Using nitrile balls in clack valves

[RedsetterParticipant @redsetter]

Stainless balls are absolutely fine in bronze clack valves and they last indefinitely.

Edited By Redsetter on 20/05/2023 19:09:57

[SillyOldDufferModerator @sillyoldduffer]

One thing that can be done with a metal ball that Nitrile can't do, is to whack one with a hammer into the seat so it deforms to fit the ball accurately. Replace the whacked ball with a new one because it probably squished out of shape and is no longer a sphere.

Beware – I've never tried it!

Dave

Edited By SillyOldDuffer on 20/05/2023 19:18:24

[HOWARDTParticipant @howardt]

Many years ago I worked with high pressure airless paint spray units, 2500psi. These used a small check valve, the ball material depended on the paint intended to be used, either carbide or stainless steel. We used to put a steel ball in and strike it into the seat to create a perfect seal then build the check valve with a new ball. Some of our other pumps used glass balls in the check valves but these were 1/2” in diameter. Once seated properly the check valves rarely gave any trouble.

[Paul LousickParticipant @paullousick59116]

I have been using ceramic balls in the check valves in the water pump (bronze housing, shaft driven) of my traction engine for the past 5 years with no problem. (The boiler clacks use winged, taper type).

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