Brass vs. Stainless Steel Ball Valves: Which Is Better?

Stainless steel is a resilient metal that is made by combining an iron alloy with chromium and nickel. This durable material is ideal for shut-off and control applications, as stainless steel ball valves are known to be effective at resisting leaks, able to withstand a wide range of temperatures and perform well in high-pressure conditions.

Stainless steel ball valves offer a long-lasting option, even when used in highly corrosive environments; 316 stainless steel is a particularly corrosion-resistant alternative that includes more nickel than standard stainless steel, as well as the addition of molybdenum — a silvery metal with a very high melting point. This combination makes 316 stainless steel ball valves more resistant to chlorides and therefore well suited for applications in marine environments.

Ball valves can also be constructed from brass, a metal composed of copper, zinc and occasionally other metals. Brass ball valves may include small amounts of lead (often less than 2%). However, due to potential health risks posed by lead, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) only approves the use of certified lead-free brass ball valves.

The first component to fail in a metal ball valve will almost always be the soft seals. This means that in most applications a brass ball valve will last just as long as a stainless steel ball valve before it begins to leak. If your application does not require a corrosion-resistant metal, brass will offer equal longevity to stainless steel.

Additionally, brass ball valves tend to accept welding better than stainless steel, making brass a more versatile option in some industries and applications.

Because stainless steel ball valves are resistant to corrosion, high temperatures and high-pressure environments, they are frequently used in industrial processes, manufacturing and construction. Some of the most common applications for stainless steel ball valves include:

• • • Petroleum refining
    • Marine operations
    • Brewing systems

In most applications, brass ball valves will offer equal performance and longevity to stainless steel ball valves. However, in applications with very extreme pressure or temperature requirements, stainless steel or other even more durable materials may be better suited. That being said, the soft seals, typically made of P.T.F.E., will still be the weakest link. This means specialized seal materials would also be required in these extreme applications.

Brass ball valves are frequently used in residential and commercial plumbing, water wells, HVAC and many other applications. Certified lead-free brass ball valves must be used in certain applications — such as those that involve drinking water or food processing — to meet FDA regulations.

The bottom line: brass ball valves are a more economical choice as long as no highly corrosive materials are flowing through the valves.

When compared to brass ball valves, stainless steel ball valves hold up better in corrosive environments, withstand higher temperatures and pressures and pose no health risks when used in food and beverage applications.

However, brass ball valves are less costly and offer more versatility in processes that require welding. Both ball valve options can provide the right solution when used under appropriate conditions.

If you’re not sure which ball valve to select for your next project, contact an expert at Gemini Valve today, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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