Figure 3 . Used pig ball valve in the Vietsovpetro Offshore Platform : enhancing pipeline efficiency and space optimisation π www . valve-world . net Valve World March 2025 29
Ball Valves
launchers , receivers and piping , reducing both space and weight on offshore platforms ( Harris & White , 2023 ).
• Space optimisation : by reducing the number of components , pig ball valves occupy less space , which is crucial for offshore operations ( Garcia & Martinez , 2024 ).
Figure 1 . 3D Design and model of installed pig ball valve in the Vietnam Offshore Project
Wafer monoblock valves :
• Monoblock construction : the singlepiece design of wafer monoblock valves reduces the number of components , thus reducing both space and weight requirements ( Zhang & Li , 2024 ).
• Simplified integration : the compact design allows for easier integration into existing systems , which optimises space and reduces installation time ( Chen & Zhao , 2024 ).
5 . Lower costs and cost-effectiveness
Both valve types offer significant cost-saving advantages over traditional valve systems .
Figure 2 . Wafer monoblock ball valves : space-saving and efficient solution for offshore operations
Wafer monoblock valves Wafer monoblock valves feature a singlepiece design that reduces the number of components , lowering both the weight and space requirements . This type of valve fits seamlessly between two flanges , simplifying installation and ensuring enhanced reliability due to fewer potential leak points ( Zhang & Li , 2024 ).
3 . Why offshore platforms need pig ball and wafer monoblock ball valves
As offshore operations evolve , valve technologies that offer improved efficiency , reduced weight and minimal space usage are increasingly essential . Pig ball valves and wafer monoblock valves are designed to meet these needs , offering numerous advantages over traditional valve systems .
& Li , 2024 ; Garcia & Martinez , 2024 ; Zhang & Li , 2024 ).
4 . Reduced weight and space usage
Both pig ball valves and wafer monoblock valves stand out due to their significant reductions in weight and space usage , which are vital in offshore applications .
Pig ball valves :
• Compact design : the integrated design eliminates the need for separate pig
Pig ball valves :
• Lower initial and operational costs : the reduced number of components simplifies installation and lowers upfront costs . Maintenance savings are also notable , with pig ball valves requiring less maintenance than traditional systems ( Harris & White , 2023 ).
• Statistical data : pig ball valves reduce installation costs by 15 % and operational costs by 20 % over their lifecycle ( Garcia & Martinez , 2024 ).
Wafer monoblock valves :
• Material savings : wafer monoblock valves use less material due to
Space and weight optimisation Traditional valve systems require multiple components , such as launchers and receivers , consuming significant space and increasing the platform ’ s weight . Pig ball valves integrate the functions of these components into a single unit , reducing both space and weight ( Smith & Jones , 2023 ). Similarly , wafer monoblock valves are made from a single piece of material , resulting in smaller , lighter valves , critical in spaceconstrained offshore environments ( Zhang
Figure 3 . Used pig ball valve in the Vietsovpetro Offshore Platform : enhancing pipeline efficiency and space optimisation π www . valve-world . net Valve World March 2025 29