Importance of Using CSA-Approved Gas Ball Valves

Importance of Using CSA-Approved Gas Ball Valves

Gas ball valves can include various markings that identify certain testing and ensure quality. One of the most prominent markings is CSA or Canadian Standards Association. CSA is an organization that tests gas ball valves to ensure they meet US and Canadian standards, including NSF International (NSF), CSA Group (CSA), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and other global and North American standards.

A CSA-approved product will have a CSA logo with a “C,” “US,” or both, indicating which country’s standards the product has been tested to. While CSA certification is not mandatory, it gives consumers confidence in the performance of the ball valve product. Here, we will explore the markings on gas ball valves for indoor and outdoor use and compare UL ratings to CSA to help determine which marking you should look for in a high-performance gas ball valve product.

Indoor Ratings vs. Outdoor Ratings

CSA sets the ratings for gas ball valves, which are marked on the valve body. The ratings differ based on the country and whether the valve will be installed indoors or outdoors.

Indoor Gas Ratings

Both the US and Canada use the same ratings for indoor valves. The CSA gas ratings for indoor gas ball valves are 5G and 1/2 PSI, each of which has different applications. 5G ratings are for gas ball valves used in household piping systems, whereas the 1/2 PSI rating indicates valves used in gas-fired appliances.

Outdoor Gas Ratings

For a gas valve to be used outdoors, it must have either of the following ratings:

• CAN 3.16: A Canadian gas pressure rating of 125 PSIG for outdoor use in piping systems. For gas ball valves to be installed outdoors in Canada, they must have this rating.
• BRS125G: A US gas pressure rating of 125 PSIG for outdoor use in piping systems. For gas ball valves to be installed outdoors in the US, they must have this rating.

UL vs. CSA Ratings

In addition to CSA ratings, gas ball valves may also be marked as UL-certified. UL is a US-based organization, while CSA is Canada-based. Both certifications are well-respected and have worldwide credibility.

Although both UL and CSA ratings are internationally recognized, a UL certification only applies to the United States, whereas a CSA certification applies to the United States and Canada. Because of this, gas ball valves and other products for international export will be at a slight advantage if they have a CSA rating. Regardless of which certification you choose, they both have the required expertise, knowledge, and skill to certify gas ball valves.

CSA Approved Gas Ball Valves From RED-WHITE VALVE CORP.

Gas ball valves require CSA certification for use in combustible gas applications. The association rates gas ball valves based on country-specific requirements and application areas, and the certification is recognized by several US regulatory bodies, including ANSI and OSHA. Compared to standard untested valves, CSA-approved gas ball valves ensure optimal safety and performance.

When determining which markings to look for, it’s important to understand your application’s requirements for installation location and pressure. Look for 1/2 PSI and 5G ratings for indoor applications and CSA 3.16 or BRS125G for outdoor applications. At RED-WHITE VALVE CORP., we supply CSA-approved indoor and outdoor gas ball valves for various industrial applications. For more information, explore our CSA gas ball valves or contact us today.