In plumbing and industrial systems, a ball valve is one of the most common flow control devices—but it’s often called by other names depending on its design, function, or industry. The most widely used alternative term is “quarter-turn valve”—a nod to its signature operation (rotating the handle 90 degrees to fully open or close). Beyond that, specific types of ball valves have unique labels, such as “floating ball valve,” “trunnion ball valve,” or “full-port ball valve.” Let’s break down these terms, their differences, and why they matter for your project.
The Most Common Alternate Name: Quarter-Turn Valve
Nearly all ball valves earn the nickname “quarter-turn valve” because of how they work: inside the valve, a hollow metal ball (with a hole through the center) rotates 90 degrees when you turn the handle. This quick, ¼ rotation aligns the ball’s hole with the pipe (open) or blocks the flow (closed). Unlike gate valves (which require multiple turns) or globe valves (which throttle flow gradually), quarter-turn valves are prized for their speed and reliability—making them ideal for emergency shutoffs in water, gas, or oil systems.
Other Names for Ball Valves: Based on Design & Use
While “quarter-turn valve” is the most universal alias, engineers and technicians often refer to ball valves by their structural features or applications:
1. Floating Ball Valve
In this design, the ball is “floating”—held in place only by the valve seats (no fixed轴). When pressure increases, the ball presses against the downstream seat, creating a tight seal. Common in low-to-medium pressure systems (e.g., residential plumbing, small-scale chemical lines).
2. Trunnion Ball Valve
Here, the ball is anchored by two trunnions (metal shafts) at the top and bottom, preventing movement even under high pressure. Used in oil refineries, gas pipelines, or industrial settings where pressures exceed 1,000 psi.
3. Full-Port Ball Valve
A full-port (or “full-bore”) ball valve has a ball hole the same size as the pipe, minimizing flow restriction. Ideal for systems where unobstructed flow is critical—like fire sprinklers or slurry transport (e.g., mining operations moving gravel-laden water).
4. Reduced-Port Ball Valve
The ball hole is smaller than the pipe diameter, which lowers costs but creates minor pressure drop. Often used in non-critical applications like irrigation or HVAC systems.
Key Differences: Why the Names Matter
These aliases aren’t just jargon—they signal critical differences in performance:
| Term | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter-turn valve | 90-degree handle rotation | Any system needing fast on/off control (e.g., home water mains) |
| Floating ball valve | Seats seal via line pressure | Low-pressure systems (residential, small commercial) |
| Trunnion ball valve | Fixed ball for high pressure | Oil/gas pipelines, industrial plants |
| Full-port ball valve | Unrestricted flow | Fire protection, slurry transport |
Specialized Types: Sanitary & Stainless Steel Ball Valves
While not strict “alternate names,” two terms often linked to ball valves are sanitary ball valve and stainless steel ball valve—referring to materials or hygiene standards:
- Sanitary Ball Valve: Designed for food, pharmaceutical, or dairy industries. Features smooth, crevice-free interiors to prevent bacteria buildup, often with polished stainless steel surfaces and FDA-approved seals.
- Stainless Steel Ball Valve: Made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel (304 or 316 grade), ideal for saltwater, chemicals, or outdoor systems where rust is a risk (e.g., marine plumbing, pool filtration).
How to Choose the Right “Ball Valve” for Your Project
- For speed and simplicity: Ask for a “quarter-turn valve” (most hardware stores stock these).
- For high pressure: Specify a “trunnion ball valve.”
- For clean applications (e.g., brewing, medicine): Opt for a “sanitary ball valve.”
- For corrosive environments: Request a “stainless steel ball valve.”
Final Thoughts
Whether you call it a ball valve, quarter-turn valve, or trunnion valve, the core function remains the same: reliable flow control. Understanding these aliases helps you communicate clearly with suppliers, avoid choosing wrong parts, and ensure your system runs safely. For most homeowners and small businesses, a standard quarter-turn ball valve will do the job—but for specialized needs, don’t hesitate to specify “floating,” “full-port,” or “sanitary” to get the right fit.