Rating of the best manufacturers of ball valves for water supply for 2022

Ball valves are one of the types of valves. The role of the locking element in structures of this type is played by a metal ball. The devices have a long service life and do not require regular maintenance.
The main distinguishing feature is the minimum time required to shut off water or gas. And due to the small overall dimensions, they are installed in places where the use of standard valves is impossible due to limited space.

Pros and cons of installing ball valves

Shut-off ball valves are reliable and easy to operate. As well as:

• in case of emergency, turning off the water is a matter of a few seconds;
• high rates of tightness and reliability;
• a simple design is a guarantee of a long service life, since there is simply nothing to break;
• high wear resistance during active operation;
• compactness;
• acceptable cost;
• design feature allows you to use the device even with high viscosity of the coolant.

Ball valves have few disadvantages:

• temperature restrictions. Products are not applicable as shutoff valves at a liquid temperature in the pipeline above 200 degrees (for some specimens - up to 150 degrees);
• the need for regular "rotation" in order to avoid the appearance of salt deposits "sticking" of the ball;
• high torque for devices with a cantilever handle. This is not very convenient if the pipe is located close to the wall. In this case, it is better to choose products with a butterfly handle.

Also, the disadvantages include the occurrence of water hammer in the heating system when the tap is quickly opened.

Selection Tips

Since there are a lot of Chinese products in stores, both high-quality and outright fakes, the choice of valves should be approached responsibly.

Before buying, it is worth determining the diameter of the pipe on which the device will be installed and the type of threaded connection (internal or external).

High-quality devices are supplied complete with a passport, which indicates: warranty period, product number, material and installation instructions. Savings on shut-off valves can lead to significantly higher repair costs, for example, in the event of a ball valve failure.

The ball valve must turn freely enough.If you need to make significant efforts to rotate, it is better to refuse the purchase.

Also, do not buy products with a handle made of plastic. With frequent use, over time, the handle will begin to scroll.

Another important point is the indicators of conditional and working pressure. The first one should be higher. If equal values ​​​​are indicated in the technical specifications, serious damage is possible during operation in the event of a sharp jump in pressure in the water supply system.

Also worth paying attention to:

Appearance

The metal should have a uniform luster, without streaks and sagging. All parts are symmetrical, the coating is without cracks and chips, the same wall thickness of the case. Marking is clear, with easily distinguishable and readable letters. A sign of a fake is a dull or cloudy outer coating.

Type of metal

Brass - the most common and affordable. Ideally, the brass marking is CW617N. Such products are heavy in weight, the threaded walls are thicker. It is also worth noting that faucets made of silumin, an alloy of aluminum and silicon, are much cheaper than brass counterparts. But at the same time they are characterized by increased fragility. From exposure to hot water quickly destroyed. They are used as shut-off valves for systems that do not provide for high pressure and only for cold water. You can determine the silumin device by its appearance - poor coverage, uneven seams. Also, silumin products are distinguished by a characteristic silver color.

Many people advise this method of checking ball valves: remove the top nickel layer with any sharp object. The problem is that this can only be done after the purchase. After all, it is unlikely that someone in the store will allow you to scratch and spoil the goods.Therefore, you need to purchase valves from trusted sellers or directly from official representatives of the manufacturer.

Steel - made of carbon steel, they are distinguished by high performance, resistance to mechanical stress. For the price - more expensive than brass.

Specifications

Depending on the purpose for which the crane is purchased, pay attention to the manufacturer's recommendations:

• if the water temperature does not exceed 150 degrees, and the pressure is 40 bar, brass devices are suitable;
• at temperatures up to 200 °C, pressures up to 160 bar - steel;
• for the installation of heating and cold water systems - cast iron.

Although recently, experts recommend replacing cast-iron fittings with steel. Since at a higher cost, cast iron products in terms of technical characteristics are no different from steel counterparts.

ball valve

Should be perfectly smooth, without scratches and damage. High-quality gates are made of brass with subsequent chrome plating.

A fake is easy to recognize by the characteristic matte color of the coating. You can also check the metal with a magnet. If it attracts, it means that the manufacturer saved money and used electrical steel, which is susceptible to corrosion. As a result of constant contact with water, the valve will quickly rust and fail.

Top Water Pipeline Ball Valve Manufacturers for 2022

To buy a device that will last a long time, sometimes it is not enough just to come to the store and purchase the first model that comes across. First, you should study all the ratings and reviews.This review is compiled on the basis of expert opinions in the field of shut-off equipment installation, as well as direct users who have already used ball valves from leading companies in their experience.

RM

The Chinese company for the manufacture of locking mechanisms RM has confidently conquered the Russian market. Ball valves, which differ in budgetary cost, undergo strict control at all stages of production. In particular, this is an electronic check for the detection of defects and compliance with specifications. For the manufacture of parts, only high-quality raw materials are used that meet all the requirements of GOST. Thanks to these measures, RM products serve for a long time and practically do not break.

