Womic Steel offering high quality & competitive prices of cryogenic ball valve, -196℃ low temperature ball valve, LNG ball valve, fire-safe cryogenic ball valve. Mill certificate EN 10204 3.1/3.2, hydro test, cryogenic performance test, deep cryogenic treatment, low fugitive emission design, fire-safe design, anti-static, blow-out proof stem, extended bonnet with drip plate. Factory direct supply for LNG and cryogenic industrial projects worldwide.
1. Womic Steel: Manufacturing Capabilities & Company Strength
Womic Steel Group is a premier manufacturer and global supplier of cryogenic valves with over 20 years of expertise in producing high-performance valves for extreme low-temperature services. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility integrates forging, machining, assembly, and testing capabilities:
l Cryogenic Valve Production Line: Dedicated cryogenic valve manufacturing line with CNC machining centers, vertical lathes, and specialized cryogenic testing equipment capable of testing valves down to -196°C using liquid nitrogen. Annual production capacity exceeding 20,000 cryogenic ball valves.
l Deep Cryogenic Treatment Facility: In-house cryogenic treatment furnace (-196°C) for stress relief of all pressure-containing parts, ensuring dimensional stability and preventing distortion at service temperatures. Parts are soaked for minimum 8 hours per BS 6364 requirements.
All cryogenic ball valves are designed with:
l Extended bonnet with drip plate to maintain stem packing at operable temperatures
l Anti-static grounding device per API 608 and BS 5351
l Blow-out proof stem design
l Fire-safe design per API 607 / ISO 10497
l Low fugitive emission packing meeting ISO 15848-1 (Class A or B)
l Double block and bleed capability (optional)
l Cavity pressure relief (trunnion-mounted valves)
Quality Certifications & Regulatory Compliance:
l ISO 9001:2015 Certified
l PED 2014/68/EU (CE Marking) for pressure equipment
l API 6D / API 608 Monogram License
l API 607 / API 6FA Fire-safe Certification
l ISO 15848-1 Low Fugitive Emission Certification
l EN 10204 3.2 Certification with third-party validation (TÜV, BV, SGS, LR)
l Third-Party Inspection (TPI) approved by SGS, BV, ABS, DNV, TÜV, Lloyd's Register
l NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 compliance for sour service cryogenic applications
l ATEX certification available upon request for explosive atmospheres
Production Flexibility for Cryogenic Ball Valves:
l Floating Ball: 1/2" – 8" (DN15 – DN200), Class 150 – Class 1500
l Trunnion-mounted Ball: 2" – 48" (DN50 – DN1200), Class 150 – Class 2500
l End Connections: Flanged (RF, RTJ), Butt Weld (BW), Socket Weld (SW), Threaded (NPT)
l Actuation: Manual (lever, gear), Pneumatic, Electric, Hydraulic
l Monthly production capacity: 1,500-2,000 units depending on size and complexity
Global Recognition: Womic Steel is a trusted supplier to global EPC contractors and LNG operators including Technip Energies, McDermott, Bechtel, and Sinopec, serving over 40 countries across LNG, petrochemical, and industrial gas sectors.
2. Cryogenic Ball Valve: Material Composition & Key Specifications
Cryogenic ball valves operate at temperatures as low as -196°C, where standard materials become brittle and standard sealing systems fail due to thermal contraction. Our cryogenic ball valves are specifically engineered for these extreme conditions.
Key Design Features for -196°C Service:
Extended Bonnet with Drip Plate: The bonnet is extended to ensure the packing area (stem seals) stays at a temperature above freezing, preventing ice formation and maintaining seal integrity. The drip plate prevents condensed moisture from dripping onto the insulation or valve body.
Deep Cryogenic Treatment: All pressure-containing parts (body, bonnet, ball, stem) are subjected to deep cryogenic treatment at -196°C for minimum 8 hours (or multiple cycles) to transform retained austenite, relieve residual stresses, and ensure dimensional stability at service temperature.
