Ball valves direct water flow along a straight axis. A ball inside the valve that contains a hole through the center rotates 90 degrees with the turn of the valve handle. The PTFE seats keep the ball lubricated while also maintaining a watertight seal inside the valve when it is in the “off” position. When the valve is in the open position, liquid flows through with a minimal drop in pressure, because the port in the ball is a similar size to the inside diameter of the pipe.
Ball valves are available in a range of materials, but PVC is considered the most durable option. PVC is erosion and corrosion proof, making it ideal for chemical applications. PVC is quite pressure resistant, able to withstand pressures of up to 1,000 bars, and because of this these valves can be used in high-pressure situations. These valves are maintenance free, rust proof and can withstand years of disuse while still providing full functionality when needed. Their durability allows them to withstand temperatures as high as 485 degrees.
PVC ball valves range in size from 0.2 inches to 11.8 inches and come in five main styles, including three-piece valves, split body options, top entry, welded and single body units. In addition, they can have true union or three-way specialty designs. True union PVC ball valves are valves that allow for the removal of the carrier of the valve, without removing the entire valve from the pipe system, making maintenance and repair simple. Three-way valves are designed to allow the mixing of two different fluids, such as fertilizer and water, into one stream. Regardless of the type chosen, these PVC ball valves are designed to withstand years of use and deliver a solid performance every time.
Get pricing and availability on any PVC ball valve model. Contact us today with an online quote request or call 866-777-8001
How PVC Ball Valves Work
A PVC ball valve controls flow using a hollow ball positioned inside the valve body. The ball has a port through its center that aligns with the pipe when the handle is turned to the open position, allowing liquid to pass through with minimal pressure drop. A 90-degree turn of the handle rotates the ball so the port is perpendicular to the flow path, creating a watertight seal and stopping flow completely. This quarter-turn design makes PVC ball valves one of the fastest and most straightforward ways to shut off a pipeline.
Types of PVC Ball Valves We Carry
- True Union Ball Valves are our most popular style for commercial and industrial use. The true union design features removable union ends on both sides of the valve body, allowing the carrier (the center section containing the ball, handle, and seats) to be taken out of the pipeline for cleaning, inspection, or replacement without cutting pipe. We carry multiple true union lines including the Flui-PRO Series 2, Flui-PRO PRO SERIES, Georg Fischer Type 375, Georg Fischer Type 546, Spears TU 2000, Sanking, and Cepex. Available in sizes from 1/2" through 6" with socket (ANSI) and threaded (NPT) end connections. Select models come with both socket and threaded ends included. The Georg Fischer Type 546 is also available with flanged ends in sizes 2-1/2" and up and offers both manual and actuated options.
- Compact Ball Valves are single-piece valves designed for applications where space is limited. They offer the same quarter-turn operation as true union valves but in a smaller, lighter body. Compact ball valves are commonly used in beverage dispensing, measurement and control systems, pool and spa plumbing, and applications involving the transfer of gases. Available with socket ends.
- 3-Way Ball Valves are designed for mixing, diverting, or redirecting flow between three ports. Available in L-port and T-port configurations. The T-port can connect two or three ports together, while the L-port connects the center port to either side port. These are commonly used in applications that require blending of media, balancing flow rates, diversion, or recirculation.
Sizes, Connections, and Specs
- Sizes: 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2", 2", 2-1/2", 3", 4", and 6" (availability varies by brand and style).
- End connections: Socket (ANSI) for solvent cement welding and threaded (NPT/FIPT). Many true union models ship with both socket and threaded ends included. Flanged ends are available on select Georg Fischer models in larger sizes.
- Seal materials: PTFE ball seats are standard across all models. O-ring seals are available in EPDM (standard, suitable for water and general service) or Viton (for chemical and solvent applications).
- Pressure ratings: True union ball valves are rated up to 150 PSI at 73°F. Ratings decrease at elevated temperatures. PVC is suitable for service temperatures up to 140°F.
- Certifications: Select models are NSF 14 listed for use in potable water systems.
- Compatibility: PVC true union ball valves are compatible with both Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC pipe systems.
Common Applications
- Water treatment and distribution
- Chemical processing and mixing
- Pool, spa, and aquatic systems
- Irrigation and landscaping
- Food and beverage processing
- Laboratory and life science systems
- Industrial process control
- Pump and equipment isolation
Brands We Carry
- Flui-PRO offers two lines: the Series 2 for cost-effective commercial use and the PRO SERIES for heavier industrial applications. Both feature PVC construction with PTFE seats and EPDM o-rings.
- Georg Fischer is one of the premier names in industrial piping. The GF Type 375 is a full-port, compact-body valve suited for water treatment and aquatics. The GF Type 546 is their top-of-the-line valve for chemical process, food and beverage, and industrial applications, with manual and actuated options.
- Spears manufactures the TU 2000 series true union ball valve, a reliable choice for commercial and industrial piping systems.
- Sanking true union ball valves are NSF 14 listed and offer an excellent balance of quality and value for budget-conscious projects. Available with socket or threaded ends.
- Cepex true union ball valves are widely used in pool, aquatic, and water treatment applications.
Why Buy PVC Ball Valves from Commercial Industrial Supply?
We stock one of the broadest selections of PVC ball valves available online, with multiple brands and styles to match nearly any application and budget. Our product specialists have years of hands-on experience and can help you select the right valve type, size, and seal material for your system. We offer wholesale pricing for contractors and return quotes within one business day.
Are you ready to buy or need assistance selecting the correct products? If so, speak with one of our experienced product specialists by calling (866) 777-8001 or complete our easy to use Price Quote Form!