Stainless Steel Ball Valves
Stainless steel ball valves are highly popular in the plumbing industry for controlling water flow. There are two main materials used to manufacture these valves: brass and stainless steel. With the increasing popularity of stainless steel fittings in non-industrial applications, stainless steel ball valves have gained more attention.
Increased Corrosion Resistance
Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion than brass, which is particularly important for valves since they need to open and close, and corrosion can cause significant problems. High corrosion can lead to ball valve failure or inability to operate.
Stainless steel ball valves are more resistant to harsh water types, ensuring longer valve durability. If you seek to increase corrosion resistance in your system, a fully stainless steel setup is recommended.
Types of Stainless Steel
In the stainless steel ball valve series, there are two types of stainless steel: 304 and 316. These are different grades with varying compositions. For greater corrosion resistance, you can use grade 316, which offers higher resistance compared to the standard 304.
Pressure Ratings
Generally, stainless steel ball valves have a higher pressure rating than brass valves. The working pressure for stainless steel valves can range from 0.0013 MPa to 1000 MPa (extremely high pressure) and the operating temperature from -269°C (extremely low temperature) to 1430°C.
In commercial, industrial, or well applications, higher pressure requirements might necessitate the use of stainless steel ball valves.
Wide Applications
One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel is its versatility in many applications. Stainless steel has gained popularity in common plumbing applications due to its overall competitiveness with other materials, in addition to its industrial and commercial uses.
Currently, the price difference between lead-free brass and stainless steel is very similar, and in some cases, stainless steel is even cheaper. This makes it more feasible to use in various applications. The only thing to keep in mind is that working with stainless steel differs from brass and requires specific sealing methods.
Choosing the Right Valve
When deciding to purchase stainless steel ball valves, it is crucial to choose the appropriate product based on your actual needs to avoid unnecessary losses from incorrect selection.
Source: hbsinostarmetals
