Manual ball valves are commonly used to operate shut-off valves, which control water flow and pressure in, for example, plumbing systems applications. Manual ball valves get their name from the metal ball inside the device, which has a hole through the middle. You can discover more in our ball valves guide.
When the valve is open, the hole is aligned with the pipes and permits flow. When it is closed, the hole is rotated perpendicular to the flow, shutting the valve off completely. The valve handle lies flat in alignment with the flow when open, and is perpendicular to it when closed, making for easy visual confirmation of the valve status. The handle can also be set in half-turn or quarter-turn positions if required, reducing the fluid flow level and pressure.
When choosing manual ball valves, pay attention to the connection type, in which they can be attached to the shut-off valve. These methods include compression, push-fitting, threaded end, and solvent cement sockets. Also, the seals, handle material and handle configuration options, for example, can the handle be mounted in both directions or is it fixed.
In some models, a ball can be operated with a screwdriver, this allows for installation in confined spaces. Manual ball valves are also differentiated by the materials they are made from, which include brass, iron, PVC, and stainless steel. The application of a manual ball valve is determined by this, for instance, a stainless-steel valve is much more capable of withstanding heat than a PVC valve.
Ball valves are extensively used in plumbing systems for a variety of applications. Ball valves provide a reliable and efficient way to control water flow, isolate sections of the plumbing system, and facilitate maintenance and repairs.