Ceramic ball valves are heavier than regular ball valves of the same size mainly due to the difference in materials. Ceramic ball valves use industrial ceramics for critical components such as the sealing surfaces, whereas regular ball valves typically use lighter materials like metals or plastics. Although ceramic materials offer excellent wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and hardness, they tend to have a higher density compared to materials like plastic or aluminum alloys, which makes ceramic ball valves heavier.

The specific reasons can be summarized as follows:

1. Higher material density: Ceramic materials generally have a higher density. Industrial ceramics such as alumina or zirconia used in these valves have higher density compared to metals or plastics, resulting in increased weight.

2. Design considerations: To ensure the strength and impact resistance of the ceramic ball valve, thicker ceramic components are often used, which adds to the weight. In contrast, regular metal or plastic ball valves do not require as thick a wall design.

3. Durability requirements: Ceramic ball valves are designed for environments with high wear or corrosion, so they need to be more robust and durable to perform reliably in such extreme conditions. This often requires heavier materials and more solid construction.

In summary, the increased weight of ceramic ball valves is mainly due to the higher density of the material and the design requirements for durability and reliability in harsh operating conditions.