Valve terminology overlaps across manufacturers. Use the trade name to find the product, then use a drawing and a technical datasheet to identify what will actually be supplied.
Three descriptions, more than one construction
V-notch describes the shape of an edge or opening. V-ball is a common commercial term for a characterized rotary ball valve. Segmented ball describes the moving element as part of a sphere rather than a complete ball. A valve may fit all three descriptions, but a full ball with a machined V-port is a different physical arrangement from a segment valve.
Why procurement needs more precision
A request for a V-ball valve can produce offers with different body lengths, seat styles, flow directions and capacity curves. Even nominally equal sizes may have different rated Cv. The flange connection does not settle these differences. Put the desired construction, duty and performance criteria into the request rather than relying on a product name.
Use a specification that survives translation
Keep the manufacturer series code, DN or NPS, pressure designation and material grades unchanged across languages. Add the terms segmented ball and V-notch where appropriate, and attach a section drawing. If a supplier proposes another geometry, require a clear deviation statement and compare the control envelope, shut-off test and actuator sizing.
Practical checklist
- Moving element: full ball or segment?
- Connection: flanged or wafer, with the drawing reference?
- Seat: metallic or specified polymer?
- Flow: required direction and capacity curve?
Discuss your application
Send the process conditions and required valve function for a configuration review. Request a technical quotation ↗