larger and higher pressure valves. This design also allows for a reduction in valve torque because the ball is supported in two places. Even at full rated working pressure, operating torque remains low.
Floating Ball Valve: Floating ball valves are not held in place by a trunnion; they're only attached to the stem, This can cause the ball to float slightly downstream. When this happens, the ball presses against the seat, thereby creating a positive seal.
Rising Stem Ball Valve: These valves incorporate tilt-and-turn operation, which eliminates seal rubbing -- a primary cause of valve failure. When the valve is closed, the core becomes wedged against the seat, securing a positive shutoff; when open, the core tilts away from the seal and flow passes uniformly around the core face. This operating principle allows for fast, low-torque operation and long-term reliable performance.
Full-Port Ball Valve: Also known as full-bore ball valves, these valves have a bore internal diameter that is roughly equal to the pipeline internal diameter. This allows for reduced friction and pressure loss across the valve. There is no restriction to the flow of fluid, making full-port ball valves an ideal choice for situations where pigging may be necessary.

The right ball valve for your situation depends on your needs and your budget. While full-port valves can be more expensive, their versatility makes them a popular choice in the chemical, petrochemical, and refining industries.

Tiger Valve is a leading producer of ball valves and pig valves. If you have any questions about these products, give us a call at 281.227.9911 today.

What Does a Valve Supply Do?

Thu, 02 May 2019 19:52:56 GMT

Over half of the nation's energy is supplied by gas and oil with over four billion metric tons of oil produced worldwide on an annual basis. By 2035, daily global oil consumption is projected to reach 109 million barrels. To retrieve oil, there are a number of different valves useful for regulating the movement of oil from its reserves to industrial use.

A valve supply is a singular valve or a system of valves that control how oil or gas move through a pipeline. Different types of valves control different aspects of the pipeline, but in general, a valve supply system can start or stop fluids, modulate and control flows, change the direction of flows, manage pressure, monitor for safety hazards, and filter debris that could contaminate the line. The amount of control needed will determine the best valve of choice for the job.

What Kind of Valve Supply Systems are There?

1. Ball Valve: Ball valves are used as a high pressure valve typically serving as a complete shut-off valve. They can easily regulate flow and function by the use of a quarter turn lever movement and cease flow with a tight seal. A ball inside the high pressure valve has a hole inside that allows fluid to move through it when it aligns with the two sides of the device. When the lever is turned, the ball valve is shut-off, and the hole in the ball is concealed which prevents the oil from moving through the line. The amount the lever is turned directly indicates the amount the valve is open.

Shut-Off Pig Valve: This is another name for a trunnion block-mounted ball valve. It is a high pressure valve designed to withstand heavy loads placed on the ball while requiring little effort to manipulate. They are capable of heavy loads because the ball, shaft, and trunnion all function as one solid unit reinforcing one another. They are also more feasible to use because they accommodate many different size restraints.
Flanged Floating Ball Valves: These are similar to the pig valves, but instead of the ball transfixed as one unit, the shaft is only attached to the ball. The ball floats suspended in the fluid line. When the lever is engaged, the weight is applied on the ball and it gets pressed against two rubber seats cutting off the flow. This type of ball valve is useful only in low pressure situations and small volume loads.

2. Gate Valves: These are another type of shut-off valve, but do not function well as an option for a high pressure valve. They also function more as an all or nothing type of shut-off rather than allowing for minimal controlled reductions in flow. There are several different types and models of gate valves depending on the pressure, temperature, and fluid they are meant to control.