
Brass ball valve for drinking water
Brass is a widely used material for ball valves in sanitary and building services. Modern brass alloys are low dezincification (DZR) and fulfil the drinking water regulations. They are inexpensive, easy to work with and perfectly adequate for many domestic installations. However, exposure to aggressive water or high temperatures can lead to corrosion or zinc leaching in the long term if a special drinking water alloy (e.g., CW617N or CW602N) is not used.
Stainless steel ball valve for drinking water
Stainless steel, especially V4A (1.4408 / 1.4571), is the more hygienic and corrosion-resistant solution for drinking water. Stainless steel ball valves are durable, resistant to aggressive media, chlorides or changing temperatures and require hardly any maintenance. They are the preferred choice in drinking water networks, the food industry and sensitive systems where purity, hygiene and durability are paramount. The disadvantage: stainless steel is more expensive to purchase.
Cast steel ball valve for gas
Steel ball valves can withstand a lot in gas pipes. They are very robust, can easily withstand high temperatures and do not rust quickly. They also last a long time and function reliably, especially at high pressure. Thanks to their precise workmanship and tight tolerances, they are absolutely leak-proof. This is why many industrial companies, where safety really counts, rely on steel ball valves - nothing wobbles.
Spheroidal graphite iron ball valve for gas
Spheroidal graphite iron ball valves (GGG40.3) are somewhat lighter in weight and usually cost less, but hardly lose anything in terms of strength for most gas applications. Spheroidal graphite cast iron can withstand pressure and impacts quite well, remains resistant to rust and is suitable for medium pressures and temperatures. So if weight, price or a little more flexibility are important, ductile iron models are a sensible choice - and they still remain leak-proof.
Why the material of the ball is important for ball valves for drinking water and gas
The material from which the ball of a ball valve is made is not a minor matter - especially when it comes to drinking water or gas, it makes a noticeable difference. This ball sits directly on the medium, so it is very important how well its material can withstand corrosion, how clean it remains and how long it actually lasts without breaking down.
A solid stainless steel ball made of 1.4408 has many advantages. It can easily withstand corrosion and high temperatures, which is particularly important for drinking water or aggressive gases. Stainless steel type 1.4404 can also withstand a lot, especially if the conditions are more relaxed. If you need something lighter - for larger ball valves, for example - you often opt for a hollow ball made of 1.4301. This takes some of the weight out, but still doesn't compromise on safety.
Brass balls, on the other hand, are particularly popular for cost reasons and are a solid choice for low pressures, especially in the water sector. They block biofilms and are easy to process. Ultimately, choosing the right ball material ensures that the ball valve remains tight, functions for a long time and complies with the specifications for drinking water - and of course also allows the gas or water in question to pass through without any problems.















