Which valve you use on an irrigation line depends on pipe diameter, connection type, pressure and installation location. A ball valve and a butterfly valve can substitute for each other, but each has different strengths.
Ball Valve
It contains a ball with a bore and opens and closes with a quarter turn. It seals well and is widely used on small and medium diameter lines. Sistem Vana manufactures PP body ball valves with plastic or metal handles in sizes from 1/2" to 4"; the ratchet ball line valve covers Ø50–Ø110.
Butterfly Valve
In a butterfly valve, a disc inside the pipe rotates to open or shut off the flow. Because it is light and economical in large diameters, it is preferred on main lines. Sistem Vana butterfly valves range from ratchet-connection Ø63–Ø160 models to 2 1/2"–6" models with an extension stem for underground use.
What to Look For When Choosing
- Pipe diameter: Ball valves stand out at small-diameter points, butterfly valves on large-diameter main lines.
- Connection type: Choose the one that fits your line from ratchet, threaded or clamp-coupled models.
- Installation location: Underground lines use a butterfly valve with an extension stem.
- Frequency of use: At points that open and close often, a model with a sturdy, easy-to-use handle makes your job easier.
Quick Summary
In general, a ball valve is more suitable at small diameters and where positive shut-off is needed, and a butterfly valve on large-diameter main lines. The final choice depends on your line's pressure and flow values. You can see our products with sizes and codes on the ball valves and butterfly valves pages, and send us your line details through the quote form.
