Many industrial and commercial piping systems make use of a wide range of industrial valves. Some are made from plastic, but many are manufactured from cast steel or brass. Both brass and cast steel have their good points and bad, but which one should you go with? Here is a comparison of the valve materials to help you make the right choice.
Carbon Steel Vs. Cast Steel
Cast steel is not the same material as carbon steel, and the terms are not interchangeable. Both metals have carbon as an alloy, but the amounts are different. For example, carbon steel has as much as 2.1 percent carbon while cast steel’s carbon content is from .1 to .5 percent.
Both cast and carbon steels are very strong. However, cast steel has better impact resistance properties. It does not break, bend, or deform easily and is a common material for making industrial valves.
Brass Vs, Cast Steel
Cast steel is an iron alloy, but brass is made from zinc and copper. Brass is very resistant to corrosion, and this property makes it perfect for industrial valves, door hardware, and items like candlestick holders. Steel is commonly used for construction materials while brass is not.
Cost Factor
If you are concerned with cost, then you should compare costs between brass and cast steel. When you do, you may notice a large difference in prices, as steel is considerably cheaper than brass. This is an important consideration for businesses needing to cut expenses.
Corrosion Factor
Brass industrial valves are highly resistant to corrosion and rust. However, the same is not true for cast steel. Over time, cast steel may rust and corrode, and even though it costs less, you may need to consider brass because of its superior anti-corrosive properties. Talk to your industrial valve supplier about your options.