The STAUFF TBV-4-G04-0001-M belongs to the TBV family of 4-way high-pressure block ball valves, purpose-built for hydraulic selector and diverter functions in circuits operating at up to 500 bar (7,250 PSI). The DN6 nominal bore with 1/4" BSP threaded ports makes it a compact solution for mobile hydraulics, test benches, and industrial hydraulic power units where space is tight but pressure demands are extreme. At 1.665 kg, the zinc/iron-plated mild steel body balances weight against structural integrity for trunnion-style ball support under full rated pressure.

Why a trunnion ball for high-pressure hydraulics?

In a floating ball valve, line pressure pushes the ball against the downstream seat — a design that works well at moderate pressures but creates excessive seat loading and operating torque above 300–400 bar. A trunnion-mounted ball is supported by a stem at the top and a trunnion bearing at the bottom, fixing the ball in position regardless of line pressure. The seats are spring-energized and pressure-assisted, maintaining consistent sealing force without torque escalation. This makes the TBV-4 lever-operable by hand even at its full 500 bar rating, where a floating ball of equivalent size would require a gearbox or actuator. The positive-overlap design ensures no momentary cross-port connection during the 90° shift, preventing pressure spikes in the hydraulic circuit.

T-bore vs. X-bore — selector configurations at a glance

STAUFF offers the TBV-4 with two ball bore patterns to cover different hydraulic selector needs. An X-bore (cross-drilled) ball connects the pressure port to one of two outlet ports while blocking the other — a 3-way selector function from a 4-way valve body, with the unused port plugged or used as a gauge connection. A T-bore ball routes flow from a common inlet to either of two outlets, suitable for diverting flow between two branches of a hydraulic circuit. Both configurations operate on a 90° lever throw, and the handle position gives the operator direct visual confirmation of flow direction — critical in manual hydraulic selector applications where mispositioning can deadhead a pump or pressurize a disconnected line.