Flanged vs. Threaded Valve Connections

George Packard

Vice President of Marketing

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With many different types of valve connections available, it’s important to choose the right one in order to connect your valves and pipes together to prevent leaks. When selecting the best valve connection type for your process components and piping systems, there are several different categories of valve connection types to consider.

Two of the most widely used valve connections are flanged and threaded, and each type serves a specific purpose depending on the application in which it is being used.

Read on to learn more about flanged vs threaded valve connections and which offers the best alternative for your specific application.

What Are Flanged Connections?

In piping systems, a flange is a projecting rim or collar on a pipe or pressure vessel used to create a sealable joint with another flange pipe or pressure vessel. Many types of flanged connections require welding or gasket bolting to hold the pipe fittings together. However, some other types of this ring-shaped device offer alternatives to welding and can be easily disassembled for shipping, routine inspection, maintenance and replacement.

Flanged valve connections are commonly used in applications with:

• Large pipe sizes
• High-pressure
• Jobs that call for high joint integrity

Some of the most common types of flanged valve connections include:

• Blind flange: used to close the end of a pipe or to close a pipeline to prevent leakage or flow
• Lap joint flange: used by slipping over a pipe, which enables it to swivel around the pipe and facilitate the lining up of opposing flange bolt holes
• Slip on flange: used frequently in the pipes, valves and fittings (PVF) industry and connects via two filet welds
• Socket weld flange: used by attaching a socket weld joint to the pipe
• Threaded flange: used frequently in smaller piping systems and includes a threaded connection inside the flange bore, which does not require welding
• Weld neck flange: used to prevent turbulence and increase flow by precisely matching the inside diameter of the pipe

Flanges can be made from standard materials such as stainless steel and carbon steel or from more specialized materials designed for specific jobs. Flanged connection subtypes include:

• Flat face
• Raised face
• Ring joint face
• Tongue and groove
• Male & female

Flanged valve connections can deliver many benefits when used appropriately. For example, flanged connections:

• Allow piping spools to be assembled without welding
• Can be manufactured in many different piping spool formats
• Do not require painting/blasting

Although flanged connections can be advantageous when used under the right circumstances, they may also present some limitations. For example, flanged valve connections:

• Are expensive when used to insulate flanged pipes
• Require more space
• Are more prone to leaks

What are Threaded Connections?

Unlike flanged connections, which utilize multiple parts to fit piping components together, threaded connections are fitted with matching grooves (one set of grooves on the outside and the other on the inside).

Threaded connections are considered one of the oldest forms of joint connections, and they are still very popular today, as they allow for a more compact and efficient connection between pipe and valve.

Most threaded valve connections include a female threaded end connection that easily connects to a male threaded pipe. However, some of these devices are fitted with male threaded connections as well. Some even include both male and female threaded connections on either end.

Threaded valve connections are commonly used in a wide variety of applications and are particularly popular in applications with smaller pipe sizes (3” and under).:

Some of the most common types of threaded valve connections include:

• NPT: National pipe thread tapered, the US standard for tapered threads used in pipes and fittings, which pulls tight to make a fluid-tight seal.
• NPS: National pipe straight, a standard for straight (non-tapered) threads used in pipes and fittings that, similar to BSPP, requires a gasket or sealant to ensure a fluid-tight connection.
• BSPT: British standard pipe taper threads that include tapered threaded connections and a 55-degree angle of the thread flanks, which does not allow for a fluid-tight seal.
• BSPP: British standard pipeline threads, which do not create a fluid-tight seal on its own but rather pull together two threaded mating parts.

Threaded valve connections are typically available in two subtypes:

• Male vs. female
• Straight vs. tapered

There are several advantages to using this type of valve connection. Threaded valve connections:

• Are quick to install
• Are suitable for low-medium pressure applications and certain high-pressure applications
• Generally require less space than flanged connections
• Are relatively inexpensive

While they can be the right choice in certain applications, threaded valve connections may have some drawbacks. A few notable disadvantages are that threaded valves:

• Are not usable in very high temperature or very high-pressure applications
• Are not as easy to disassemble and service as flanged connections
• May be less foolproof to install as they can be over or under-tightened during installation or maintenance

What is the Price Difference Between Flanged and Threaded Connections?

