The primary function of most water valves is to either entirely or partially restrict the passage of water through pipelines. Water valves are available in a variety of designs. The location and application of the valve can determine the design. This can be a straightforward faucet valve that is used to halt the passage of water through the faucet. It can be more complex, such as a butterfly valve. The butterfly valve is designed for use on large-diameter pipelines.

It may be challenging to distinguish between the different types of water valves. Studying these essential 9 plumbing valves can help you better understand their designs and applications.

9 Main Types of Brass Valves Used in Plumbing Systems

The following plumbing valves are employed in pipelines and are contingent upon the requirements. The cost of plumbing valves in a pipe system corresponds to 20 to 30% of the total cost of piping. Additionally, the price of a specific type and dimension of plumbing valve fluctuates by a factor of 10 if you opt for a ball valve to fulfill the same function as a butterfly valve. The cost may be higher. The economics of the process plant and the selection of plumbing valves for operation are important. The following are some of the most used plumbing valve types.

1. Ball Valve

Ball valves are probably the most used valves around the world. Standard materials of ball valves are brass, stainless steel, bronze, PVC, etc… This valve is used for liquid-type Media like water, gas, oil, air, etc.

The structure of brass ball valves is quite simple. It comprises a body and a ball installed in the center of the valve body. The ball has a hole at its center, which allows the media to flow. The valve also has a collection of rounded seats, which produce a seal when the ball is closed. A lever-style handle is connected to the ball through the stem. 

A ball valve is a shut-off valve that regulates the passage of a liquid or gas using a rotary ball with a bore. The medium can either pass through or be blocked by rotating the ball a quarter turn (90 degrees) around its axis, opening or closing the valve. When the lever is pulled to 90 degrees, the ball hole meets the pipe’s entrance, and the liquid starts flowing. Again, when the lever is moved 0 degrees, the ball turns, and the mouth of the line closes. As a result, the flow stops.

Some terms should be checked when buying brass ball valves. Check the weight, brass quality, pressure endurance, and whether the lever and ball work well. These points should also be taken care of while choosing the brass valve manufacturer.

Ball valves are distinguished by their long service life and consistent sealing properties, even when not used for an extended period. They are more resilient to contaminated media than most other valve types. Additionally, certain types of ball valves are employed as control valves. This application is less prevalent than other control valves due to the relatively limited accuracy of flow rate control.

Best for:

Ball valves are more reliable and user-friendly than gate valves, so they are employed in residential piping.

2. Globe Valve

A globe valve has a round metal body resembling a ball from the outside. Although it may be costly, it is a reliable and long-lasting water shut-off valve. A baffle with a water passage outlet is located within the globe valve. The handle operates an ejector with a gasket or seal on the underside. The handle closes the valve, obstructing the water flow port. The stem tightens within the valve when the handle is operated.

A globe valve is employed when the water flow must be regulated variable. It is observed regulating pipelines that travel outdoors to water spigots. However, it can also be located in any location where a branch of the plumbing line has a shut-off.

Please read our blog for a complete comparison: Globe Valve Vs. Ball Valve

3. Gate Valve 

The gate valve is one of the most encountered water valves in residential and commercial irrigation systems. Gate valves were the first valve type to be patented in America in 1839. It has been employed as a main shut-off valve, isolation valve, hot water tank valve, and other applications. The circular handle of gate valves can be rotated to lower an interior gate. This handle helps to reduce or completely halt the flow of water.

These types of water valves enable users to regulate the precise flow rate of the water instead of toggling between open and closed positions. Gate valves are the optimal solution for residences confronted with persistent water issues.

Also, they feature a controlled opening and closing mechanism. The stem and valve nut may become lax with prolonged use, which can result in breaches. In contrast, the valve may become useless and obstructed if it is never utilized.

Best for: 

Among the types of residential water valves that are often utilized.

• Hot water tank valves
• Isolation valves
• Primary shut-down valves
• Open valves

Please read our complete blog: What is a Brass Gate Valves-Guide

4. Butterfly Valve

The butterfly valve is named after the rotating disc within it. This disc is characterized by a dense center accommodating the valve stem and a slender fin or wing on either side. It resembles the fundamental form of a butterfly. The control lever rotates the disk, which enables it to partially or entirely restrict the passage of water through the valve.

These valves are employed in water pipelines with 3 inches or greater diameter. Thus, they are uncommon in residential plumbing. Due to their bulk and design, these valves are more expensive than other residential valves.

Butterfly valves are most suitable for commercial, institutional, and industrial infrastructure. They are rarely employed in typical residential applications.

5. Angle Valve

The Angle valve is a manually controlled valve whose outlet is angled at an empty opening angle at right angles. It is used to regulate the flow of water in the right direction. Based on the mechanical function and materials utilized… each angle valve is designed to withstand a certain amount of pressure.