Specialized Materials for Cryogenic Service:
| Component | Material Options | Temperature Range | Key Characteristics |
| Body/Bonnet | ASTM A351 CF3/CF3M (304L/316L SS) | -196°C to +300°C | Austenitic stability at cryogenic temps |
| Body/Bonnet | ASTM A352 LCB/LCC (Low Temp Carbon Steel) | -46°C to +300°C | For less severe cryogenic service |
| Body/Bonnet | ASTM A182 F304L/F316L (Forged) | -196°C to +300°C | High integrity, small sizes |
| Ball | ASTM A182 F304/F316 | -196°C to +300°C | 100% PT/UT inspected |
| Ball | ASTM A351 CF3/CF3M (Cast) | -196°C to +300°C | Large sizes |
| Stem | ASTM A182 F304L/F316L | -196°C to +300°C | Extended strength at low temps |
| Stem | ASTM A182 F XM-19 | -196°C to +300°C | Higher strength, superior wear resistance |
| Valve Seat | PCTFE (Polychlorotrifluoroethylene) | -196°C to +150°C | Lowest leak rate, excellent cryogenic seal |
| Valve Seat | RPTFE (Reinforced PTFE) | -196°C to +200°C | Good sealing, higher temperature capability |
| Valve Seat | PEEK | -196°C to +260°C | Higher strength, metal-seat option |
| Body Seals | Spiral Wound (Graphite + SS) | -196°C to +400°C | Fire-safe, reliable seal |
| Stem Packing | Low Fugitive Emission Graphite | -196°C to +400°C | ISO 15848 certified |
| Bolting | ASTM A320 Gr.L7 / A194 Gr.7 | Low temp carbon steel | For LCB body |
| Bolting | ASTM A320 Gr.B8 CL.2 / A194 Gr.8 | -196°C to +400°C | For SS body |
| Anti-static | Copper alloy spring/ball | – | Grounds ball to body |
Critical Material Verification:
l 100% PMI (Positive Material Identification) on all alloy components
l Charpy V-notch impact testing at -196°C for body/bonnet material verification (per BS 6364)
l Hardness testing for sour service applications (per NACE MR0175)
3. Dimensional Range & Standards Compliance
| Item | Specification |
| Design Standard | BS 6364, MSS SP-134, API 608, API 6D, ASME B16.34 |
| Type | Floating Ball (≤ 8") / Trunnion-mounted Ball (≥ 2") |
| Size Range | 1/2" – 48" (DN15 – DN1200) |
| Pressure Rating | Class 150 – Class 2500 (PN20 – PN420) |
| Temperature Range | -196°C to +300°C (depending on materials) |
| End Connections | Flanged (RF, RTJ per ASME B16.5/B16.47), Butt Weld (per ASME B16.25), Socket Weld (per ASME B16.11), Threaded (NPT per ASME B1.20.1) |
| Face-to-Face | ASME B16.10, API 6D, or per customer specification |
| Fire-safe | API 607 (soft seat), API 6FA (metal seat) |
| Fugitive Emission | ISO 15848-1 (Class A or B) |
| Anti-static | Per API 608, BS 5351 |
| Bolting | ASME B16.34, ASTM A320/A194 |
| Cryogenic Testing | BS 6364, MSS SP-134 |
| Hydrostatic Testing | API 598, ISO 5208 |
| Actuation | Lever, Gear (Manual), Pneumatic, Electric, Hydraulic |
4. Available Configurations – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
| Size | Pressure Class | Body Material | Seat Material | End Connection | Actuation | Typical Application |
| 1/2" – 2" | CL150-1500 | A182 F304L/F316L | PCTFE | SW/NPT/BW | Lever | Instrumentation, sampling lines |
| 2" – 8" | CL150-1500 | A351 CF3/CF3M | PCTFE/RPTFE | Flange/BW | Lever/Gear | LNG plant, ASU piping |
| 2" – 8" | CL150-1500 | A352 LCB/LCC | PCTFE/RPTFE | Flange/BW | Gear | LNG receiving terminals |
| 6" – 24" | CL150-600 | A351 CF3/CF3M | PCTFE/PEEK | Flange/BW | Gear | Main LNG transfer lines |
| 6" – 24" | CL150-600 | A352 LCB/LCC | PCTFE | Flange/BW | Gear | Low temp carbon steel service |
| 12" – 42" | CL150-300 | A351 CF3/CF3M | PCTFE | Flange/BW | Gear/Electric | LNG storage tank outlet |
| 2" – 48" | CL150-2500 | A351 CF3M | PCTFE/RPTFE | BW only | Gear/Electric | High pressure cryogenic |
Custom configurations outside these ranges available upon request. Trunnion-mounted design mandatory for sizes ≥ 2" per API 6D, or for high pressure / high torque applications.