When it comes to cost, threaded valve connections generally cost substantially less than flanged valve connections. The difference in cost between the two connection types is due to the multiple parts and various structures of flanges. However, despite the cost-savings associated with threaded valve connections, they offer less operational flexibility and are primarily only useful in low-pressure piping systems.

Ready to get started on your next utility project? Check out our guide to Valve Actuators to make sure you’re on the right track.

George Packard

Vice President of Marketing

George Packard, Vice President of Marketing at Gemini Valve, has been involved in Technical Sales and Marketing in the valve industry for over 10 years. George’s varied experience includes communicating with clients to troubleshoot critical applications, and working alongside top engineers in the industry to promote the latest innovations in automated ball valve design.

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A comprehensive introduction to valve actuators, covering power sources, failsafes, questions to ask and more.

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Want to learn more about ball valves? You’re in the right place! These handy gadgets are essential in plumbing systems for managing the flow of water, gas, and other fluids.

Ball valves are used in various applications due to their simple design and dependable performance. We’ll examine how they function, the many varieties available, and why they might be the ideal option for your plumbing problems. So, let’s get started and learn all about them. 

How does a ball valve work?

Ball valves employ a hollow ball to regulate the flow of liquids or gases. When the valve is open, the hole in the ball allows fluid to flow through. When it is closed, the flow ceases altogether. A spindle is used to turn the ball, which is fitted into a slot. The spindle is controlled by a lever that opens and shuts the valve.

The spindle is inside the valve body neck and contains many seals to prevent leakage. Furthermore, the ball is maintained in position by two chairs on either side. These seats have a tight seal, so nothing spills out.

Types of Ball Valves 

Automatic ball valves

Some valves can be operated with an electric or pneumatic actuator rather than a handle. These actuators connect directly to the valve stem and rotate it a quarter turn. The ISO standard flange connection is the most often used method for connecting an actuator to a valve.

With an actuator, you may operate your ball valve remotely or with a controller, allowing the valve to function as an automated shut-off. A spring-actuated ball valve, also known as a spring-loaded or spring return ball valve, opens or closes the valve without electricity.

The actuator then maintains the valve’s open or closed position. These types of valves are useful for saving energy and safety reasons. You can get these from every ball valve manufacturer. 

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Want more information on Flange Ball Valve? Feel free to contact us.

Brass Ball Valves 

Brass is the most common material for valves. It is a copper-zinc alloy with good mechanical qualities. Brass valves are used for various applications, including drinking water, gas, oil, air, and other liquids. 

However, chloride solutions such as saltwater or demineralized water can induce a condition known as dezincification. This is a kind of corrosion in which zinc is lost from the alloy, leaving the brass weak and porous. Despite this, brass is ideal for air ball valves and plumbing ball valves.

Stainless Steel Ball Valves

Stainless steel is ideal for use in corrosive and severe conditions. This makes it an excellent solution for saltwater, swimming pools, osmosis systems, high temperatures, and various chemicals.

 Most stainless steel is austenitic, with the most common types being 304 and 316. Type 316 provides the highest corrosion resistance, whereas Type 304, sometimes known as 18/8, has 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Type 316 has 18% chromium and 10% nickel, also known as 18/10.

One thing to know is that stainless steel valves often require more power than brass or PVC valves. This is critical when operating a stainless steel valve with an electric or pneumatic actuator.

PVC Ball Valves 

PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride, is often cheaper than other materials (except for ISO-top valves) and is widely used in irrigation, water supply, drainage, and corrosive substances. 

PVC resists most salt solutions, acids, bases, and organic solvents. However, it’s unsuitable for temperatures above 60 °C and can’t handle aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. PVC isn’t as strong as brass or stainless steel, so PVC ball valves have a lower pressure rating.

