The use of plastic valves, particularly those made of polypropylene (PP), has dramatically increased across all industries. These valves are durable, resistant and can stand up to a wide range of fluid temperatures and fluid types.
Many people see polypropylene valves as a specialty or a specialized type of product. However, the advantages of the material make these valves a great option for standard fittings and system configurations as well as for customized valves for specialized applications.
To understand why these valves are quickly replacing the traditional metal and alloy valves, take a closer look at the benefits and value in polypropylene valves.
The Advantages of Polypropylene
There is a host of benefits to the use of polypropylene. This is a material that is able to withstand both heat as well as cold fluids. The material has a melting range of 320 to 331 degrees Fahrenheit so that it can tolerate most industrial applications.
This is a material that is highly resistant to corrosive materials. It is also resistant to virtually all types of organic solvents with the exception of very strong oxidants. The of this type of plastic is also ideal for resistance to abrasion, which can be a problem when solids or semi-solids are flowing through valves made of other materials.
The choice of polypropylene valves ensures smooth interior wetted areas of the valve. Add to this the lightweight nature of the valves and the simplicity of installation, and it is easy to see the increasing popularity.
While all of these issues are key benefits to choosing PP valves, perhaps the biggest for most Original Equipment Manufacturers and industrial construction contractors is still the low cost. Low cost, coupled with a long-life cycle, makes these valves a prime consideration for an increasing number of applications.