Key Design Features - Floating Ball (Sizes ≤ 8"):
l One-piece or two-piece body construction
l Spring-energized seat design
l Low operating torque
l Top-entry or side-entry available
Key Design Features - Trunnion-mounted (Sizes ≥ 2"):
l Ball supported by trunnion bearings for high pressure
l Spring-loaded seat design (downstream seat sealing)
l Cavity pressure relief (upstream seat or body vent)
l Low operating torque regardless of pressure
l Double block and bleed capability
l Top-entry or side-entry design
5. Common Standards for Cryogenic Ball Valves
| Standard | Description | Application |
| BS 6364 | Specification for cryogenic valves for LNG and low temperature service | Primary design standard for cryogenic service |
| MSS SP-134 | Standard for valves for cryogenic service | US equivalent standard for cryogenic valves |
| API 608 | Metal ball valves - flanged and butt-welding ends | Ball valve design standard |
| API 6D | Specification for pipeline and piping valves | Pipeline ball valve standard |
| ASME B16.34 | Valves - flanged, threaded, and welding end | Pressure-temperature rating basis |
| API 607 | Fire test for soft-seated quarter-turn valves | Fire-safe certification |
| API 6FA | Fire test for valves | Fire-safe certification for API 6D valves |
| ISO 15848-1 | Industrial valves - measurement and test procedures for fugitive emissions | Low fugitive emission certification |
| ASME B16.10 | Face-to-face and end-to-end dimensions | Installation dimension standard |
| API 598 | Valve inspection and testing | Test acceptance criteria |
| NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 | Petroleum and natural gas industries - materials for H2S environments | Sour service compliance |
Usage: LNG receiving terminals, LNG liquefaction plants, LNG carrier loading arms, LNG storage tank piping, air separation units (ASU), liquid nitrogen/liquid oxygen pipelines, liquid hydrogen service, ethylene and propylene plants, low temperature methanol service, cryogenic gas processing, liquid helium service.
6. Manufacturing Process – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
Womic Steel employs specialized manufacturing processes for cryogenic ball valves with emphasis on material qualification, deep cryogenic treatment, and cryogenic performance verification.
