Valves and Valve Equipment

Actuator Compatible Brass Ball Valve: Reliable Flow Control for Automation

Explore actuator compatible brass ball valves for automatic control of HVAC, water and compressed air lines: key features, actuator selection and applications.

ORFA Technical TeamUpdated: Oct 30, 20263 min read

Remote, automatic valve operation is now standard in industrial automation and especially in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems. Ball valves offer fast quarter-turn operation and good sealing. The actuator compatible brass ball valve combines these benefits with a design that accepts electric or pneumatic actuators, providing an economical automation solution for water, air and similar media.

This article covers the features of actuator compatible brass ball valves, what to consider when choosing an actuator and typical applications.

Why a Brass Ball Valve?

Corrosion resistance: Brass offers good corrosion resistance to common media such as water, air and inert gases.
Durability: Long, trouble-free service in plumbing and HVAC lines reduces maintenance needs.
Economical: A more economical alternative to stainless steel valves for small and medium threaded lines.
Compact design: The compact threaded body makes installation easy in tight spaces.

Actuator Compatible Design

Thanks to the mounting pad and stem design on top of the valve, actuator compatible brass ball valves can be paired with commonly used electric and pneumatic actuators. The valve is connected to the actuator directly or with a suitable bracket and coupling.

On/Off vs Modulating Control

On/off control: The primary use of ball valves. The actuator drives the valve fully open or fully closed according to the control signal.
Modulating control: A modulating actuator can hold the valve in intermediate positions. However, the flow characteristic of a standard ball valve is not linear at intermediate positions; for precise flow or temperature control, characterised (e.g. V-port) ball valves or control valves designed for that purpose should be used.

Tip: When selecting an actuator, define the valve torque requirement, the supply voltage or air pressure, the control signal type and the position the valve must take on power failure (whether a spring-return type is needed).

Applications

HVAC systems: Automatic on/off control of water flow in heating and cooling lines.
Water treatment plants: On/off duty on lines carrying water and mildly aggressive media.
Plumbing and irrigation: Automatic irrigation and water distribution systems.
Compressed air and inert gas lines: Remote control of air and inert gas lines.

Selection Criteria

Make sure the medium is compatible with the brass body and seal materials; choose stainless steel valves for aggressive chemicals.
Check that operating pressure and temperature are within the valve’s limits.
Choose a connection size that matches your line.
Select an actuator suited to the control mode (on/off or modulating) and the required fail position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which actuators can be fitted to a brass ball valve?

Electric or pneumatic actuators that match the valve’s mounting pad and stem size. Selection should take into account the valve torque and the control mode.

Is a ball valve suitable for modulating control?

It can be used with a modulating actuator, but the flow characteristic of a standard ball valve is not linear at intermediate positions. Characterised ball valves or control valves are better suited for precise control.

Which media should brass valves not be used with?

Brass is not suitable for aggressive chemicals or media that attack brass. Stainless steel valves should be used in such applications.

Conclusion

Actuator compatible brass ball valves provide a long-lasting, easy-to-install and economical automation solution for HVAC, water and compressed air lines. Contact our technical team for help choosing the right valve and actuator, and explore other options in our ball valves product group.

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