Angle Valve

Have you ever wondered how water from the main pipeline can reach every corner of your home—from the kitchen sink and toilet to the shower—and still be easily controlled? The answer lies in a small yet extremely important device: the angle valve.

An angle valve, also known as an angle stop valve, is an indispensable component in water supply systems and many other industries. With its distinctive shape and flexible functionality, the angle valve helps control flow, protect equipment, and optimise installation space. Let’s take a closer look at this device to better understand its vital role.

What is an angle valve?

An angle valve is an industrial valve designed with an L-shaped body, forming a 90-degree angle between the inlet and outlet of the liquid or gas flow.

Unlike conventional valves that only allow straight-through flow, angle valves help save space—especially in tight locations such as wall corners, under sinks, or behind sanitary fixtures.

Structure and Operating Principle of an Angle Valve

Structure
An angle valve has a structure similar to a globe valve, but with a redesigned valve body. The main components of an angle valve include:

Valve body: The outer casing with a 90-degree angled shape, cast from common materials such as brass, cast iron, stainless steel (inox), or plastic.
Valve disc: The most critical component, located inside the valve body, is responsible for opening or closing the flow. The disc is attached to the valve stem and moves up and down.
Valve stem: A metal rod that connects the valve disc to the handwheel or lever. When the user turns the handle, the stem moves and transmits force to raise or lower the disc.
Sealing gasket: Positioned between components to ensure a tight seal and prevent fluid leakage.
Operating mechanism: Includes a handwheel (usually wheel-shaped or butterfly-style) or a lever, allowing easy operation by the user.

Operating Principle

The operating principle of an angle valve is simple yet effective. When you turn the handle clockwise, the valve disc gradually moves downward and presses tightly into the closed position, blocking the water flow.

Conversely, when the handle is turned counterclockwise, the valve disc is lifted, creating a gap that allows the fluid to pass through. Depending on how much the handle is turned, the flow rate can be regulated accurately.

Common Types of Angle Valves on the Market

Angle valves are classified based on material, structure, and function. Below are some of the most common types of angle valves:

Classification by Material

Phân loại van góc theo vật liệu chế ạo

Brass angle valve: The most common and widely trusted type. It offers good corrosion resistance, can withstand high water pressure, and has a reasonable price.
Stainless steel (inox) angle valve: Provides superior corrosion resistance and is commonly used in special environments or industries that require high hygiene standards.
Cast iron angle valve: Highly durable and typically used in large piping systems.
Plastic angle valve: Lightweight and inexpensive, but with lower pressure resistance and durability compared to metal valves; commonly used in simple domestic water systems.

Classification by Connection Type

Based on installation method, angle valves are divided into two main types:

:

Threaded angle valve: These valves have threaded ends and are commonly used in small to medium-sized piping systems. The threaded connection allows for quick and convenient installation and removal.
Flanged angle valve: This type has separate flanges for bolting to pipes. The flanged connection is very strong, can withstand high working pressure, and is typically used in large, fixed piping systems.

Classification of Angle Valves by Usage

Phân loại van góc theo mục đích sử dụng

Firefighting angle valve: Used in fire protection systems, with a body made of cast iron or brass and painted in bright red. One end has a threaded pipe connection, while the other has a quick-connect fitting for fire hoses. Common sizes include DN50 and DN65, designed to withstand high pressure and facilitate rapid operation in emergency situations.
Domestic angle valve: Commonly found in households, typically small in size (1/2 inch) and installed under toilets, washbasins, or washing machines.
Industrial angle valve: Used in factories and industrial systems handling steam, chemicals, or oil and gas. Large in size, made from stainless steel, cast iron, or reinforced plastic, suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature, and corrosive environments.

Applications of Angle Valves in Daily Life and Industry

Thanks to their compact and convenient design, angle valves are widely used in various fields:

Applications of Angle Valves

In Domestic Water Supply Systems:
Angle valves are installed at multiple points in the home to control water flow:

At water meters: Typically installed just before and after the water meter, they allow isolation of the meter for replacement, repair, or maintenance without shutting off the entire water supply.
Behind toilets and washbasins: They enable easy water shut-off for faucet repairs, pipe replacement, or maintenance of sanitary fixtures without affecting the household’s main water system.
Under kitchen sinks: They simplify faucet repairs and pipe replacements, making maintenance more convenient than ever.

In Fire Protection Systems (PCCC):
Angle valves are installed at fire hydrants, fire cabinets, and water outlets for quick and reliable access during emergencies.

In Industrial Systems:
They are widely used in factories and plants to control the flow of liquids, compressed air, or steam in various industrial processes.

Notes When Choosing an Angle Valve

To ensure your water supply system operates reliably and durably, keep the following points in mind when selecting and using an angle valve:

Choose reputable brands: Prioritise products from well-known and trusted brands to ensure material quality and valve durability.
Select the right material: For domestic water systems, brass angle valves are the optimal choice. For special environments, consider stainless steel valves.
Check size and connection standards: Make sure the valve’s size and connection type (internal or external thread) are compatible with your pipes and other system components.
Proper installation: Correct installation ensures the valve functions efficiently while preventing water leakage, waste, and damage.

Conclusion

Though seemingly simple, the angle valve plays a crucial role in controlling and protecting the water supply system. From everyday household applications to complex fire protection systems and industrial processes, angle valves consistently demonstrate their value and necessity.

Understanding angle valves not only helps you use them more effectively but also allows you to choose the right product, ensuring a safe, stable, and long-lasting water supply system.

For further information about angle valves, please contact Bao Tin Steel at Hotline: 0932 059 176.