The advantage of ball valves and fittings from Chinese manufacturers is that they easily fit different types of plumbing systems, so buyers do not have to look for compatible parts for a long time. Due to the nickel coating of the brass faucet, repeated overlapping of water has practically no effect on its condition. The model attracts many consumers with the fact that, in order to close or open the water, you need to turn the tap 180 degrees.

• budget cost;
• the product is not subject to corrosion;
• there are models with flange connection, which are often used for industrial purposes;
• the company produces ball valves without threads (they are great for welding).

• short service life compared to other manufacturers;
• a small number of models that can be used in everyday life;
• a number of devices made of propylene are characterized by a tendency to mechanical breakdowns.

Oventrop

Ball valves from the manufacturer Oventop are often distinguished into a separate group among locking mechanisms.They are in stable demand in the Russian market. This can be explained by the fact that there are usually no complaints about the quality of German products. Oventop products can meet the highest demands.

Devices from a German manufacturer are distinguished from other companies by the fact that the manufacturing is based on a unique technology for applying a nickel layer, which makes the faucet body especially resistant to various damages. Thanks to this, taps from Oventop have a long service life, are characterized by reliable mechanisms and withstand water pressures up to 25 bar. High-quality seals also contribute to impeccable tightness and at the same time do not reduce the amplitude of the change in water pressure. The positive characteristics of German ball valves include double-sided threading, a long operating time of up to 50 thousand cycles and comfort for the consumer.

• there are models with an extended flywheel;
• it is easy to understand what position the lever is in;
• zero probability of marriage allows buyers to be sure that they do not have to return products;
• short body, thanks to which you can install equipment in a hard-to-reach place.

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• too small number of turns makes it difficult to connect pipes;
• when the valve is half-open for a long time, dirt accumulates on its ball, and the parts lose their tightness.

Gekon

This company has long established itself as one of the best manufacturers of valves. Gekon factories are based in Russia and Italy, and joint production allows us to produce goods that meet the highest quality standards.

The enterprises are distinguished by their own research laboratory and high-tech equipment. Thanks to this, the quality of ball valves is constantly improved and always meets the needs of consumers. The product range from Gekon is characterized by a wide range of various shut-off mechanisms, among which you can find ball valves for water supply systems. They have a low price, which makes them incredibly popular among Russian consumers.

Ball valves from a Russian-Italian manufacturer attract with high compatibility with pipes of different diameters. They are also perfect for any heating system. If Gekon products were used during the installation of the water supply, there is no doubt that it will last a long time without requiring repair. Each model is individually packaged. The warranty period for ball valves from Gekon is also impressive, it is 5 years.

• you can find different models, both with internal and external threads;
• chrome plating contributes to corrosion resistance and an attractive appearance;
• there are devices with classic pipes, as well as with "American";
• wide application in the production of European technologies.

• high price;
• only one color of levers - red;
• quality may vary depending on the place of manufacture.

Itap

The Italian company Itap is known for its products in the plumbing market. Ball valves of its production withstand increased water pressure and have an increased level of corrosion resistance. All taps and pipeline fittings are made of brass pressed at elevated temperatures - over 700°C.This guarantees the exceptional strength of all parts and the preservation of all characteristic qualities over a long service life. The main detail is that the locking ball is made of chrome-plated brass, the sealing rings are made of Teflon. Teflon seals absolutely exclude leakage and provide reliable fixation.

Ball valves manufactured by Itap are able to withstand temperature fluctuations in the range from minus 20 to 150 degrees and are not afraid of exposure to most chemical compounds. The manufacturer's assortment includes ball valves of various modifications, depending on the application. Itap surpasses many similar companies in some respects:

• since 1995, the company's products have been marked with an international quality mark;
• the company's plumbing is sold in more than 100 countries around the world;
• automation of production completely eliminates the possibility of marriage;
• The company's catalog contains the availability of spare parts and components for all types of devices: household and industrial.

• levers are painted only red;
  all products have a small selection of diameters for connecting pipes.

Stout

Stout has many years of experience in the production of sanitary ware. Its products meet the highest requirements of the consumer, while having democratic prices. Any heating or plumbing system, even of extreme complexity, can be assembled using a variety of faucets, fittings and other components of Stout. All products intended for the arrangement of water heating systems are in accordance with Russian standards and have international certificates.

All ball valves and accessories have a high level of strength, are made of special types of food-grade brass, which guarantees the safety of drinking water consumption. Locking devices withstand a water pressure of 50 bar and have a guaranteed period of flawless operation up to 50 years.

