Brass fittings for water, gas and industry: the most important differences
Brass as a material for fittings: strengths and limitations
Brass has proven itself in fittings technology for decades. It is corrosion-resistant, easy to machine, pressure-resistant and can be cleanly connected with threaded and press fittings. Nevertheless, not every brass fitting is suitable for every application. The most important differences arise from the requirements of the respective medium, the operating pressure and the applicable standards and approvals.
Brass fittings for drinking water
In the drinking water sector, hygienic requirements apply that go beyond mere tightness and pressure resistance. Valves must be made of materials that do not release any harmful substances into the water. The brass CW 617 N that HSE uses for its drinking water ball valves is approved for use in drinking water systems in accordance with the applicable regulations.
In addition, drinking water taps must be designed in such a way that there are no dead spaces in which water can collect untouched and Legionella bacteria can form. The HSE Uniwater ball valves are dead space optimized and DVGW-certified, which fulfils this requirement in a documented manner.
Brass fittings for gas
Gas has different requirements than water. Tightness must be absolutely guaranteed over long periods of time, as even the smallest leaks pose a safety risk. Gas fittings must be manufactured and tested in accordance with DIN-EN 331 and bear the corresponding marking. The brass used must be resistant to the gas in question, i.e. natural gas, liquid gas or other gas families.
HSE gas ball valves are made of brass CW 617 N and carry the pressure rating MOP 5. The UNIDUO offers a practical solution for applications in which gas and water occur together in a system: it is one of the few ball valves with double DVGW approval for both media.
Brass fittings for heating systems
In heating systems, the hygiene requirements are less stringent than in the drinking water sector, but temperature and pressure resistance play a greater role. Heating valves must be able to withstand operating temperatures of up to 90 degrees Celsius and the usual system pressures over the long term. MS 58, the brass used for HSE heating ball valves, is suitable for these conditions and also offers good mechanical properties for frequently operated valves.
The HSE heating ball valves are available in various pressure ratings and handle variants and are suitable for threaded, screw, solder and press connections.
Brass fittings in the industrial sector
In the industrial sector, the requirements vary greatly depending on the medium, pressure and temperature. Fittings can be confronted with aggressive media, high pressures or special safety requirements. Brass is suitable for many, but not all industrial applications. The decisive factor is whether the brass used is resistant to the medium in question. Other materials may be required for aggressive acids, certain solvents or very high temperatures.
Brass valves are a proven and economical choice for standard industrial applications, such as compressed air, neutral liquids or steam in the low temperature range. Technical data for the individual series can be found in the data sheets in the download area.
Conclusion: Brass fittings for water, gas and industry
Brass fittings are versatile, but not universal. If you know the area of application, the medium and the applicable standards, you will make the right choice. HSE Armaturen offers a coordinated range for drinking water, gas and heating with clear approvals and a reliable technical basis.
If you have any questions about the right fitting for your application, please do not hesitate to contact us. Contact us now.