Step 1: Raw Material Inspection and PMI
l Body and bonnet castings/forgings verified by chemical analysis and PMI
l Charpy impact testing at -196°C per BS 6364 to verify low-temperature toughness
l 100% PT (Penetrant Testing) and UT (Ultrasonic Testing) on castings for defects
l Hardness testing for sour service applications
Step 2: Machining
l CNC machining of body, bonnet, ball, and stem to precise tolerances
l Specialized grinding of ball and seat sealing surfaces for leak-tight seal
l Surface finish of sealing areas: Ra ≤ 0.4μm (mirror finish)
l Machining of anti-static groove, blow-out proof stem groove, and cavity relief
Step 3: Deep Cryogenic Treatment (Critical for -196°C Service)
l All critical components (body, bonnet, ball, stem) subjected to deep cryogenic treatment at -196°C (liquid nitrogen soak)
l Minimum soak time: 8 hours per BS 6364 (typically 8-12 hours)
l Multiple cycles (up to 3 cycles) for large or complex castings
l Purpose: Transform retained austenite to martensite, relieve residual stresses, ensure dimensional stability at service temperature
l Followed by tempering to restore ductility (for martensitic stainless steel grades)
Step 4: Assembly
l Components cleaned to remove any oil, grease, or contaminants
l All assembly performed in clean room environment
l Lubrication with cryogenic-compatible lubricants (non-hydrocarbon based)
l Seat installation and pre-load adjustment (spring-energized seats)
l Stem seal and packing installation with low fugitive emission packing
l Extended bonnet assembly with drip plate positioned above insulation line
Step 5: Pre-Test Inspection
l Dimensional verification of all critical dimensions
l Torque verification of bolting (per ASME B16.34)
l Pneumatic seat test (low pressure) before hydrostatic testing
Step 6: Hydrostatic Test (Per API 598)
l Shell test: 1.5 × design pressure for minimum 15 seconds, no visible leakage
l Seat test: 1.1 × design pressure, low pressure seat test (0.5-0.7 MPa), acceptable leak rates per API 598
l No visible leakage on closure elements
Step 7: Cryogenic Performance Test (Critical for -196°C Service per BS 6364)
l Valve immersed in liquid nitrogen (-196°C) for minimum 2 hours
l Low pressure (0.6 MPa) pneumatic seat test at temperature
l Seat leakage measured: ≤ 0.1 cc/min per inch of seat diameter
l Torque measurement at cryogenic temperature
l Cycle test: Minimum 10 full cycles at temperature
l No damage or distortion allowed
Step 8: Fugitive Emission Test (Per ISO 15848-1)
l Valves with low fugitive emission packing tested per ISO 15848-1
l Leakage measured on helium leak detector
l Acceptance: Class A or B depending on customer requirement
Step 9: Fire-safe Test (Per API 607 or API 6FA - Upon Request)
l Valve exposed to 650-760°C fire for 30 minutes
l Seat leak test after fire and cooling
l Visual inspection for damage
Step 10: Final Inspection and Marking
l Visual inspection for surface defects, coating integrity, marking legibility
l Permanent marking per BS 6364 / API 6D: manufacturer, size, pressure class, material, temperature rating, test stamp, serial number
l Documentation preparation and review
7. Quality Control & Testing Procedures for Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
| Stage | Inspection Method | Purpose |
| Raw Material (Casting/Forging) | PMI (Positive Material Identification) | Verify alloy grade and chemistry |
| Raw Material | Charpy Impact Test at -196°C | Verify low-temperature toughness per BS 6364 |
| Raw Material | PT/UT (Casting Inspection) | Detect casting defects, inclusions, porosity |
| Machining | Dimensional Inspection | Verify critical dimensions per ASME B16.34 |
| After Deep Cryogenic Treatment | Dimensional Re-inspection | Verify dimensional stability after treatment |
| Assembly | Visual Inspection | Check for contamination, proper assembly |
| Pre-Test | Pneumatic Seat Test (Low Pressure) | Verify initial seal integrity |
| Finished Valve | Hydrostatic Shell Test | Pressure integrity per API 598 |
| Finished Valve | Hydrostatic Seat Test | Seat seal integrity per API 598 |
| Finished Valve | Cryogenic Performance Test per BS 6364 | -196°C performance verification (critical) |
| Finished Valve | Fugitive Emission Test (per ISO 15848-1) | Low leak seal integrity |
| Finished Valve | Fire-safe Test (API 607/API 6FA - upon request) | Fire-safe certification |
| Finished Valve | Torque Test | Verify operating torque at cryogenic temp |
| Finished Valve | Visual and Dimensional Inspection | Final quality verification |
| Finished Valve | Marking Verification | Ensure permanent marking per standards |
Optional Tests for Critical Cryogenic Applications:
l Helium Leak Test (mass spectrometer) for critical services
l High pressure gas seat test (per API 6D)
l Cycle life test (up to 500 cycles at cryogenic temperature)
l NDT (RT/UT) for radiographic inspection
l ATEX compliance for explosive atmospheres
l NACE MR0175 compliance for sour service
l Charpy impact test on actual components (not just test coupons)
8. Primary Applications – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
l LNG Receiving Terminals: Imported LNG from carriers enters storage tanks through unloading arms, controlled by cryogenic ball valves. A typical large LNG terminal uses 300-500 cryogenic ball valves for unloading, storage, and send-out service. Our valves comply with BS 6364 and MSS SP-134 for LNG service .
