There are many different applications that require very small sizes of valves. These systems include those found in dental offices, pneumatic systems, fire suppression systems, food and beverage production and even in cleaning equipment and on agricultural equipment.
The high quality mini ball valve offers all of the features and functionality of the larger ball valves. Typically, to be considered a “mini” valve they are designed to be smaller than one inch, with options in many different configurations from one, two and three way ball valves up to those that include four and five way configurations.
Pressure Considerations
As with standard ball valves, the smaller versions are designed to be used with specific types of systems. There are some that are designed for high-pressure types of applications, while others are ideally suited for lower pressure systems.
It is essential to ensure the mini ball valve is designed to match the possible upper level of pressure in the system. Failing account for the upper possible pressure range can lead to valve failure.
Materials
The two most common materials used in the manufacturing of a mini ball valve are brass and plastics. Both are non-corrosive, with plastic offering a lightweight solution that is durable and can be used in many types of applications, including in food and beverage production, chemical processes and for mixing and sampling. There are also different types of plastics which can be used, and seals can also be selected to stand up to the given application.
Brass is a heavier valve body, which means it can often be used in more extreme types of pressure and temperature applications. Brass is usually used for water, pneumatic systems, cryogenic applications and in refrigeration and Freon types of applications. It is a highly durable material, even in temperature conditions where plastic would no longer be effective.
