The main applications of cemented carbide valve balls in deep-sea drilling valves are in oil pumps and related valve systems in the oil and gas extraction field, particularly in artificial lift systems and subsea valve control. It is one of the most critical sealing and opening/closing components in these devices, effectively coping with the extreme challenges of the deep-sea environment.
Deep-sea drilling involves high pressure (tens of thousands of psi at depths of several thousand meters), high temperature, low temperature circulation, highly corrosive media (such as seawater containing H?S and CO? and acidic oil and gas), and highly abrasive fluids (heavy oil or slurries containing sand and particles). Ordinary metal valve balls are prone to rapid wear, corrosion, or failure, leading to reduced pump efficiency, leakage, and even equipment malfunction. Cemented carbide valve balls, with their unique properties, have become the preferred material.
Advantages of using cemented carbide valve balls in deep-sea drilling valves:
1. High hardness (HRA 90 and above, approaching diamond levels) and wear resistance, resisting erosion from sand and particles, significantly extending service life in sand-bearing or heavy oil wells.
2. Excellent corrosion resistance, strongly resistant to seawater, hydrogen sulfide, and acid/alkali media, suitable for deep-sea sulfur-containing oil wells and corrosive environments.
3. High strength and impact resistance, ensuring spherical accuracy and sealing integrity under high pressure differentials, achieving zero or low leakage seals.
4. Good thermal stability and low coefficient of friction, supporting rapid opening and closing and frequent operation, reducing torque and energy consumption.
In specific applications, cemented carbide valve balls are often used in combination with matching valve seats to form valve core assemblies, mainly installed in check valves or ball valve systems of oil pumps to control the upward flow of oil and gas while preventing backflow. In underwater ball valves for deep-sea platforms or subsea manifolds, cemented carbide coatings or solid balls can also be used to improve overall durability.