Angle valves also have a seal, plug, and stem to operate quickly and efficiently. 

6. Check Valve

The Check valve is an exciting type of brass valve. The primary purpose of the check valve is to prevent the backflow of the liquid. Because they only allow the media to flow in one direction and won’t let it come back. The inner pressure must be higher than the external pressure to work the check valve properly… it is also known as cracking pressure.

The valve may not have the same capacity to obstruct the passage of incoming water as a typical valve. It does not have the same appearance, so its significance in the piping system is not diminished. This type of valve is tailored to ease the passage of water through the valve’s inlet.

A hinged disk is opened by the force of the incoming water, preventing the valve from reducing the water pressure. The same hinged disk, but precludes water from passing through the valve in the opposite direction. Also, any force applied to the disk pushes it to be closed.

The Check valve doesn’t need a handle, lever, actuator, or human help… they work automatically. There are different types, sizes, and designs available for check valves. The inner mechanism must work well inside the check valve.

Check valves are used to stop backflow in the plumbing system. It results in cross-contamination issues between different plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Backflow can happen when the pressure within a pump, sprinkler system, or water channel is less than the pressure within the primary water system. Installing a check valve can avoid this issue.

Ideal for:

• Effective prevention of backflow in residential plumbing systems
• Sprinkler systems
• Safety applications.

Also, check valves should be considered for devices susceptible to intermittent or continuous backflow.

7. Pressure Release Valve

Pressure release valves are designed for the safety of a system during an overpressure moment. It releases the extra pressure from the pipes like the pressure regulator does in a pressure cooker. This type of brass valve controls the pressure, temperature, and liquid flow.

Another plumbing fixture known as a valve is a pressure relief valve, which operates more than a standard water valve. The purpose of a pressure relief valve is to protect the water system by discharging vapor and heated water. Also, the pressure within the system exceeds a certain threshold rather than restricting or preventing the passage of water.

These valves are installed on hot water containers to mitigate overheating, rupturing, and deformation caused by excessive pressure. A spring mechanism is located within the valve. It responds to the pressure and compresses when it exceeds a certain threshold. The spring’s compression opens the valve, reducing or alleviating the pressure on the system by releasing vapor and water.

Ideal for:

Users can lower the pressure in the hot water tank by installing a pressure relief valve. It is intended to protect the home’s plumbing system.

8. Needle Valve

Your house contains one or more needle valves, also known as saddle valves, even though they are no longer permitted by building codes in many regions. These attach a water supply conduit to a refrigerator, water filter, or other appliance. They secure a water conduit and insert a cylindrical needle into the pipe to extract water. The appliance is supplied with water by connecting a flexible copper or plastic supply conduit to the valve’s coupling.

The cost of needle valves is variable and not considered exceptionally reliable or durable. Most codes mandate that this connection be established using a standard fixture shut-off valve.

9. Supply Stop Valve

Supply stop valves are a specialized form called supply inlet or outlet valves. They are designed for utility fixtures like basins, restrooms, and laundry washers.

Furthermore, these valves are available in a variety of configurations. These are in the form of linear, angles, compression, and quarter-turn. So, it is the user’s responsibility to select the most suitable supply stop valve for the piping system.

These valves are located on the lavatory water supply line. They halt the flow of water to specific plumbing fixtures and appliances. Use stop valves to isolate plumbing appliances. It is also used in fixtures throughout the house to facilitate the completion of maintenance and repairs.

Best suited for:

A supply stop valve is on a supply line for the commode, refrigerator, dishwasher, sink, and laundry washer.

How to Choose Plumbing Valve?

One of the most vital factors to consider when selecting a water plumbing valve is whether you are interested in restricting the flow of water partially or entirely. For instance, ball valves that rapidly close or open the water supply are non-variable. They are employed in residential and industrial settings to start and stop water flow without a pressure decrease. In contrast, globe valves enable a greater degree of flexibility in flow. They may induce a pressure decrease.

The location of the valve is an extra critical factor to check. Fixture valves are particularly susceptible to this. Depending on the pipelines’ placement, determine whether your fixture needs a straight or angled valve.

Summary

Ball valves, globe valves, gate valves, butterfly valves, check valves, pressure relief valves, needle valves, and stop valves are the 8 types of valves often used in plumbing systems. Due to the distinctive advantages of each variety, plumbing systems are ensured to function safely and efficiently. Understanding these types of plumbing valves can assist in selecting the one appropriate for your requirements. It also helps in enhancing the longevity and performance of the piping system.

If you have more questions or requirements for residential valves, please contact Plumberstar, one of China’s leading professional residential valve manufacturers.