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Multiple Choice

Brass and bronze valves are never used in systems exceeding which temperature?

Temperature limits for brass and bronze valves in service explain why these copper-based alloys aren’t used in very hot systems. Brass and bronze are softer copper alloys, and as temperature climbs they lose strength and stiffness, creep over time, and the seating surfaces and packing can degrade. That combination increases the risk of leakage, valve sticking, or failure to seal properly in high-temperature conditions. Because of these limitations, there is a practical upper limit for their use, commonly around 550 degrees Fahrenheit; exceeding that raises the chance of failure, so these valves aren’t chosen for hotter service. For temperatures beyond that, valves made from higher-temperature materials such as stainless steel or other alloys are used, with compatible seating and packing.

Temperature limits for brass and bronze valves in service explain why these copper-based alloys aren’t used in very hot systems. Brass and bronze are softer copper alloys, and as temperature climbs they lose strength and stiffness, creep over time, and the seating surfaces and packing can degrade. That combination increases the risk of leakage, valve sticking, or failure to seal properly in high-temperature conditions. Because of these limitations, there is a practical upper limit for their use, commonly around 550 degrees Fahrenheit; exceeding that raises the chance of failure, so these valves aren’t chosen for hotter service. For temperatures beyond that, valves made from higher-temperature materials such as stainless steel or other alloys are used, with compatible seating and packing.