l LNG Liquefaction Plants: Natural gas is cooled to -162°C for liquefaction. Cryogenic ball valves control flow through heat exchangers, separators, and fractionation columns. These valves must maintain seal integrity through thousands of thermal cycles.
l LNG Carrier Loading Arms: During loading from terminal to LNG carrier, cryogenic ball valves isolate and control flow. Fire-safe design (API 607) is mandatory for loading arm applications.
l Air Separation Units (ASU): Liquid nitrogen (-196°C), liquid oxygen (-183°C), and liquid argon (-186°C) production and distribution. Cryogenic ball valves control product extraction and storage.
l Liquid Hydrogen Service: Liquid hydrogen is stored at -253°C, requiring specialized cryogenic valves. For applications at this extreme temperature, we recommend austenitic stainless steel body with specialized sealing systems.
l Ethylene and Propylene Plants: Low temperature applications at -40°C to -104°C. Cryogenic ball valves are standard in ethylene cold sections and propylene refrigeration circuits .
l Low Temperature Methanol Service: Methanol plants with low temperature sections (-20°C to -40°C) require cryogenic valves for reliable operation.
l Cryogenic Gas Processing: NGL (natural gas liquids) extraction where gas is chilled to separate ethane, propane, and butane. Cryogenic ball valves are used in cold separators and de-ethanizer overhead lines.
l Liquid Helium Service: Liquid helium at -269°C requires specialized cryogenic valves with PCTFE or ceramic seats. Available upon request.
l Nuclear and Aerospace: Cryogenic fluid handling in rocket propulsion and nuclear research facilities.
9. Packaging & Shipping – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
Packaging:
l Protection: All valves wrapped in rust-preventive paper or VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) paper. Flanges and end connections covered with plastic caps or steel blind flanges.
l End Protection: Plastic caps for SW/NPT ends; steel blind flanges with gaskets for flanged ends (RF or RTJ). Butt weld ends protected with plastic or steel end caps.
l Actuator Protection: Gear operators or actuators protected with plastic covers and foam padding.
l Wooden Crates: For small valves (≤ 8"), individual or multiple units packed in sturdy wooden crates with foam padding. Export-grade plywood crates with corner braces.
l Steel Cradles: For large valves (> 8") or heavy valves, individual steel cradles with flanged supports to prevent damage during transport. Valves secured by bolting to the cradle.
l Desiccant: Silica gel desiccant bags placed inside crates to absorb moisture and prevent corrosion.
Shipping:
l Mode of transportation: Standard air freight for urgent small valves; sea freight for large valves and bulk orders; project logistics for large-bore heavy valves.
l Containerization: Small valves palletized and loaded into containers; large valves in flat rack containers or open top containers.
l Break-bulk: Extra-large or heavy valves (> 48" or > 5 tons) shipped individually on break-bulk vessels.
l Labeling: Each crate or cradle labeled with valve tag number, size, pressure class, material, serial number, and handling instructions. Special labels for cryogenic service indication.
l Documentation: Full MTC (EN 10204 Type 3.1/3.2), hydrostatic test report, cryogenic performance test report per BS 6364, fugitive emission test report, fire-safe certificate (if applicable), dimensional report, packing list, commercial invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, CE Declaration of Performance.
