Product Overview 

Side entry ball valves are high-performance flow control devices where the ball and internal components are assembled from the side of the valve body. This innovative design utilizes a two-piece or three-piece bolted construction, offering exceptional reliability and convenient maintenance. The valve is operated via a quarter-turn mechanism, rotating the ball 90 degrees to open or close the flow path, resulting in fast operation and a tight seal.

Structural Excellence

The side entry design utilizes a trunnion-mounted ball supported by precision bearings, which absorbs the thrust generated by pipeline pressure, significantly reducing operating torque. The floating seat features a spring-loaded design, ensuring continuous contact with the ball surface and providing reliable sealing even under low-pressure conditions. When fully open, the valve offers a straight-through flow path, minimizing pressure drop and energy loss.

Material Versatility 

These valves are manufactured from high-quality materials, including carbon steel (A105), stainless steel (F304/F316), duplex stainless steel, and special alloys, and are designed to withstand harsh operating environments. The valve balls are typically coated with electroless nickel plating (ENP) or other special coatings to enhance wear resistance and corrosion resistance.

Advanced Sealing Technology 

This valve features a double block and bleed (DBB) function, providing redundant sealing protection. Its fire-safe design complies with API 607 standards, ensuring continued operation in fire emergencies. An emergency sealant injection port allows for quick sealing without system shutdown, while the anti-static and anti-blowout stem design further enhances operational safety.

Side Entry vs. Top Entry Ball Valve: Key Differences

Structural Design

Side Entry Ball Valves: These valves feature a two-piece or three-piece bolted body construction with the ball installed from the side. This design simplifies manufacturing and assembly, making them more cost-effective in standard applications. Their compact form factor makes them ideal for installations where space is limited.

Top Entry Ball Valves: This valve features a one-piece body design and is equipped with a removable top cover. This design allows for in-line maintenance without removing the valve from the pipeline, significantly reducing downtime and maintenance costs. The one-piece body structure offers superior structural integrity and higher pressure resistance.

Maintenance Approach 

The most significant difference between the two lies in ease of maintenance. Side entry ball valves require complete removal from the pipeline for internal maintenance, which is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. In contrast, top entry ball valves only require the removal of the top cover for in-line maintenance, making them ideal for critical applications where downtime is unacceptable.

Pressure and Temperature Capability 

Due to their robust, one-piece construction, top entry ball valves typically have higher pressure ratings (up to Class 2500) and a wider temperature range (-196°C to +550°C). Side entry ball valves are generally suitable for Class 150 to Class 900 applications, with a temperature range of -46°C to +200°C.

Cost Considerations 

Due to simpler manufacturing processes and lower material costs, side entry ball valves are more economical in standard applications. Top entry ball valves, on the other hand, are more expensive due to their advanced design, superior performance characteristics, and in-line maintenance capabilities.