Whether you are improving your commercial plumbing or repiping your residential structures, the importance of valves shines through at every other step. From controlling flow to shutting-off supply, these essential fixtures perform a critical function for every infrastructure.
But to get the most out of your valves, it’s essential to know exactly what type of options you have at your disposal. Learning the difference between a stainless steel valve and a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) valve not only expands your knowledge but also helps you pick the most suitable fixture for your specific use.
Suppose you wonder about the differences between metal materials such as a copper valve or thermoplastic compositions such as a PVC valve. In that case, the following information can help you learn more about the key distinctions of these plumbing fixtures.
Stainless Steel Valve Holds Widespread Popularity
Stainless steel knifegate valves are made from different iron-based alloys. They also use chromium, which makes sure that the material doesn’t rust despite extensive use. The material is available in various grades, such as 400 Series and 316 Series, which denotes its performance across highly intensive and specific settings.
Due to their composition and main benefits, stainless steel valves are popular in settings with a high rust and corrosion risk. They are also able to hold their own in high-temperature applications. This is why they are highly sought after in plumbing applications.
You can find a variety of stainless steel valves through several popular vendors. But it is essential to know that they often come with a higher price tag than some other materials.
PVC Valve Brings Exceptional Performance
With its affordability, accessibility, and durability, PVC has proven its worth as a high-performance material in many commercial and residential applications. When it’s used to make valves for plumbing systems, it brings the same level of benefits to the table.
PVC valves are available through a variety of manufacturers for industrial and construction materials. Since they don’t rust or corrode, they are ideal for settings such as irrigation, wastewater, and water transfer. They also clean easily, which adds yet another positive to their use in plumbing structures.
These valves are widely available in a variety of sizes and types. They are optimal for almost every type of plumbing use, including high-temperature water settings.
Brass Valve Delivers Durability
Brass is yet another material that has corrosion resistance, even though it falls short of delivering the same performance as a PVC valve. With that being said, it allows you to have long-lasting structures in place if you use it in the right setting.
For instance, brass often breaks down with constant exposure to chemical-heavy settings. This includes plumbing for water that has a high amount of chlorine in it. This means that you shouldn’t use it in your swimming pool infrastructure.
The material is readily available in standard fixtures such as a ball valve, which is essential to almost every plumbing structure. This makes it necessary to look into the valve, its associated budget, and its overall benefits for your specific installation.
You must discuss your overall usage with an expert before selecting a valve for your infrastructure. This ensures that you can stay away from any incompatibility issues down the road.
