Use PVC Ball Valves for Better Repair

| Wednesday, December 16, 2009

PVC ball valves are valves that open when a handle or lever attached to the ball inside the valve is turned. They can be made of metal or plastic and usually have a ceramic center. Chrome-plated varieties are also available nowadays. The chrome-plated ones are more durable than the other ones. It is generally used for shutoff applications. They are durable and achieve the perfect shutoff even after years of disuse.

The variety discussed above is basically a two way valve. Three-way, T-shaped left, and the L-shaped ball right varieties are also available. These devices have a port, which is used for allowing smooth flow of the fluid. Smooth flow of the liquid occurs only when the port is in line with both ends of the device. For this to happen, the ball should have a hole in it. For its adaptability and flexibility to withstand pressures and high temperatures it is widely used in industries.

Types of ball valves

These fixtures come in different styles. Welded, three piece body, single body, top entry, and split body are the models generally used. The following types of ball valves are available in the market:

  • Trunnion ball valve: This type is generally used for bigger valves that have to withstand very high pressure. In this type of ball valve, the ball is anchored at the top and at the bottom.
  • Reduced port ball: In this type the flow area is less than the pipe size of the valve but the flow remains constant. They generally have one ball and are comparatively cheap.
  • Full port ball: This is just the opposite of the reduced port ball. In this type the ball’s hole size is similar to the size of the pipeline. The large size of the valve allows less loss of friction.
  • V port ball: As suggested in the name, this type either has a V-shaped ball or seat.
Easy usage

The PVC balls and accessories are cheap and very easy to install. They are easy to repair and can be operated by actuators or manually. Compared to the other fittings this type of fixtures does not pose any risk of fire during installation. PVC fittings are safe as they do not emit toxic fumes that may cause fire.

So when you need ball valves, opt for the PVC ones without hesitating.

Use PVC Adapters for Plumbing Purposes

| Friday, October 23, 2009

PVC is the abbreviated form of polyvinyl chloride. It is a kind of thermoplastic polymer and is widely used in drainage systems and electric wires. It is widely used in most parts of the world. Around half of the world’s polyvinyl chloride produce is used for manufacturing pipes and other fittings related to drainage. This type of fixtures is cheaper compared to other types of fittings. Such fittings are also easy to install. Therefore, it is preferred over the other types of apparatus.

Types of Adapters

Adapters are used for joining pipes. These PVC adapters come in different shapes and sizes. Some of the adapters available are as follows:
  • Downspout adapters: This device is used to connect rain gutter downspouts to underground sewer piping. It also fits over sewer drain pipes.
  • Female adapter: For this type of fixtures, Teflon thread piping is recommended. It usually links the pressure pipes to standard male ones.
  • Reducing male adapter: These devices adapt the pressure pipe to standard female ones.
  • Fitting trap adapter: As the name suggests these adapt the hubs to tubular traps in the floor or wall.
Some advantages using of PVC

The other alternatives used for manufacturing adapters are copper, cast iron, and certain other plastics. However, the first two are regarded as the main alternatives to PVC plumbing. Both copper and cast iron fixtures are difficult to install and are comparatively expensive. Plumbers working on complex tasks may find it difficult to work with these types of devices.

Polyvinyl chloride apparatus has many advantages. For instance, it is easy to install. The PVC pipes, adapters, and couplings are very easy to install. These devices are connected with a network of connectors that can be taped, glued, and screwed together. Plumbers without much experience can also install and perform basic repairing with these fixtures. Plumbers working on difficult tasks can work more freely and quickly with PVC fittings.

Fixtures of this type pose no risk of fires because fumes are not emitted when they are installed. As these fixtures are not soldered there is no risk of toxic materials corroding the fittings and causing leaks.

Thus it is always better to use these adapters when constructing or changing a drainage system for a building. To find the right adapter, you may browse through the inventories of the companies that sell these fixtures online.