Brass Vs PVC Ball Valve: Which One Is The Best

Home Brass Vs PVC Ball Valve: Which One Is The Best
06/09/2022
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Ball valves are often used in pipe systems as on/off control valves to stop or regulate the flow of liquids or gasses through the pipe system. The debate of brass vs. PVC ball valves has been ongoing. There are pros and cons to both types of valves, and the decision of which one to use ultimately comes down to the application’s specific needs. 

Ball valves are common fittings used in many applications, so knowing the different types and what they offer is essential before deciding which one to purchase. Brass and PVC ball valves differ in several ways, but they’re both durable options that can save time and money for the next project. Read on to learn more about the dombor valve features and find out which one could be best for the application!

What is Brass Ball Valve 

Brass Ball Valve
Source: istock

A brass ball valve is a valve that uses a ball to control the flow of water. The ball has a hole that allows water to flow when the valve opens. When the valve is closed, the hole is sealed, and water cannot flow through. Brass ball valves are used in many applications, including plumbing, pipeline transport, HVAC, and industrial applications. 

Brass ball valves offer several advantages over other types of valves. They are more durable than PVC ball valves and can be designed to withstand higher temperatures than most other types of valves. They also have a special close-off force due to their design which helps ensure that the flow stops quickly after the handle is rotated back into its original position. Brass ball valves also do not require any packing material or sealant on their seat surface, which means they will last longer without needing maintenance or repair work.

Advantages Of Brass Ball Valve

Brass ball valves are solid and durable. They can withstand high temperatures and pressures and are not susceptible to corrosion. Brass ball valves are also easy to clean and maintain. They’re a good choice for applications requiring a tight seal, such as in plumbing or water lines. The trade-off is that brass valves will erode more quickly than other valves if left untreated. They should be protected with grease, oil, or some other coating to keep them from rusting over time. 

Another downside of brass ball valves is that they are more expensive than PVC. The best way to avoid this extra cost is by purchasing them when they’re on sale or making sure to know the manufacturer’s return policy before buying one – some industrial ball valve manufacturer offer discounts on purchasing large quantities of the same type of valve at once.

What Is a PVC Ball Valve?

PVC Ball Valve
Source: istock

A PVC ball valve is used to control water flow in a piping system. The ball in the valve controls the flow of water by opening and closing the passage. PVC ball valves are available in various sizes and styles to suit the needs.

PVC ball valves are durable and can withstand high temperatures and pressures. They are also corrosion resistant and have a long lifespan and are considered as oil and gas valves because they are typically used in industrial applications but can also be used in residential applications. When choosing a PVC ball valve, it is essential to consider the size of the valve, pressure, temperature, and material compatibility.

Advantages Of PVC Ball Valve

  • They’re incredibly versatile. PVC ball valves can be used in various agricultural and industrial applications.
  • They’re solid and durable. PVC ball valves are built to last and can withstand even the most challenging conditions.
  • They’re easy to install. PVC ball valves can be installed quickly and easily, with no special tools or training required.
  • They’re cost-effective. PVC ball valves are an affordable option for both commercial and residential applications.
  • They’re low maintenance. PVC ball valves require little to no maintenance, making them a hassle-free option for busy homeowners and businesses alike.

Brass Vs. PVC Ball Valve

Brass Vs. PVC Ball Valve
Source: istock

The material of a ball valve is one of the most important factors to consider when making a purchase. Brass and PVC are two of the most popular materials on the market for chemical processing, but what’s the difference?. Here are five key differences between brass and PVC ball valves: 

  • Price – brass tends to be more expensive than PVC, but the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of brass used. 
  • Availability – both types are widely available, with more manufacturers offering them in recent years. 
  • Temperature Limits – PVC can withstand higher temperatures than brass, which makes it a better choice for high-temperature applications. 
  • Durability – due to its inherent qualities, like chemical resistance and durability, many customers choose PVC over brass as their ball valve material of choice. 
  • Maintenance Requirements – maintenance requirements for both materials are about equal; however, if an application will not require cleaning or draining, then PVC may be a better option due to its ability to resist certain chemicals found in specific environments where it’s exposed regularly PVC does not have the same issues with electrolysis (a chemical reaction that occurs when metals are submerged in water) that brass does Additionally, there is no risk of corrosion occurring on surfaces that come into contact with fluids because there is no need to pre-clean these surfaces before sealing them together. Overall, PVC may be a better choice for some users, such as in refining and petrochemical industries where the environment is corrosive.

How To Choose: Brass Vs. PVC Ball Valve

Untitled 2
Source: istock

Choosing the correct valve for applications can be tricky. Here are eight factors that help to decide between brass and PVC ball valves – 

  • Material: PVC valves are generally made of a thermoplastic material that is tough, durable, and resistant to chemicals. 
  • Price: The price of a valve depends on its size; buying a small valve costs less than buying a larger one. However, prices may vary depending on where they were purchased from. 
  • Fluid Handling: Brass ball valves handle fluid better because they don’t experience plasticizer leaching as PVC ones do over time. Plasticizer leaching in PVC piping systems causes severe corrosion and decay, reducing their durability over time. In contrast, brass doesn’t rust as quickly as PVC when water or other fluids are exposed.
  • Temperature Range: Both PVC and brass valves have an operating temperature range of up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Heat Exchanger Design: Some heat exchangers use valves with threaded connections, which makes them more compatible with threaded ports, whereas others require solder fittings which means they are compatible with welding joints. This factor might determine which type of ball valve is best for welded joints. 
  • Water Quality: Brass has excellent resistance against chlorides and other corrosive compounds found in water, while PVC materials corrode more quickly when exposed to such chemicals or salts. 
  • Maintenance Cost: Brass ball valves tend to cost less in maintenance due to their superior corrosion-resistance capabilities compared to P.V.C. 
  • Clogging: PVC valves usually clog up faster than brass ones because of their low density. Brass is a denser metal that makes it easier for fluids to flow through without getting clogged up by debris and particles stuck inside the tube.

Conclusion

Brass ball valves are stronger and more durable than PVC and are also more expensive. Brass is the way to go if one needs a ball valve that can withstand high temperatures and corrosive materials. On the other hand, PVC ball valves are typically cheaper than brass ones, so not too concerned about longevity but still want a reliable product that won’t break the bank, go with PVC. Ultimately, it all comes down to the specific needs and what one is willing to spend. Also, contact us to purchase reliable industrial ball valve