REF #2925
Needle Valves
Needle valves use a long, tapered needle-shaped plunger that threads into a small port, allowing very fine adjustment of flow rate. The narrow port and precise thread pitch mean needle valves can maintain a consistent, calibrated flow rate over long periods — making them well suited to flow metering, instrument lines and applications where a stable, controlled flow is more important than high volume. The Hosemaster stocks needle valves in brass and stainless steel, suitable for liquids and gases across standard industrial pressure ratings.-
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REF #2963
Needle Valve - Stainless
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£85.61 INC VAT
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Needle valves: precision flow control for metering applications
Most valves are binary — they're open or closed, and the point is to change between those two states quickly. A needle valve works differently. The job is to hold a precise intermediate position and maintain a consistent flow rate, whether that's a slow drip through an instrument line or a calibrated flow to a process component.
The design makes this possible. A fine-threaded stem and a narrow tapered tip mean that each turn of the handle produces a small, repeatable change in the flow area. You can set a flow rate and leave it — the valve won't drift or creep. That's why needle valves turn up in hydraulic test rigs, pneumatic control circuits and anywhere a calibrated flow rate is part of the process specification.
Brass is the standard material and covers most applications. Stainless steel is available for anything where chemical resistance or hygiene matters. Both are in stock across standard connection sizes. If you're replacing an existing needle valve, match the thread size, connection type and pressure rating from the existing fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a needle valve used for?
Needle valves are used where precise, repeatable flow control is needed — typically in instrument lines, flow metering, gas control and applications where a specific flow rate must be maintained over time. They're not designed for high-volume flow or rapid on/off isolation.
How does a needle valve work?
A threaded stem with a tapered needle-shaped tip moves in and out of a small seat port. Turning the stem advances or retracts the needle, changing the gap between needle and seat and therefore the flow area. Because the thread pitch is fine and the port is small, very small adjustments produce precise changes in flow rate.
What is the difference between a needle valve and a ball valve?
A ball valve is designed for isolation — fast quarter-turn on/off operation. A needle valve is designed for regulation — slow, precise adjustment of flow rate. The two are not interchangeable in most applications.
What materials are your needle valves available in?
Brass and stainless steel. Brass suits most general industrial and instrument applications. Stainless steel is used where corrosion resistance or media compatibility is a requirement.