What is the difference between PEX-B ball valve and PEX-A and PEX-C ball valves?

1. Different cross-linking methods
PEX-A ball valve: PEX-A pipes use peroxide cross-linking technology. The free radicals generated by the thermal decomposition of peroxide react with the polyethylene molecular chain to form a three-dimensional network structure, thereby improving the strength and heat resistance of the pipe. This cross-linking method makes PEX-A pipes have good high temperature resistance and creep resistance.
PEX-B ball valve: PEX-B pipes use silane cross-linking technology. Silane and polyethylene molecular chains undergo grafting reaction and form a three-dimensional network structure in the subsequent hydrolysis process. The cross-linking degree of PEX-B pipes is relatively low, but its production process is relatively simple and the cost is relatively low.
PEX-C ball valve: PEX-C pipes use electron beam cross-linking technology. The polyethylene molecular chain undergoes cross-linking reaction through electron beam irradiation. This cross-linking method makes PEX-C pipes have a higher cross-linking degree and a more uniform cross-linking structure, thereby improving the strength and temperature resistance of the pipe.
2. Differences in performance characteristics
PEX-A ball valve: PEX-A pipes have good high temperature resistance and creep resistance due to their high degree of cross-linking. At the same time, their anti-aging performance is also good, and they can be used for a long time without aging.
PEX-B ball valve: Although PEX-B pipes have a relatively low degree of cross-linking, they still have good flexibility and low temperature resistance. In addition, the production process of PEX-B pipes is simple and the cost is low, so they are used in some occasions with high cost requirements.
PEX-C ball valve: PEX-C pipes have higher strength and temperature resistance due to their high and uniform degree of cross-linking. At the same time, their anti-aging and chemical corrosion resistance are also good. However, the production equipment of PEX-C pipes is relatively expensive and the cost is relatively high.
3. Different applicable scenarios
PEX-A ball valve: Due to its excellent high temperature resistance and creep resistance, PEX-A pipes are more suitable for pipeline systems in high temperature environments, such as hot water supply systems, solar water heating systems, etc.
PEX-B ball valve: PEX-B pipes are more suitable for occasions with high cost requirements and low temperature requirements, such as household water supply pipes, floor heating systems, etc., due to their low cost and good flexibility.
PEX-C ball valve: PEX-C pipes are usually used in occasions with extremely high requirements for pipeline system performance, such as high-end residential and commercial buildings, due to their excellent performance and high cost.