Construction and Materials
Norwesco offers a range of plumbing supply products, specifically focusing on valves. While the provided context doesn't detail specific valve models, Norwesco is known for manufacturing durable and reliable components for various fluid control applications.
**Construction and Materials:**
Norwesco valves are typically constructed from robust materials designed to withstand demanding environments and ensure long service life. Common materials used in their valve manufacturing include:
* **Cast Iron:** Frequently utilized for valve bodies and bonnets in applications where high strength and corrosion resistance are paramount. Cast iron offers excellent durability and can handle significant pressures.
* **Ductile Iron:** A stronger and more impact-resistant form of iron, often employed for critical valve components requiring enhanced toughness.
* **Bronze:** A popular choice for smaller valves, internal trim components, and situations where dezincification resistance is important. Bronze offers good corrosion resistance and machinability.
* **Stainless Steel:** Used for valve bodies, discs, stems, and other internal parts in highly corrosive or sanitary environments. Stainless steel provides superior resistance to a wide range of chemicals and is a common choice for food and beverage or chemical processing applications.
* **Brass:** Often found in smaller control valves, fittings, and components. Brass offers good corrosion resistance and is easily machined.
* **Plastics (e.g., PVC, CPVC):** Certain valve types, particularly for water distribution or chemical handling, may utilize plastic materials for their chemical inertness, lightweight properties, and cost-effectiveness.
The construction of Norwesco valves generally involves:
* **Machined Components:** Precision machining is essential for creating tight tolerances in valve seats, discs, and stems, ensuring reliable sealing and smooth operation.
* **Robust Body Designs:** Valve bodies are engineered to contain the fluid under pressure and provide connection points for piping. Designs vary depending on the valve type, such as gate, globe, ball, or check valves.
* **Durable Sealing Mechanisms:** Various sealing materials, such as rubber, EPDM, or specialized elastomers, are integrated to prevent leakage and maintain effective flow control.
* **Actuation Systems:** Depending on the valve's intended use, they may feature manual handwheels, levers, or provisions for automated actuators (e.g., pneumatic, electric).
Norwesco's commitment to quality in construction and material selection ensures that their valves meet the stringent requirements of the plumbing and fluid control industries.