Documentation Provided with Each Shipment:
l Mill Test Certificate (EN 10204 Type 3.1 standard; Type 3.2 upon request)
l Hydrostatic Test Report (shell and seat, pressure, duration, results)
l Cryogenic Performance Test Report per BS 6364 (-196°C test results, leak rates, torque)
l Fugitive Emission Test Report (ISO 15848-1 Class A or B)
l Fire-safe Test Certificate (API 607 or API 6FA - if required)
l Dimensional Inspection Report (face-to-face, flange drilling, bore size)
l Material Test Reports (PMI, Charpy impact at -196°C)
l PMI Test Reports (all alloy components)
l Deep Cryogenic Treatment Record (temperature, soak time, cycles)
l Actuator Test Reports (if applicable)
l Packing List, Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin
l CE Declaration of Performance (DoP) for European shipments
10. Womic Steel Advantages & FAQ – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
Why Partner with Womic Steel for Cryogenic Ball Valves?
l Complete Size Range: 1/2" – 48" (DN15 – DN1200), Class 150 – Class 2500.
l Deep Cryogenic Treatment at -196°C – ensures dimensional stability and prevents distortion at service temperature (mandatory per BS 6364 for ≤ -101°C service).
l Guaranteed cryogenic performance – 100% valves tested at -196°C per BS 6364 before shipment.
l Fire-safe design – API 607 or API 6FA certification available for all ball valves.
l Low fugitive emission – ISO 15848-1 Class A or B packing standard for all valves.
l Anti-static and blow-out proof stem – standard safety features.
l Choice of floating or trunnion-mounted design depending on size and pressure.
l Choice of body materials: CF3, CF3M, CF8, CF8M, LCB, LCC, duplex stainless steels.
l Choice of seat materials: PCTFE (primary cryogenic seat), RPTFE, PEEK.
l PED 2014/68/EU CE marking for European pressure equipment.
l Competitive lead times: 8-12 weeks for standard configurations, 16-20 weeks for large-bore custom designs.
l Third-party inspection accepted (SGS, BV, TÜV, DNV, ABS, LR).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
Q: What is the difference between a standard ball valve and a cryogenic ball valve?
A: Cryogenic ball valves have several key features not found in standard valves: extended bonnet with drip plate to protect stem seals from cryogenic temperatures; deep cryogenic treatment (-196°C soak) of all components to prevent distortion; specialized seat materials (PCTFE, PEEK) that maintain seal integrity at low temperatures; low fugitive emission packing; and mandatory cryogenic performance testing per BS 6364. Standard ball valves typically have non-extended bonnets, standard polymer seats that become brittle at cryogenic temperatures, and no cryogenic testing.
Q: What is the minimum service temperature for your cryogenic ball valves?
A: Our standard cryogenic ball valves are rated for -196°C service (liquid nitrogen temperature) per BS 6364 and MSS SP-134. For liquid hydrogen (-253°C) or liquid helium (-269°C) service, we offer specialized designs with modified materials and seals. Please contact our engineering team for these extreme temperature applications.
Q: What is deep cryogenic treatment and why is it required?
A: Deep cryogenic treatment is the process of cooling valve components to -196°C (liquid nitrogen) for a minimum of 8 hours, then slowly returning to room temperature. This process transforms retained austenite (which can cause dimensional changes at cryogenic temperatures) to martensite, relieves residual stresses from machining, and ensures dimensional stability at service temperature. BS 6364 requires deep cryogenic treatment for valves with temperatures ≤ -101°C.
Q: What seat materials do you recommend for -196°C service?
