6 Types of PVC Fittings and Valves
PVC valves are important in piping systems as they control the amount and rate of flow of liquid. PVC fittings have a number of applications and uses, such as making plumbing tools, constructing out-door shades, building greenhouse structures, and various kinds of furniture. Many fitting types are made out of PVC (Polyvinyl chloride); however, certain fittings are also made from metal such as stainless steel or wrought iron. PVC valves or clamps can vary in diameter and size as per the requirement of the pipes.
1. Saddle Valve
This pipe clamp is mainly used to keep pipes secure and stationary. It is a U-shaped fitting with two holes for nails at the edges so that the pipe remains in place. Saddle valves are also known as conduit clamps. A half-saddle fitting is a type of a saddle fitting that can go around a pipe and interlock it when a single screw is inserted through both its holes. Two clamps are typically secured around a heavy pipe to ensure maximum stability.
2. Snap Fitting
As the name suggests, a snap fitting is an elongated clamp that is cut into half longitudinally so that it may latch on-to a pipe. A snap fitting is unique since it connects the pipe to different kinds of materials rather than supporting the pipe itself. This valve is used to attach different kinds of materials, such as tarpaulin or shade cloth to the pipe. Snap valves come in varying lengths and diameters as per user and dimensional requirements. They are used mostly in greenhouses, outdoor-shades, or in windy areas.
3. Tee Fitting
This basic pipe fitting forms a “T” shape around a pipe, as its name suggests. A tee fitting joins two pipes such that one runs perpendicular to the other, giving the two pipes a separation of 90 degrees. It is one of the simplest kinds of fittings used in building structures and is one of the most common.
4. Elbow Fitting
This pipe fitting enables a difference of 45 degrees between the two pipes that are being connected. Some elbow valves also enable a separation of 90 degrees; however, since these only have two openings as opposed to three, they should not be confused with the 90 degrees Tees.
5. 4-way Y and 5-way Connector Pipe Fitting
These pipe fittings are ideal for connecting multiple pipes at corners or edges. They come in handy when forming well-rounded structures and reducing the need for multiple fittings. 5-way connectors, in particular, can be used for the center support of larger structures, such as greenhouses. The 4-way Y connector is different from the simple 4-way connector as the angles between the pipes are different. The angle formed between the pipes in this particular clamp is 120 degrees, therefore the name “Y”.
6. Butterfly Valve
A butterfly valve is typically used to regulate or isolate the flow of liquid through a pipe. Butterfly valves are lighter in weight and commonly cost less than other types of valves. There are many types of butterfly valves, including high-performance butterfly valve, resilient butterfly valve, and tricentric butterfly valve.
