What Is a Ball Valve?
Plumbing can be a relatively complex topic considering there are a number of different types of each component. When considering valves, there may be a number of different types used in any given plumbing setup. The ball valve is one of these types, and it is seen often. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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A ball valve is a metal sphere inside of a pipe and it has a hole through the middle of it. It is attached to a handle outside the pipe.
Function
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When the handle is turned so the ball valve's hole is in line with valve ends, flow will happen. When it is perpendicular, flow will cease.
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Size
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Ball valves typically come in two sizes: the 14-inch model and the12-inch model.
Benefits
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Ball valves are used in industrial purposes because they are able to take pressures of up to 10,000 psi and temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius.
Materials
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The actual ball part of the valve is chrome-plated, though the body it sits in can be made of metal, plastic or ceramic.
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