Composite Air Release Valve Advantages

What Is a Composite Air Release Valve?

A composite air release valve is manufactured using high-strength, engineered polymers instead of metal. These advanced plastics are reinforced with additives to improve durability, chemical resistance, and performance under pressure.

They are lightweight, corrosion-proof, and specifically designed to meet the demands of modern water distribution and irrigation systems.

Key Advantages of Composite Air Release Valves

1. Corrosion Resistance

• Immune to rust, scaling, and chemical attack.
• Ideal for aggressive water chemistry, chlorinated networks, and fertigation systems.
• Unlike ductile iron, no coating or lining is required for protection.

2. Lightweight Design

• Easier to transport, handle, and install compared with metal valves.
• Reduces structural stress on pipelines and fittings.
• Lower shipping and handling costs.

3. Cost Efficiency

• Typically lower initial cost than stainless steel alternatives.
• Long service life reduces replacement cycles, improving overall value.
• Maintenance savings — no re-coating or lining needed.

4. Chemical & UV Resistance

• Resistant to fertilizers, wastewater, and chemicals common in irrigation and treatment plants.
• UV-stabilised materials provide durability in outdoor installations.

5. Smooth Operation

• Internal surfaces designed to resist scaling and clogging.
• Reliable small-orifice venting performance, even in variable water quality.

Typical Applications for Composite Valves

 Composite air release valves are especially well-suited for:

• Agricultural irrigation – lightweight, chemical-resistant, affordable.
• Municipal water networks – low-maintenance solution for chlorinated distribution.
• Wastewater treatment – resistant to chemical attack and scaling.
• Industrial plants – where corrosive fluids and outdoor exposure are common.

Summary

The advantages of composite air release valves lie in their lightweight design, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness, making them particularly attractive for irrigation, municipal, and chemical applications.
While stainless steel still delivers unmatched longevity and ductile iron remains a reliable budget option, composites offer a modern alternative that balances performance, durability, and affordability.
For many projects in 2025 and beyond, composites are becoming the go-to solution for managing air in pipelines efficiently and reliably.