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12.02.2025 |

A definitive summary of the API 608 requirements for metal ball valves.

Source: SVF Tech Brief No. 1089 — API 608 Standard for Valve Requirements

Table of contents

What is API 608?

API 608 is the standard titled “Metal Ball Valves – Flanged, Threaded and Welding Ends”. It covers additional requirements for metal ball valves that are in full conformance with the requirements of ASME B16.34.

 

Scope & Valve Classes Covered

  • Flanged and butt-welding end valves in standard classes 150, 300 and 600.
  • Socket welding and threaded end valves in standard classes 150, 300, 600 and 800.

 

API-608: Requirements

  • Valve pressure-temperature rating shall be the lesser of the shell rating or the seat rating.
  • Full and reduced port ball valves must meet minimum bore diameter requirements.
  • Stem must be electrically “grounded” to the body (anti-static device).
  • Hollow ball components are not allowed (unless specifically accepted by the customer).
  • Stem torsional strength must be at least twice the maximum operating torque (Safety Factor = 2).
  • Torsional failure of the stem must be external to pressure-containing envelope and stem packing.

Anti-Static Device: additional detail

Valves should incorporate an anti-static feature ensuring electrical continuity between the stem and the body, or stem, body and ball providing a discharge path with resistance less than 10 ohms.

 

SVF Flow Control Ball Valves That Comply with API 608 

The following SVF valve series as complying with API 608:

  • CleanFLOW (with anti-static device)
  • Series 8 (with anti-static device)
  • H7 (with anti-static device)
  • EZ9B
  • HBEV
  • 41C & B41D 150# Flanged Valves
  • B42D 300# Flanged Valves
  • B43C 600# Flanged Valves