Pig ball valves
Efficient cleaning with maximum safety and a compact design
Pig ball valves from Hartmann Valves are the compact and safe solution for cleaning and inspecting pipelines. They combine the function of a shut-off valve with an integrated scraper insertion and retrieval station in one system.
The laterally integrated lock chamber with bayonet closure with bayonet catch enables quick, easy and safe handling—even with residual pressure present. Compared with conventional pigging systems, the integrated design significantly reduces space requirements, costs and complexity.
Pig ball valve in the standard version
Pig ball valve with multiple safety barriers
Reliable shut-off
Our metal-to-metal sealing system
Metal-to-metal sealing ball valves are designed for applications where soft-seated systems reach their limits. They are used wherever demanding media, extreme pressures and temperatures, or vhigh cycle operations require permanently reliable shut-off. The gas-tight sealing system meets leak rate A and ensures permanently reliable shut-off.
The tightness of our valves is verified as part of technical tests in accordance with the relevant regulations and is carried out in line with the applicable product standard. Our internal manufacturer standard exceeds the requirements of common test standards such as API 598 and DIN 12266. This provides a robust basis for very high shut-off tightness in demanding applications. The internal definition of leak rate A is based on DIN ISO 5208.
The metal-to-metal sealing between the ball and seat ring ensures high wear resistance, minimized maintenance requirements and a long service life.
Compact solution for safe and efficient pipeline cleaning
Pig ball valve in the standard version
Hartmann pig ball valves in the standard version are specifically designed for cleaning and operating pipelines and combine a shut-off valve and pigging station in a compact solution.
Scraper insertion and retrieval is carried out via an integrated lock with bayonet catch: after closing the valve and controlled depressurization of the housing interior, the pig can be safely inserted or removed. As standard, the valves are designed for scraper lengths up to 1.4 x DN; special solutions up to 2.0 x DN are possible. A 3-stage, redundant safety concept and the metal-to-metal sealing design ensure high operational safety and system availability.
Temperature
-45°C to +120°C
Pressure
up to 250 bar
Nominal sizes
DN 50 – DN 600 (2“ – 24“)
PED 2014/68/EU and API 6D: DN 50 – DN 600 (2“ – 24“) up to PN 250 (ANSI 1500) further nominal sizes and pressure ratings on request!
On request, we manufacture and supply the ball valves of the AST series:
- made from special materials for extreme applications
- soft-seated
- with special internal or external coatings
- with removable pig catcher grid
- with special gearbox for 180° actuation range
- as a custom design for your specific application
- with integrated bypass (flow in the pipeline direction even when the valve is closed)
- in a design for separating different media
Maximum safety in pigging processes
Pig ball valve with multiple safety barriers
The pig ball valve with multiple safety barriers was developed specifically for applications where handling pigs while residual pressure is present is required. At least two additional seat rings separately secure the lock chamber and it is continuously monitored via a pressure gauge.
Even if the first barrier leaks, the second barrier sealing the lock chamber remains effective, so opening and closing is still safe. This redundant protection significantly increases operational safety and makes it possible to replace complex external pigging systems.
In addition, the pig ball valve can be designed as a multifunction valve:
Installation components integrated in the ball, such as sieve basket filters, pig catcher grids, check valves or control discs, are removable and replaceable. This allows additional functions such as filtration, backflow protection, flow control or the temporary insertion and removal of measuring equipment to be implemented directly in the valve—even with residual pressure present.
The result is a highly flexible, space-saving and safe solution that enables a wide range of applications beyond pure pipeline cleaning. Also suitable for hydrogen on request.
Temperature
-45°C to +120°C
Pressure
up to 250 bar
Nominal sizes
DN 50 – DN 600 (2“ – 24“)
PED 2014/68/EU and API 6D: DN 50 – DN 600 (2“ – 24“) up to PN 250 (ANSI 1500) further nominal sizes and pressure ratings on request!
On request, we manufacture and supply the ball valves of the AST series:
- made from special materials for extreme applications
- soft-seated
- with special internal or external coatings
- with removable pig catcher grid
- with special gearbox for 180° actuation range
- as a custom design for your specific application
Contact us
We support you in all project phases: from planning and design through manufacturing to installation and regular inspection.
FAQ
How does a pig ball valve work?
A pig ball valve combines shut-off and cleaning functions. An integrated lock allows scrapers to be safely inserted or removed—even with residual pressure present.
What is the advantage over conventional pigging systems?
The pig ball valve replaces separate pig traps. This significantly reduces space requirements, costs and maintenance effort, while increasing safety at the same time.
Which media can be handled?
Typical media include crude oil, natural gas, water, hydrogen, kerosene and sludge, as well as other pipeline media.
What does multiple safety barrier mean?
Multiple sealing levels ensure that safe sealing is still guaranteed even if one barrier leaks—also under residual pressure.
Are pig ball valves low-maintenance?
Yes, thanks to the metal-seated design and robust construction, they are low-maintenance and durable, even under demanding operating conditions.