Shut-off valves
Discover 46 shut-off valve items and find suitable products for your area of application.
Buy shut-off valves — Guide&Tips
In the category Shut-off valves (also called ball valves) you will find 46 items for compressed air technology. Most models are made of corrosion-resistant brass and are equipped with a robust steel lever. The right choice depends on the correct inch size: it ranges from small ¼-inch connections to 2-inch variants for main lines. Before purchasing, check the thread of your compressed air hoses or manifolds – whether female thread, male thread or hose nozzle – to avoid leaks.
Typical areas of use are workshops, industrial halls and private compressor systems. A shut-off valve separates individual line sections, facilitates maintenance work and enables quick shutdown in the event of a pressure drop. Pay attention to the maximum operating pressure (e.g. 64 bar for stainless steel models) and temperature resistance. For mobile use on the compressor hose, compact ball valves with lever handle are recommended; for permanently installed compressed air networks, variants with metric or inch thread are suitable.
In addition to the pure shut-off function, the models differ in flow cross-section: full-bore ball valves offer the least pressure loss, while reduced bores are more space-saving. If you value longevity, choose stainless steel versions (e.g. V4A) for aggressive media or humid environments. Brass valves, on the other hand, are more affordable and are perfectly sufficient for most compressed air applications. You can find further details on suitable components in the category Compressed air technology.
Popular shut-off valves
The following three products cover common sizes and material variants – ideal for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable ball valve for water or compressed air.
Ball valve, stainless steel 316 – 1¼″ female thread, 64 bar
Robust water shut-off valve for high pressures, suitable for water and compressed air lines. The stainless steel housing (V4A) offers maximum corrosion resistance.
Ball valve stainless steel – 1″ female thread, 64 bar
Stainless steel 316 with female thread – ideal for main lines and industrial applications. The lever handle enables quick manual shut-off.
Ball valve ¾″ stainless steel – female thread, 64 bar
Compact ¾-inch variant for compressed air hoses and pneumatic systems. The stainless steel body also withstands aggressive media and high temperatures.
Stainless steel ball valves are particularly suitable for environments with moisture or chemicals – for example in agriculture, in workshops with water shut-off, or at compressor connections. The mentioned models with a 64 bar pressure rating are oversized for typical compressed air networks (approx. 8–12 bar), but offer reserves for industrial applications. When installing, pay attention to the correct sealing material (e.g., PTFE tape) and avoid overtightening the threads.
Frequently asked questions about shut-off valves
Which inch size do I need for my compressed air hose?
Measure the inner diameter of your hose or the existing thread. Common sizes are ¼″, ⅜″, ½″, ¾″, and 1″. Many hose couplings use ⅜″ or ½″. If you are unsure, choose a shut-off valve with female thread and a matching nipple. A valve that is too small restricts the flow, one that is too large will not fit the line. In the category Pressure hoses you will find compatible hose sizes.
Can I also use a shut-off valve for water or oil?
Yes, many shut-off valves made of brass or stainless steel are media-neutral and suitable for water, compressed air, and light oils. Pay attention to the seals: standard NBR (nitrile) withstands mineral oils, FKM (Viton) is more resistant to chemicals. For drinking water, models with appropriate certification are recommended. Stainless steel valves (V4A) are also suitable for aggressive media or saltwater. Brass valves should not be used for acidic liquids.
How do I properly install a ball valve in my compressed air line?
Before installation, shut off the compressed air and vent the line. Clean the threads and use sealant (e.g., Teflon tape or hemp). Screw the valve in hand-tight, then tighten a maximum of another half turn with a wrench – too much torque can damage the housing. Pay attention to the flow direction (usually an arrow on the housing). After turning on, check for leaks with soapy water. For lever valves, the handle should be parallel to the line in the open position.
What is the difference between a ball valve and an angle valve?
A ball valve (shut-off valve) has a full ball with a bore – a 90-degree turn completely shuts off or opens the flow. It is ideal as a main shut-off in compressed air networks. An angle valve, on the other hand, is usually designed for water installations, often has a valve spindle, and is not designed for high pressures. For compressed air systems up to 16 bar, ball valves are the first choice. Angle valves are found in sanitary engineering, not in compressed air technology.
More categories – complementary components
Adapt your compressed air system with the right connection elements. In addition to shut-off valves, connection parts and hoses play an important role for tightness and flow.
- With external thread – Nipples and fittings if you want to connect the tap directly to a hose or device.
- With internal thread – Couplings and sockets for building extensions or connecting two lines.
- With hose nozzle – Direct connection for pressure hoses without an additional coupling, particularly practical for flexible systems.
- Distributors + Sets – For setting up multiple connections or complete compressed air stations.
- Accessories – Seals, elbows, reducers and mounting tools.
- Parent category: Compressed air technology – There you will also find filters, service units and pressure regulators.
If you choose a shut-off valve with external thread, you may need a suitable nut or a hose connection. Internal thread variants can be screwed directly onto threaded nipples. For quick tool-free assembly, hose barb connections are ideal – push the hose on and secure it with a hose clamp. This prevents leaks and saves time during installation.
In brief – Shut-off valves in compressed air technology
With 46 items, this category covers the most common inch sizes (¼″ to 2″) and materials (brass, stainless steel 316). All models are designed as ball valves with steel lever and are intended for reliable use in compressed air systems. Typical applications: workshop, industry, compressor connections and pneumatic hoses. Decisive for selection are the thread type (internal/external thread or barb) and the pressure range. Stainless steel valves offer corrosion protection for humid environments; brass valves are more cost-effective and sufficient for standard air. Check compatibility with your pressure hoses and distributors to ensure a tight and durable connection.