Common Types of PVC Valves and Their Uses

PVC valves are an essential aspect of countless plumbing and fluid systems, allowing for the flow of water to be managed in various ways through sealing capabilities. While such valves all perform a similar role, they can vary in their specific styles. As such, it is very important that one determines what type of valve is best for their given operations and needs, ensuring optimal performance and safety. In this blog, we will discuss PVC valves and their common variations, allowing you to have a better idea of your potential options.

Plumbing valves may be made from a number of materials based on the application in question; common examples include those made from brass, cast iron, bronze, stainless steel, alloys, and galvanized metals. To determine which materials are required, it is crucial that one gauges the potential stresses that valves may face. For example, if corrosive salt water is being transferred, then stainless steel will be needed to ensure proper integrity. Meanwhile, PVC valves are crucial for media that may rust or harm metals. PVC is also quite durable and cost-effective, making it extremely beneficial for a variety of applications like domestic irrigation, water treatment, aquariums, swimming pools, healthcare, and more.

As there are many subtypes of PVC valves, we will discuss the most common options available on the market. One such component type is the PVC ball wave, that of which is common to landscaping operations. These valves utilize a ball to restrict and permit the flow of fluids, and they are optimal in their speed and efficiency. Furthermore, they can also be useful for emergency shut-off needs if that is a need.

With PVC gate valves, on-off operations can be implemented for low-pressure flows in larger diameter pipes. It is important that gate valves are not relied on in high-pressure environments, as they can be limited in their capabilities. Despite this, their operations are fairly comparable to PVC ball valves.

If backflow is a potential issue that an application may face, a check valve is a great choice. These valves do not require any external handle for adjustments to be made, instead featuring internal elements that respond to the flow of a material. Generally, forward flow will enact force on the sealing part of the valve, allowing it to remain open. Meanwhile, any backflow will work in the opposite way, forcing the sealing part closed.

For the most precise control, a butterfly valve may be used. These valves can either restrict flow or completely prevent it, and they block media with the use of an adjustable disc. Oftentimes, these valves are used for variable control where rapid responses are desired.

While less common, PVC diaphragm valves are a potential choice. For their applications, PVC diaphragm valves best serve regulatory needs where pressure is managed. Alongside diaphragm valves, foot valves are another less common type that comes in the form of a check valve fitted with a strainer. These valves are situated at the end of a pipeline, and they can open and close with the help of a spring that is actuated as the pump switches on or off. These valves are best used when one wishes to prevent the chance of fluids draining out of the pump assembly.

Whether you require a gate valve, ball valve, butterfly valve, or any other type, look no further than National Stock Number Parts for all of your various needs. Take the time to peruse our online catalogs as you see fit, and our team is always ready to supply you with competitive quotes for your comparisons through our RFQ service. Additionally, you can always give us a call or email to directly connect with a representative, and we would be more than happy to assist you however we can! Get started today and see why so many customers continuously rely on National Stock Number Parts for all their operational requirements.