A: For -196°C service, we recommend PCTFE (polychlorotrifluoroethylene) as the primary seat material. PCTFE maintains its mechanical properties and provides excellent sealing at cryogenic temperatures with virtually no cold flow. RPTFE (reinforced PTFE) is suitable for -196°C but has slightly higher leak rates. PEEK can be used at -196°C but is more commonly used for higher temperature services (up to 260°C) or metal-seat applications.
Q: Is cryogenic performance testing mandatory?
A: Per BS 6364 and MSS SP-134, cryogenic performance testing is mandatory for valves used in LNG and cryogenic service. Tests must be performed at -196°C (liquid nitrogen) with low pressure pneumatic seat test after temperature stabilization. Womic performs 100% cryogenic performance testing on every cryogenic ball valve before shipment.
Q: What fire-safe certification do you offer?
A: We offer fire-safe certification per API 607 (for soft-seated ball valves) and API 6FA (for metal-seated ball valves). Testing involves exposing the valve to 650-760°C fire for 30 minutes, followed by a seat leak test. Fire-safe design is mandatory for most LNG and petrochemical applications.
Q: Do you offer low fugitive emission packing?
A: Yes. All our cryogenic ball valves are supplied with low fugitive emission packing tested to ISO 15848-1. We can offer Class A or Class B certification depending on your requirements. Low fugitive emission packing is standard for valves with extended bonnets.
Q: What is the difference between floating ball and trunnion-mounted ball valves?
A: Floating ball valves have the ball supported only by the seats (ball "floats" between the seats). This design is used for sizes up to 8" and moderate pressures. Trunnion-mounted ball valves have the ball supported by trunnion bearings (top and bottom), which reduces operating torque and allows larger sizes and higher pressures. Per API 6D, trunnion-mounted design is mandatory for sizes ≥ 2" in pipeline service.
Q: Can you supply cryogenic ball valves with NACE MR0175 compliance?
A: Yes. For sour service cryogenic applications (LNG with H2S or ethylene with H2S), we supply cryogenic ball valves with NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 compliant materials. This includes hardness testing, appropriate material selection, and documented compliance.
Q: What is the typical lead time for cryogenic ball valves?
A: Standard lead time is 8-12 weeks for standard configurations (floating ball, sizes ≤ 8", Class 150-600). For trunnion-mounted valves (sizes ≥ 2", larger sizes), lead time is 12-16 weeks. For large-bore valves (> 24") or special materials, lead time is 16-20 weeks. Rush orders may be available for smaller quantities (4-6 weeks) with expedite fees.
Q: Do you offer actuation for cryogenic ball valves?
A: Yes. We offer manual operation with lever (sizes ≤ 4") or gear operator (sizes ≥ 2"), pneumatic actuation (spring-return or double-acting), electric actuation (on-off or modulating), and hydraulic actuation. All actuators are sized to provide adequate torque at cryogenic temperatures (torque increases at low temperatures due to thermal contraction).
Q: What testing documentation do you provide with each valve?
A: We provide a comprehensive documentation package including: EN 10204 Type 3.1 Mill Test Certificate (Type 3.2 upon request), Hydrostatic Test Report, Cryogenic Performance Test Report per BS 6364 (with leak rates and torque), Fugitive Emission Test Report (if applicable), Fire-safe Certificate (if applicable), PMI Test Reports, Dimensional Inspection Report, Deep Cryogenic Treatment Record, Material Test Reports (including Charpy impact at -196°C), and CE Declaration of Performance for European shipments.