High-Pressure Ball Valves 

High-pressure ball valves are designed to withstand extremely high fluid pressures, often about 500-700 bars. When the valve is larger, it can tolerate less pressure, and vice versa. These valves are highly durable and are utilized in pipe systems with uniformly high pressure. If it is a manual valve, turn the lever 90 degrees to make it work. However, if it is motorized, it will activate with an electric signal.

These valves are manufactured from materials like carbon steel and stainless steel 316. Or more durable materials, such as Duplex, for pieces like the stem, ball, and seat rings. This allows the valve to handle high pressure and the maximum torque the actuator can provide.

High-pressure ball valves are available in the following connection types:

1. National pipe thread (NPT) threaded
2. Compression type (DIN /ISO -1)
3. Welding end
4. British standard pipe parallel (BSPP) threaded

What’s the difference between 1, 3, and 3-piece Ball Valves?

One-piece Ball Valve

As they are made of a single piece of material, one-piece ball valves are extremely durable and have a low leak rate. However, they have a lower port size due to design than the inner diameter of the pipe they connect to.

As a result, there may be a little slowdown in the flow and a dip in pressure. Replacing them requires removing the entire valve, which may be a pain.

Furthermore, it costs less to manufacture these valves. Therefore, replacing them completely is always an option rather than attempting to fix them. 

Pros of One-piece Ball Valves 

• Inexpensive 
• Less chances of leakage 

Cons of One-piece Ball Valves 

• Smaller port size results in lower pressure
• Repairing can be tricky

Two-piece Ball Valve

Two-piece ball valves consist of two components linked together using bolts or threaded connections. Typically, one part comprises the body and one end connection, while the other holds the trim to the valve and includes the second end connection. This setting enables two-piece ball valves to have port sizes that match the connecting pipes. When this occurs, they are known as full port valves.

Because full port valves provide no pressure loss, they can withstand significantly larger flow rates.

Additionally, two-piece valves are designed to bear pressure from both sides, making them ideal for stopping fluid flow in both directions, a process known as bidirectional flow shutdown. 

Moreover, two-piece ball valves are often the most cost-effective option among full port valves. 

Pros of Two-piece Ball Valves

• Full port size results in a higher pressure 
• Relatively cheaper as compared to other full port options

Cons of Two-piece Ball Valves 

• The whole assembly needs to be removed to repair 
• More expensive than one-piece valves 

Three-piece Ball Valve

Three-piece ball valves are a trio of parts: two end caps and a body. Unlike the other types, you can separate the body from the end caps. This makes them super easy to clean and service whenever needed. Well, these valves are the best for cleaning things up very often.

They’re pretty popular in places like the pharmaceutical and food/beverage industries, where cleanliness is a top priority. While they might cost a bit more upfront, they’re totally worth it. Why? Because they come with added functions that are absolute must-haves for specific jobs. So, think of them as the superheroes of valves – a bit pricier, but totally worth the extra dough when you need their special powers.

Pros of Three-piece Ball Valve

• Easier maintenance and upkeep 
• Long-lasting with regular maintenance

Cons of Three-piece Ball Valve

• Most expensive of all 

Connection types for ball valves.

Standard

Standard ball valves are pretty straightforward. They have a ball, seats, a housing, and a lever to spin the ball. Additionally, they have two, three, or four ports in varying sizes, which might combine male and female threading. Many ball valve manufacturers offer this type of valve.

Flanged 

Flanged ball valves are a bit fancier. They hook up to your pipes using flanges designed according to a standard. Their full-bore design allows them to provide you with a high flow rate.

Ball valves are, therefore, suitable for any plumbing task, regardless of whether you choose the traditional threaded design or flanged valves.  

Socket Weld Ball Valves

Socket weld ball valves are a specialized type of ball valve designed for high-pressure applications and permanent pipe connections. Unlike standard or flanged ball valves, socket weld ball valves use a socket weld connection, where the pipe is inserted into a recessed area at the end of the valve. This design ensures a robust, leak-proof joint, ideal for systems with common high-pressure and temperature variations.

For more 2 Piece Threaded Ball Valveinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

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