Small Ball Valves to API 6D?

Hi KernOily,

API 6D does cover small sizes (starting from 1/2"). However, not many manufacturers produce 6D valves for sizes less than 2".

You can find 3/4" ball valves designed per API 608 or ASME B16.34 easily for petroleum industry.

I suggest API608.

Thanks. API 608 is for flanged valves; I need threaded and/or socketweld. Thank you!

Hi KernOily,

API 608 does cover most end connections.

See following excerpt from 5th Edition API 608.

1.1 This standard specifies the requirements for metal ball valves suitable for petroleum, petrochemical, and industrial applications that have:
— flanged ends in sizes DN 15 through DN 600 (NPS 1/2 through NPS 24);
— butt-welding ends in sizes DN 15 through DN 600 (NPS 1/2 through NPS 24);
— socket-welding ends in sizes DN 8 through DN 50 (NPS 1/4 through NPS 2);
— threaded ends in sizes DN 8 through DN 50 (NPS 1/4 through NPS 2).
Corresponding to the nominal pipe sizes in ASME B36.10M.

Excellent - thanks. I missed that. Thank you!

Question - Does compliance with API 608 mean that the valve complies with 6D also?

Hi KernOily,

No. API 6D is focused on pipeline valves, while API 608 is on metallic ball valves in general.

In my limited experience (9 years dealing with valves in O&G), API 6D usually has stricter requirements and is commonly referred to by major O&G companies when purchasing ball valves 2" and above. Below 2", they will refer to API 608 or ASME B16.34, even though the standard covers larger sizes.