Float Valves

Controlling The Level of Liquid Since 1797

A float valve is most often used for filling water tanks, such as those found in toilets, while avoiding overflow and (in the event of low water pressure) backflow. This clever mechanism was patented in 1797 for use in steam engines.

It controls the level of a liquid by opening or closing a valve in response to changes in the liquid’s elevation. The valve is controlled by a float at the end of a lever connected to a floating body that checks the fill level. The height of the water level determines the float’s position: when the float is in a certain position, the valve opens or closes. For example, if the float is at the top, the valve is closed, but if the water level drops, the valve opens. 

A float valve, also known as a ball valve, is easily maintained, provides high-accuracy liquid level control, and has a reliable shutoff. In addition, it is not affected by water pressure. 

How A Float Valve Works

A float valve is most commonly used in flushing toilets. It’s also widely used to control the liquid level in water towers, buildings, waterworks, and other water supply pipeline systems. It’s an excellent option in high buildings for the automatic water supply system of commercial electric water boilers, heat pumps, air-conditioning cooling towers, water storage towers, water storage tanks, pools, etc.

This mechanism consists of a valve connected to a hollow, sealed float through a lever mounted near the top of the tank. The float is often ball-shaped, which is how it got its other name, ball cock. The valve is connected to the incoming water supply and is opened and closed by the lever, which has the float mounted on the end. The float rises as the water level rises (picture the toilet tank), and once it rises to a pre-set level, the valve is forced to close, shutting off the water flow.  

UBW Has The Float Valve You Need

United Brass Works has float valves in a range of sizes. Click on the links below to get specifications on the one you’re looking for. If you don’t see exactly what you need, contact us. We may be able to design a custom solution for you.