PVC true union ball valves are a versatile valve. They allow fluid to flow through when in the "on" position and completely stop it when in the "off" position; all it takes is a 90-degree turn of the handle! The word "ball" comes from the semi-spherical shape of the inside of the valve. This causes the pipeline pressure to decrease gradually and saves the insides of the valve from damage that can be caused by fluid hitting against a flat surface. "True union" is a term that means this valve has multiple parts. The central body of true union ball valves can be unscrewed and removed from a pipeline, eliminating the need to completely disassemble a pipeline for routine valve maintenance and cleaning.
These valves have a great number of practical applications, from fire safety to gas and oil transportation. Practically any job that requires starting and stopping flow can be improved by adding a ball valve, and the true union design makes maintenance easy.
1. Irrigation Systems
One of the most common uses of PVC valves is for drip irrigation systems. Often, these systems are placed over a large backyard garden and used to water a variety of different plants and vegetables. With no valves, all of the different produce would receive the same amount of water. If the irrigation is positioned in rows, one over each type of plant or vegetable, a true union ball valve can be placed right at the beginning of each row. This means that water flow can be cut off from certain rows when they do not need watering. This helps customize and increase the amount of control you have over your irrigation system and garden.
2. Sprinklers and Hose Extensions
Many PVC projects attach a hose to a sprinkler or some kind of hose extension. These projects are extremely useful for maintaining a lawn or making fun sprinklers for kids to play with, but can be inconvenient. Walking to and from the spigot to turn on and off water can be a hassle! One application for true union ball valves is to place one between a PVC hose adapter and a PVC structure. This means you can keep the water on and simply open and close the valve to let water through the system.
3. Gas Lines
Many people don't realize that ball valves can be used for gas, but as long as they are rated for WOG (water, oil, and gas), there will be no problem! One example of this is a gas line for an outdoor barbecue pit or grilling station. When building a project like this, making sure you can control the flow of gas is vital! To make sure you know how much gas you're using, you can use a true union ball valve and a flow meter. This will give you control of the gas flow and ensure none is leaking through.
4. Potable Water Systems
Recently, homemakers have been using PVC in potable (drinkable) water plumbing systems due to its low price and insulating properties. If water is supplied to a kitchen or bathroom by PVC pipes, it is important to be able to shut it on and off if necessary. One easy way to do this is to use a true union ball valve where water enters the room. This makes it easy to turn on and off water in that specific area if you are doing renovations. The true union style of the valve also makes cleaning and maintenance simple.
