Gas Ball Valves (Gas Cocks)

A gas ball valve (gas cock) is used to shut off the flow of natural gas or liquid propane through a piping system. Gas ball valves are located near furnaces or stoves in homes with gas service. They can also be found along the main gas supply line. These valves are used to stop gas flow when maintenance or a repair is preformed.

The name ball valve derives from a sphere or "ball" strategically placed in the passageway of the valve through which fluid flows. The ball has a hole through it, by which the valve opens and closes.

How does a Ball Valve work?
When the ball valve is open, the ball is positioned so that the hole runs in the same direction as the passageway, allowing fluid to flow through the hole. When the ball valve is closed, the ball is positioned so that the hole is perpendicular to the passageway, thus obstructing fluid from flowing through. The ball's position is controlled by a handle that can be turned 90 degrees, or a quarter turn. Turning the handle 90 degrees allows one to open and close the valve. The handle and the valve's position are always in line, allowing one to easily see the valve's position.

Ball valves are durable and typically work to achieve perfect shutoff, even after years of use. For this reason, ball valves are the preferred choice for shutoff applications.

Hydrovalve gas ball valves have female threaded (IPS) connections and are available in 1/2", 3/4", and 1" sizes.