Construction and Materials
Zurn Industries, LLC offers a comprehensive range of plumbing supplies, focusing on valves, flow control, and water control solutions. The construction and materials used in their products are designed to meet the demanding requirements of commercial, institutional, and residential plumbing applications, prioritizing durability, reliability, and performance.
While specific product details vary across their extensive catalog, Zurn generally employs robust construction methods and high-quality materials to ensure longevity and efficient operation. The core of many Zurn products, particularly valves and control devices, often features:
- Body Materials:
- Bronze: A common and highly regarded material for many valve bodies, especially in potable water applications, due to its corrosion resistance, durability, and dezincification resistance.
- Cast Iron: Used for heavier duty applications and larger diameter components where strength and robustness are paramount.
- Stainless Steel: Chosen for its superior corrosion resistance, particularly in aggressive environments or where hygiene is critical.
- Engineered Plastics: Increasingly used in specific applications, offering lightweight properties and chemical resistance.
- Internal Components:
- Brass: Frequently used for internal stems, discs, and seat components due to its machinability, wear resistance, and compatibility with various fluid types.
- EPDM and NBR Rubber: Commonly used for seals, gaskets, and O-rings, providing excellent sealing capabilities and resistance to wear, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations.
- Acetal Resins: Sometimes employed for internal moving parts or components that require good wear resistance and low friction.
- Actuation and Control Mechanisms:
- Steel Alloys: Used in lever handles, gear operators, and other mechanical actuation components for strength and durability.
- Engineered Polymers: Found in some handles and covers for ergonomic design and impact resistance.
- Solenoids and Electronic Components: Integral to automated valves and water control systems, built to precise specifications for reliable electronic switching and operation.
Zurn's commitment to innovation and quality is reflected in their selection of materials and manufacturing processes. They often utilize:
- Advanced Machining Techniques: Ensuring precise tolerances for all components, leading to leak-free performance and smooth operation.
- Rigorous Testing Procedures: Each product undergoes stringent quality control checks to verify its functionality, durability, and adherence to industry standards.
- Compliance with Standards: Zurn products are designed and manufactured to meet or exceed relevant industry standards, such as those set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and NSF International, ensuring safety and performance in a wide array of applications.
The construction often incorporates features that enhance ease of installation and maintenance, such as threaded connections, flanged ends, or specialized fitting systems. For flow control and water management, Zurn products can include:
- Valves: Ball valves, gate valves, globe valves, check valves, and control valves, each constructed with materials and designs optimized for their specific function and operating conditions.
- Backflow Preventers: Essential for protecting potable water supplies, these devices are built with multiple check valves and relief mechanisms using corrosion-resistant materials.
- Water Hammer Arrestors: Designed to absorb shock and prevent damage from sudden pressure changes, these often involve piston or diaphragm designs within durable casings.
- Strainers: Used to remove debris from fluid lines, featuring robust bodies and finely woven mesh screens made from durable materials.
