Hi!

I got a newbie question here, is it possible for a ball valve to close at counterclockwise direction? I'm aware that the normal closing action is clockwise though and that the lever can be adjusted at the field. Any reply is highly appreciated. Thanks.

Abram

It would help if we knew the background behind your question.
Such as:

- Why are you asking this specific question?
- What is the size of this specific Ball Valve?
- What is the piping configuration of the piping that includes this Ball Valve?
- Is this Ball Valve the type that requires the upstream shut-off pressure to make it leak proof?
- Is this Ball Valve in a high pressure service ?

This question just sprung out of curiousity because I have a checker who asked to me to reroute my line which is located on quite a tight spot because of the ball valve. He told me that all ball valves open clockwise. I looked at the ball valve catalogue, and it looks to me at least, that the lever can be adjusted to close counterclockwise. The size is D80 150# RF ball valve and the line is a low pressure steam line, I guess there's nothing special about the line. Thanks.

Abram

Abram,
The "Ball Valve" is a member of what is called the "Quarter Turn" family of valves (Ball, Plug, Butterfly etc.).

For "handle" operated 1/4 turn valves you move the handle 1/4 turn in one direction to open the valve and then 1/4 turn in the opposite direction to close the valve.

So, no matter what your checker says, unless you remove the "1/4 turn stops" on one of these valves (or buy a really cheap knock-off that does not meet the proper valve Standards) you will always have some clock-wise and some counter clock-wise operation.