• swing arms in black and red;
• full bore models are presented in the product catalog;
• a wide range of spare parts offered;
• all handles have devices that allow sealing devices;
• There are angled and straight designs.

• sleeve valves are too small levers;
• the quality of the product may vary depending on the manufacturer, as the product is also produced outside of Italy.

Bugatti

The Italian company Bugatti has been manufacturing pipeline, shut-off and control valves for more than ten years and represents a wide range of plumbing equipment. For the consumer, a well-known manufacturer offers components for installing not only water supply systems, but also heating and gas supply systems. All products of the company are reliable and safe in operation, tests have been repeatedly carried out, designs are constantly being improved. Products are able to withstand increased water pressure and water hammer.

In order not to fall for the tricks of scammers and not accidentally buy a fake, you need to carefully consider the insert of the tap - on branded products it is polished and shines like a mirror. Each part of this manufacturer has a company logo and the name of the country of manufacture. The increased demand for all Bugatti products is due to a combination of high quality and price, the ability to resist the corrosion process.

• comfortable wide handles;
• full bore models;
• the presence of the name of the manufacturer on all products;
• reliable connection of parts.

• too high cost;
• there are too many counterfeit products.

Honeywell

One of the most popular and sought-after manufacturers of sanitary products is Honeywell. Founded back in 1904, today the company has a wide range of water filters, valves, climate systems in its assortment. Automatic equipment manufactured by this company is successful in creating heating and water supply systems not only in domestic, but also in large-scale industrial projects. Branded plumbing equipment is adapted to various climatic conditions, is reliable and durable. Honeywell products are also successfully sold on the Russian market.

For high-quality and long-term operation of plumbing and heating systems, taps, fittings and other components should be purchased only from reliable and trusted manufacturers who have been working in the plumbing market for a long time. This will protect against leaks, flooding and other troubles. Automatic water supply through the plumbing system is provided by an electric ball valve from this manufacturer. All manufactured parts and finished products have a quality guarantee, are protected from water leakage and its consequences.

• ball valves are made of pure brass;
• sealing parts are made of high quality materials;
• the ability to use devices over a wide temperature range
  country of origin - USA.

• limited set of diameters;
• All products have only external threads.

F.I.V.

The Italian manufacturer F.I.V., which manufactures water taps directly in Italy, rightfully ranks among the most reliable. Marriage in production is practically eliminated, thanks to the full automation and modernization of all production lines. All products of the company are of very high quality. The company has its own research laboratory, which allows to constantly improve existing models and release a new product with improved consumer characteristics.

All components for the water supply system, including ball valves, are made of high quality German brass with a low zinc content. This makes the products reliable and safe in operation and serves as a guarantee of a long service life. The Chinese manufacturer often does not give such guarantees. The originality of the product can be checked by a special company engraving.

• cranes are issued with an external and internal carving;
• levers are painted in two colors;
• the walls have an additional thickening;
• the summer version of the ball valve has a curved cast gooseneck.

• in the range only devices of manual type;
• models with "American" have a high cost.

FAR

Another Italian manufacturer that is popular in the plumbing market. In its assortment there is a huge selection of components for a wide variety of heating and plumbing systems. The FAR enterprise strictly observes all technological processes and exercises control over the testing of finished products. All products of the company comply with international requirements and have the appropriate certificates.

Plumbing parts and ball valves are made from special brass alloys that have passed an independent examination for compliance with USA - NSF 61. All products have a guaranteed long service life.
With a variety of mounting and connecting options, water ball valves are easily combined with standard pipes. In the FAR catalog there are models of faucets with built-in filters or thermometers, ideal for any heating system.

• quality control is carried out at all stages of production;
• there are basic fittings for plumbing systems and premium;
• availability of own laboratory for creation of new models;
• certificates confirming the quality of products.

• high price of all products;
• uncomfortable short levers.

Valtec

The Italian company Valtec is relatively young, but has already announced its products. The domestic consumer is happy to use Valtec equipment, thanks to its highest quality. For Russia and other countries of the former Union, a special product is made, taking into account climatic features. The range of the company is quite diverse, the prices are quite democratic, which attracts both owners of private households and industrial developers.

For the production of its products, the company uses the highest quality materials and the latest technology. The manufacturer gives a guarantee period of 10 years for ball valves, which once again underlines the reliability of Valtec.

• ball models have a wide range;
• handles are painted in two colors, allowing you to indicate the direction of the water supply;
• there are angular designs of ball valves;
• Polymers with a high level of wear resistance are used as sealants.

• the impossibility of replacing the ball and seal in the seat;
• The cost of the company's products is too high.

For high-quality and long-term operation of plumbing and heating systems, taps, fittings and other components should be purchased only from reliable and trusted manufacturers who have been working in the plumbing market for a long time. This will protect against leaks, flooding and other troubles.