Advantages of Using the Silica Sol Process for Ball Valves

Advantages of Using the Silica Sol Process for Ball Valves

1. High Dimensional Accuracy and Stability

The silica sol investment casting process offers excellent precision:

• Dimensional tolerances can reach CT4–CT6, which is much higher than water glass casting.

• Ensures accurate sealing surfaces and internal passages, improving sealing performance and service life of the ball valve.

2. Superior Surface Finish With Minimal Machining

• Surface roughness can reach Ra 1.6–3.2 μm.

• Significantly reduces machining requirements and helps maintain the integrity of the part.

3. Excellent Material Quality and Dense Structure

• Silica sol shell molds have strong and uniform properties, reducing casting defects such as slag inclusion or porosity.

• Produces dense, high-quality castings that improve pressure resistance and corrosion resistance.

4. Suitable for Complex and Thin-Wall Structures

• Capable of producing intricate geometries and fine details required in ball valve components.

• Thin-wall sections form easily and maintain good dimensional stability.

5. Ideal for Stainless Steel and High-Alloy Materials

The process is especially effective for:

• Stainless steels (304, 316, CF8, CF8M, etc.)

• High-temperature and corrosion-resistant alloys
  Ensuring excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties for valve components.

6. High Consistency and Suitable for Mass Production

• Stable and repeatable process ensures minimal variation between batches.

• Enhances product consistency for key ball valve parts such as valve bodies and balls.

7. High Overall Quality and Attractive Appearance

• Produces smooth, clean surfaces with very few defects.

• Improves the appearance and perceived quality of the final ball valve product.