API Handle Type Threaded End 3-PC Split Body A105N Forged Steel Ball Valves

General Description

The API Handle Type Threaded End 3-PC Split Body A105N Forged Steel Ball Valve is a manually operated quarter-turn shut-off valve, designed with a focus on reliability, serviceability, and mechanical strength. This valve features a modular three-piece construction and threaded end connections, making it ideal for systems that require frequent maintenance or quick installation. It meets relevant API and ASME design and testing standards and is manufactured using high-strength forged steel for exceptional performance under pressure.

Body Structure and Design

The valve features a three-piece split body construction, consisting of two end caps and a central body section. This design enables in-line servicing and easy access to internal components, allowing for routine maintenance and part replacement without the need to disconnect the valve from the pipeline. The split body is fastened with high-tensile bolts, ensuring structural integrity under pressure. Forged construction significantly enhances the mechanical properties of the valve. Compared to cast steel, forged steel has a more uniform grain structure and superior strength, making it more resistant to thermal fatigue, mechanical stress, and impact. The compact body design reduces the risk of leakage while providing consistent flow performance.

Materials of Construction

Body and End Caps: ASTM A105N forged carbon steel is used for the valve body and end pieces. This material offers excellent strength, pressure tolerance, and machinability, and is widely accepted for use in pressure-bearing equipment.

Ball: The internal ball is made from stainless steel (typically SS304 or SS316) or chrome-plated carbon steel for corrosion resistance and reduced friction. The ball surface is finely machined and polished to ensure tight sealing and smooth operation.

Stem: The stem is made of stainless steel with anti-blowout design to enhance safety. It is inserted from inside the body and retained to prevent ejection under internal pressure.

Seats and Seals: Standard seats are made of PTFE (Teflon), known for its chemical resistance and low friction. Alternative seat materials such as RPTFE or PEEK are available for more demanding operating conditions.

Gaskets: Soft or spiral-wound graphite gaskets are used between the body sections for reliable sealing under thermal and pressure cycling.

Ball and Sealing Mechanism

The valve employs a floating ball design, where the ball is not rigidly fixed but held in place by compression from the seats. This design allows the ball to shift slightly under pressure, pushing against the downstream seat to form a tight, bubble-proof seal. This mechanism ensures effective sealing at both low and high pressures. The valve is bi-directional, meaning it can control flow in either direction. The sealing surfaces between the ball and seats are engineered to provide long-lasting, leak-tight operation. The full port (full bore) design ensures that the internal bore of the valve is equal to the inner diameter of the connecting pipe, reducing flow resistance and minimizing pressure drop.

End Connections

This model is equipped with threaded end connections, compatible with either NPT (National Pipe Thread) or BSPT (British Standard Pipe Taper) standards. The threads are precisely machined to ensure accurate fit, secure assembly, and leak-free performance. Threaded ends are particularly beneficial for installations that require flexibility, rapid replacement, or non-welded pipe systems.

Handle and Operation

The valve is operated manually via a lever handle, providing a simple and intuitive quarter-turn (90-degree) action to open or close the valve. The handle is constructed from carbon steel and coated for corrosion resistance. A plastic or rubber grip is often added to enhance user comfort and prevent heat transfer during high-temperature service.

A locking mechanism is integrated into the handle to prevent accidental or unauthorized operation. This is a crucial feature in systems where safety or operational control is critical. The open or closed position of the valve can be easily verified by the position of the handle.

Stem Design and Safety Features

The valve stem includes a blowout-proof design, meaning it is assembled from the inside of the body and secured against being forced out by internal pressure. This feature improves operator safety during high-pressure operation or maintenance.

The stem is sealed using a combination of O-rings and packing rings to prevent external leakage. The packing gland can be adjusted as needed to maintain sealing integrity during long-term use.

Pressure and Temperature Ratings

The valve is suitable for a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions, typically conforming to pressure class ratings such as Class 800, Class 1500, or customized as needed. Standard PTFE seats offer temperature resistance from -29°C to 180°C, while upgraded materials like PEEK or graphite can extend the range for high-temperature service.

Hydrostatic testing and seat leakage testing are conducted in compliance with API 598 standards, ensuring the valve meets industry expectations for performance and safety.

Application Fields of the API Handle Type Threaded End 3-PC Split Body A105N Forged Steel Ball Valve

The API Handle Type Threaded End 3-PC Split Body A105N Forged Steel Ball Valve is widely used across various industries due to its high durability, compact design, and exceptional sealing capabilities. Its forged steel construction and threaded end connections make it particularly suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature, and critical service conditions. This valve is favored in sectors that require reliable shutoff, minimal maintenance, and operational safety.

Oil and Gas Industry

This valve is commonly applied in upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas operations. In upstream production, it is used for wellhead connections, flowlines, and test manifolds. In midstream, it is found in pipelines, compressor stations, and terminals. In refineries and petrochemical plants, the valve ensures safe and efficient fluid control for hydrocarbon processing, where pressure containment and leak-proof operation are essential.

Chemical and Petrochemical Industry

In chemical processing facilities, this valve is used to isolate, control, and direct the flow of aggressive or hazardous chemicals. Its corrosion-resistant seat materials (such as PTFE or PEEK) allow it to handle a wide range of media, including acids, solvents, and gases. The compact threaded-end design is especially valuable in confined areas or skidded units.

Power Generation

Power plants, including fossil fuel and combined-cycle power stations, use these valves in high-pressure steam lines, boiler systems, cooling circuits, and fuel supply lines. The forged steel body can withstand elevated temperatures and pressures, ensuring long service life in demanding environments.

Marine and Offshore Applications

On offshore platforms and ships, this valve is installed in systems handling fuel, seawater, fire suppression, and hydraulic fluids. Its robust design resists vibration, corrosion, and thermal cycling, which are common in marine conditions. The 3-piece construction also simplifies maintenance in remote or offshore locations.

Industrial Utilities and Equipment

The valve is used in compressed air systems, thermal oil circuits, gas distribution lines, and utility piping in manufacturing facilities. Its threaded connection allows for fast integration into existing systems without welding, while the lockable handle provides safety in workplace environments.

HVAC and Building Systems

In heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, the valve controls water, steam, or chilled water flow in heating loops and cooling networks. It is also used in commercial buildings and infrastructure for fluid isolation in maintenance and emergency shutdowns.

In summary, the API Handle Type Threaded End 3-PC Split Body A105N Forged Steel Ball Valve is a versatile solution trusted across multiple industries that demand strong, leak-free, and maintenance-friendly fluid control. Its proven performance in both standard and harsh environments makes it a vital component in modern process systems.