In firefighting applications, component reliability is a fundamental requirement. Ball valves are widely used in fire protection installations to control water and foam flow. They must ensure precise on/off operation, tight shut-off, and consistent flow, even after long periods of inactivity.
With over than 70 years of industry experience, RuB, Inc. manufactures and supplies brass ball valves for fire protection systems, engineered to perform reliably under critical conditions and across a wide range of operational requirements.
How to choose the right ball valves for firefighting applications
Selecting the right valves goes beyond simply matching size and type. Engineers and system designers must consider operational conditions, flow requirements, and maintenance accessibility, ensuring the system will perform efficiently whenever it is needed. Valves must also provide tight sealing to prevent leaks, demonstrate long-term durability under critical conditions, and meet international safety standards, giving confidence that every component contributes to a reliable and compliant fire protection system.
Material quality and manufacturing process play a critical role in valve performance. RuB, Inc. uses certified brass bars, tested for chemical composition and mechanical properties to ensure uniform machinability and reliability. The bars are then hot forged, creating valve bodies with structural integrity, optimal grain alignment, and material density—factors that are essential for reliable operation under pressure and over time.
Sealing integrity is crucial in firefighting systems, where even minor leaks can compromise readiness during activation. RuB valves feature a two-piece body design with O-ring stem sealing, minimizing external leakage and reducing maintenance needs, particularly valuable in installations with limited accessibility. Each valve is produced under rigorous quality controls, including extended leakage testing for 24 to 72 hours and additional assessments, such as leak detection and endurance checks.
Engineered for the toughest conditions, most RuB ball valves come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring lasting reliability and top performance in demanding applications like fire protection systems. For more information on eligible models, professionals can consult the product catalogue.
Purchase UL and FM-approved ball valves for fire protection
Compliance with international safety standards is essential for fire protection systems. RuB provides UL-listed and FM-approved brass ball valves, meeting the most stringent fire protection regulations. FM (Factory Mutual) approval is commonly required for fire suppression systems, oil and gas facilities, and international projects, while UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification is widely recognized across North America for building and equipment safety.
Choosing UL/FM certified valves ensures that engineers and system designers can rely on components that meet the highest safety standards, streamlining the approval process and minimizing the risk of compliance-related delays or issues.
RuB range for firefighting applications
RuB brass ball valves are trusted in a wide range of firefighting applications across international markets. They are used in water and foam distribution lines, cooling loops in firefighting vehicles, fire hose reels, and municipal fire protection installations. Depending on system design, valves can be operated manually or with actuators for automated control.
Among RuB solutions, the S.92S NPT solid ball valve (available in sizes from 1/4" to 4") is commonly installed in cooling loops as a good CV is paramount to ensure adequate flow. For automated operation, the S.64 NPT ball valve (available in sizes from 1/2" to 4"), paired with an EA pneumatic actuator, provides fast and reliable actuation. The integrated ISO 5211 mounting flange allows the actuator to be mounted directly, without additional brackets or couplings, simplifying installation in custom firefighting vehicles and automated systems.
These are just a few examples of RuB wide range of firefighting solutions. Additional sizes, configurations, and actuation options are available to meet specific project needs. Contact RuB, Inc. today for technical support or assistance with product selection.
