Picking the right valve body material is the fastest way to avoid leaks, stuck balls, and premature actuator issues. This guide compares brass vs. stainless for electric (motorized) ball valves, so you can match media, pressure/temperature, and budget—without over- or under-specifying.

What changes when you change the body material?

• Corrosion resistance. Stainless (304/316) handles harsher media and washdown better than brass; 316 is preferred in chloride-rich environments (salt/brine).
  
• Cleanliness & compliance. Electric Solenoid Valves’ stainless electric ball valves uses a lead-free 304 SS body, EPDM seals, and PTFE seats. Product pages note suitability for potable-water applications; always confirm project-specific certifications and requirements.
• Weight and cost. Brass is lighter and has a lower upfront cost; stainless is more expensive but resists corrosion in harsher environments.
  
• Actuator impact. As differential pressure (ΔP) and viscosity increase, required torque rises; confirm the actuator can reliably seat and unseat the valve.
  
  

Pressure & temperature

Elecronic Solenoid Valve’s XR-series electric ball valves—both brass and stainless—carry the same pressure rating of 0–185 PSI (no minimum) and a temperature range of 35–200 °F (seat/seal dependent). For best results, choose the body material by media and corrosion resistance first,then verify actuator sizing for your worst-case differential pressure (ΔP) and viscosity to ensure reliable seat/unseat torque.

Quick picks by application

Material vs performance: comparison table

Electric actuator notes (what still matters besides body)

• Torque & sizing: Match actuator output torque to the valve’s required torque at your maximum ΔP and worst-case temperature/viscosity to ensure reliable seating and unseating.
• Duty cycle: XR actuators are rated 100% duty. Keep a ~60 s minimum energized time so the internal capacitor fully recharges for auto-return.
• Voltage & control options: Universal input 9–24 VAC/DC or 110–230 VAC with auto-detect. Available in 2-wire auto-return (XR22) and 3-wire control (XR33) configurations.
• Ingress protection: IP67 / NEMA 4 equivalent for outdoor use when installed with proper seals, cable glands, and orientation.
  
  

Where to go next

Prefer help? Tell us your media, min/max pressure and temperature, and line size—we’ll recommend the right material, seat/seal, and actuator torque (final compatibility remains the end user’s responsibility). For chemistry checks, start with our compatibility reference. 

Frequently Asked

Is brass safe for drinking water?
Use lead-free (LF) brass where potable standards apply, or choose stainless. Always verify project-specific codes and certifications.

Will stainless last longer than brass?
In harsher or chloride-rich environments, stainless typically offers better long-term corrosion resistance. In mild indoor service, brass is often sufficient and more cost-effective.

Do you offer chemical compatibility consulting?
No. We provide general guidance only and do not offer compatibility consulting or guarantees. Please confirm materials with your installer or a compatibility expert. For quick checks, use our Chemical & Material Compatibility Database.