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Ball valves are available in different designs, including Full Port, Reduced Port, and Standard Port configurations. Each type determines the internal bore size relative to the pipe size, affecting flow rates, pressure, and application suitability. Let’s break down these types and their differences.

Full Port Ball Valve

A Full Port (or Full Bore) ball valve has an internal bore diameter that matches the diameter of the connected pipe. This design ensures minimal flow restriction and maximum flow rate.

Key Features:

• Bore size equals the pipe size
• Provides minimal pressure drop
• Reduces turbulence in the flow

Pros:

• Ideal for applications requiring high flow rates
• Prevents pressure loss in the system
• Suitable for viscous fluids, slurries, or applications requiring pigging (cleaning pipelines)

Cons:

• Larger, heavier, and more expensive than other types

Best For:

• Systems where maintaining flow capacity is critical, such as industrial, chemical, or oil and gas pipelines.

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Standard/Reduced Port Ball Valve

A Standard or Reduced Port (or Reduced Bore) ball valve has a smaller internal bore than the pipe it connects to. The bore typically reduces by one pipe size, restricting the flow slightly and causing a pressure drop.

Key Features:

• Bore size is smaller than the pipe size
• Reduces flow capacity
• Compact and lightweight design

Pros:

• More cost-effective than full port valves
• Smaller and lighter, making it easier to install
• Suitable for applications where flow reduction is acceptable

Cons:

• Causes a pressure drop due to reduced flow area
• Not suitable for applications requiring full flow rates

Best For:

• Systems where flow capacity is less critical, such as water distribution and general-purpose industrial applications.

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Summary Table

Port Type	Bore Size	Pressure Drop	Cost	Best For
Full Port	Same as pipe size	Minimal	Higher	High flow applications, viscous fluids
Standard Port	Between full & reduced	Moderate	Moderate	Balanced cost and flow efficiency

Final Thoughts

The choice between Full Port, Reduced Port, and Standard Port ball valves depends on your system's flow requirements, pressure considerations, and budget. For applications requiring maximum flow with minimal restrictions, a Full Port valve is the best choice. If cost and space are concerns, Reduced Port or Standard Port valves offer reliable solutions while balancing performance and affordability. Understanding these differences ensures you select the right valve for optimal efficiency in your system.

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