Ball valve for compressed air system

[John_in_MD]

All,
I will be installing a very simple compressed air system in my garage using a Rapidair kit. I need a couple of ball valves and a quick google search found these at Zoro tools:

http://www.zorotools.com/g/00060038/k-G1634866/

These are priced better than what I found locally at HD and Lowes and also less expensive than other on-line sources.

Any reason not to use these? If not, what would you suggest? Thanks.

 

[motormitch]

I use ones from HD because I like to be able to walk in and return something if there is a problem rather than trying to do it through the mail. Unless the savings is major, I try to buy local from bricks and mortar stores. It also helps that I get 10% off at HD and Lowes from being ex-miltary.

 

[lilredex]

Look good to me, I have used similar looking BV from PAL in the $3-4 range, without any problems. I prefer the threaded end types.

 

[scaron]

i like Zoro in general, i've bought some stuff from them a couple of times in the past and the prices have always been real good and the shipping was super fast, i totally endorse them.

 

[Major Ramifications]

I wouldn't have any issue with the one you posted.

 

[rande]

Harborfreight also has ball valves.
http://www.harborfreight.com/38-full-port-ball-valve-68255.html

 

[JimmyTheMonkey]

The Milton ball valves I buy from Northern Tool have never failed me!

 

[72Anthony]

Looks good. Unless it is for a drain, you always want to use a 'full port' valve, which this one is. A full port will have roughly the same inside diameter as the pipe, so there is much less friction loss/pressure drop.

 

[metaleltr]

All,
I will be installing a very simple compressed air system in my garage using a Rapidair kit. I need a couple of ball valves and a quick google search found these at Zoro tools:

http://www.zorotools.com/g/00060038/k-G1634866/

These are priced better than what I found locally at HD and Lowes and also less expensive than other on-line sources.

Any reason not to use these? If not, what would you suggest? Thanks.

That is only a 3/8" valve, just make sure that is what you were looking for. When I opened this thread I was expecting 3/4" or something of the like.

 

[allinon72]

Apollo makes very solid ball valves.

 

[John_in_MD]

Good question about the valve size. I have the Rapidair Master kit that has the 100 ft of 1/2 tubing and a couple of outlets. I need to look closely at the fitting sizes it comes with, but I recall the push-to-lock fittings are 3/8 npt. My uses for compressed air are pretty simple -- impact gun for minor car work, hose reel for inflating tires, and an HVLP rig for finishing woodworking projects. No blast cabinet or da sander or other high CFM tools.

 

[RECox286]

Any valve you buy should have "WOG" (water, oil, gas) engraved

in the casting, whether or not it is a ball, gate, or washered valve.

Beware of some, not all, that are made overseas

Uncle Bob

 

[djjsr]

I've bought good ones and I've bought cheap ones. I've never had a problem with either. Maybe I've just been lucky.