Project Experience & Case Study – Cryogenic Ball Valve (-196°C)
Project: LNG Receiving Terminal Expansion – Jiangsu, China
Standard & Grade: BS 6364, MSS SP-134, API 6D, API 607 (Fire-safe)
Specifications & Quantity:
l 16" (DN400) Trunnion-mounted Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 8 units (approx. 3.2 tons/unit)
l 12" (DN300) Trunnion-mounted Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 16 units (approx. 2.1 tons/unit)
l 8" (DN200) Floating Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 24 units (approx. 0.8 tons/unit)
l 6" (DN150) Floating Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 32 units (approx. 0.5 tons/unit)
l 4" (DN100) Floating Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 48 units (approx. 0.3 tons/unit)
l 2" (DN50) Floating Ball Valves, Class 300, CF3M Body, PCTFE Seats – 64 units (approx. 0.15 tons/unit)
Total: 192 units (approx. 28 tons)
Usage: LNG unloading arm and storage tank inlet/outlet isolation. Service temperature: -162°C (LNG), design pressure: 5.5 MPa. Extended bonnet with drip plate, gear-operated (manual). Fire-safe design per API 607, low fugitive emission packing per ISO 15848-1 Class B.
Technical Challenges & Solutions:
1. Extreme temperature (-162°C) requiring reliable cryogenic sealing – LNG service at -162°C (lower than liquid nitrogen at -196°C) requires PCTFE seats due to their excellent cryogenic sealing properties. Womic supplied PCTFE seats with spring-energized design ensuring seal integrity through thermal cycles. All 192 valves passed cryogenic testing with leak rates < 0.05 cc/min per inch of seat diameter.
2. Fire-safe design for LNG unloading arm service – LNG unloading arms are critical safety junctions. Client required API 607 fire-safe certification for all 16" and 12" valves. Womic designed secondary metal seat backup to maintain sealing in case of fire. Fire-safe test conducted and certified by third-party laboratory.
3. Low fugitive emission packing for environmental compliance – Terminal located near population center required ISO 15848-1 Class B packing. Womic supplied low fugitive emission graphite packing with extended bonnet design ensuring packing temperature stays above -20°C. ISO 15848-1 Class B certification provided for all valves.
4. Deep cryogenic treatment for large castings (16" body) – Large CF3M castings (16" body) are susceptible to retained austenite which can cause dimensional change at -162°C. Womic performed three-cycle deep cryogenic treatment (-196°C soak, 12 hours per cycle) with intermediate warming. Dimensional re-inspection confirmed no distortion after treatment.
5. Trunnion-mounted design for 16" and 12" valves – Per API 6D, trunnion-mounted design is mandatory for sizes ≥ 2" in pipeline service. Womic supplied double block and bleed (DBB) trunnion-mounted ball valves with cavity pressure relief (upstream seat venting) to prevent overpressure from liquid expansion in closed cavity.
6. Third-party inspection by TÜV – Client required TÜV witnessed testing for all 192 valves. Womic coordinated with TÜV surveyor for hydrostatic test, cryogenic performance test (-162°C liquid nitrogen), and fugitive emission test. TÜV issued individual certificates for each valve within 14 days of test completion.
7. Just-in-time delivery for terminal expansion schedule – The terminal expansion had a tight schedule with no buffer. Womic delivered all 192 valves in 4 shipments over 12 weeks, with each shipment containing the valves needed for the next installation phase. First shipment (16" and 12" valves) arrived 4 weeks after order confirmation – ahead of schedule. No delays to construction.
Result: LNG receiving terminal expansion successfully commissioned in 2022. All 192 cryogenic ball valves have operated at -162°C for over 2 years with no maintenance incidents. Client's valve specialist stated: "Womic's cryogenic valves consistently outperformed those from established European suppliers in terms of torque consistency and seal integrity. We have reduced our maintenance schedule from annual to 18-month intervals." Client issued a 5-year frame agreement for all future cryogenic valve requirements.
Contact:
Website: www.womicsteel.com
E-mail: sales@womicsteel.com
Tel / WhatsApp / WeChat:
Victor: +86 15575100681
Jack: +86 18390957568
Womic Steel – Your reliable partner for cryogenic ball valves (-196°C) for LNG terminals, air separation units, ethylene plants, and industrial gas service worldwide.
Post time: Jun-18-2026