20mm Metric Double Union Ball Valve
SKU: PVC-BV-20
- Easy Maintenance: Double union design allows you to remove the valve body for cleaning without cutting your plumbing.
- Metric Precision: Sized for 20mm metric PVC pipe (approx. 0.75" OD), the standard for Reef Octopus internal assemblies.
- Full Port Flow: Engineered to provide maximum water throughput with minimal pressure drop.
- Saltwater Tough: Constructed from high-impact grey UPVC with EPDM seals, 100% safe for marine reef environments.
- Smooth Operation: Low-friction ball seats allow for easy, precise adjustment of water flow.
- Ideal For: Reactor feed lines; small return manifolds; Reef Octopus skimmer recirculating loops.
20mm Metric Double Union Ball Valve
The 20mm Metric Double Union Ball Valve is a professional-grade flow control solution designed for the precision needs of modern reef aquariums. Engineered specifically for 20mm Metric PVC pipe, this valve is a standard component for many Reef Octopus protein skimmers and specialized European filtration equipment.
The standout feature of this valve is the Double Union design. Unlike standard valves that are permanently glued in place, this valve features threaded collars on both ends. This allows the center valve body to be completely removed from the plumbing run for periodic cleaning, seal lubrication, or replacement—all without disturbing the rest of your pipework. Constructed from industrial-grade grey UPVC, it provides a significantly more robust and professional aesthetic than common white residential hardware.
Key Features
True Metric Calibration: Fits 20mm OD metric pipe—perfect for maintaining factory Reef Octopus and Maxspect systems.
Full Flow Geometry: The internal ball port is designed to minimize turbulence and maintain high velocity in small-diameter lines.
Chemical Resistance: Features high-quality EPDM gaskets and PTFE seats to ensure a leak-proof seal and smooth handle rotation over time.
Impact Resistant: Heavy-walled construction designed to handle the vibrations and environmental stresses of a reef tank sump.
Slip x Slip Sockets: Features deep sockets for a secure, permanent solvent weld to your 20mm metric pipe.
Ideal For
Precision Control: Fine-tuning the flow to calcium reactors, media reactors, or UV sterilizers.
Skimmer Maintenance: Replacing or upgrading internal 20mm valves on Reef Octopus skimmers.
Compact Manifolds: Building professional-grade distribution blocks in tight cabinet spaces.
Images shown are representative of the product family. Materials, sizes, and configurations may vary.
What’s Included:
(1) 20mm Metric Double Union Ball Valve
Specifications:
Size: 20mm
Type: Double Union (True Union)
Connection: Slip x Slip (Socket)
Body Material: Industrial Grade Grey UPVC
Seal Material: EPDM / PTFE
Compatibility: 20mm Metric Pipe ONLY
- Unscrew the two union nuts and slide them onto your 20mm metric pipe ends.
- Ensure the pipe ends are cut square and deburred.
- Solvent-weld the union sockets to the pipe ends using a high-quality PVC cement.
- Once the glue has fully cured, place the valve body between the sockets, making sure the O-rings are clean and properly seated.
- Hand-tighten the union nuts. Caution: Do not use tools to tighten; hand-tight is sufficient for a leak-proof seal.
- Test the valve handle to ensure smooth operation before introducing water pressure.
Pro Tips:
- Check Your Diameter. A 20mm metric valve will not fit 1/2" or 3/4" USA Schedule 40/80 pipe. 20mm is approximately 0.78 inches. Always verify your pipe size with a caliper before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your metric plumbing.
- Lube the Unions. Before assembly, apply a tiny amount of 100% silicone lubricant to the EPDM O-rings. This prevents the seals from drying out and makes it much easier to unscrew the union nuts for maintenance after they have been in use for several months.
- Orientation Matters. While ball valves can flow in either direction, most professionals install them so the handle points in the direction of the flow when open. This provides a quick visual reference for system status at a glance.