The NP series from DI NICOLA INFINAM covers one of the widest size ranges available in a floating ball valve platform — from compact DN 25 (1 inch) process connections up to DN 1200 (48 inch) pipeline-class valves. This breadth, combined with fire-safe certification and an integrated anti-static device, makes it a valve specified across industries where safety and reliability in isolation service are non-negotiable: oil and gas, petrochemical processing, cryogenic storage, and marine/offshore installations.

How does a floating ball design provide tight shut-off across the full pressure range?

In a floating ball valve, the ball is not fixed to the stem but instead floats between the upstream and downstream seats. When the valve is closed and upstream pressure is applied, the ball is pushed firmly against the downstream seat, increasing the sealing force proportionally with line pressure. This self-energizing characteristic means the NP series achieves bubble-tight shut-off at both low and high pressures without requiring the complex spring-loaded seat assemblies of a trunnion-mounted design. For bi-directional applications, the double-block-and-bleed (DBB) configuration provides positive isolation verified by cavity venting.

What makes a ball valve fire-safe and when is this certification required?

A fire-safe ball valve is designed to maintain seal integrity during and after exposure to fire. When the primary soft seat (typically PTFE or reinforced PTFE) is destroyed by extreme heat, a secondary metal seat engages to provide emergency sealing, preventing uncontrolled release of flammable media that would feed the fire. The NP series fire-safe design conforms to API 6D and is tested per API 598 and EN 12266-1. This certification is mandatory for valves installed in refineries, chemical plants, offshore platforms, and any facility subject to major accident hazard regulations where valve failure during a fire event is an unacceptable risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What actuation options are available for the NP series?

The NP series supports manual lever or gearbox operation up to larger sizes, pneumatic double-acting or spring-return actuators for automated on/off control, electric actuators for remote operation, and hydraulic actuators for subsea or high-force applications. The ISO 5211-compliant mounting pad ensures interchangeability between actuator brands.

What is the difference between 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way configurations?

Standard NP series valves are 2-way for on/off isolation. 3-way configurations provide flow diversion or mixing between three ports — common in tank farm manifold systems and sampling stations. 4-way configurations offer additional flow path flexibility for complex process routing. All multi-port configurations retain the same fire-safe and anti-static design features as the standard 2-way valve.

What materials of construction are available?

Body materials include ASTM A216 WCB carbon steel (GP 240GH+N) for standard service, high-nickel stainless steel for corrosive media and low-temperature applications, and cast iron for general-purpose water and utility service. Trim materials and seat/seal combinations are selected based on media compatibility, temperature, and pressure cycling requirements.