Is it ok to use black vinyl tubing and brass valves?

[HealerOliver]

I would prefer to use black vinyl tubing for the AP systems I am building for sale. It makes setting up the the AP systems much more flexible and easier than using PVC.

Is there a good reason not to use it?

I also prefer to use screw type brass valves. They make adjusting the flow to grow beds easier and more precise.

With the discussion of copper pipes causing copper in the water I was wondering if the valves would leach enough copper or whatever into the water to cause harm.

What are you thoughts on these items?

Oliver

[Ravnis]

brass fittings are supposed to be a double whammy. You get both copper and zinc oxides from them. I have been using a black garden hose coiled for a solar water heater that has brass fittings. The fish seem ok now, but don't yet know what long term effect this will have. I certainly dont have enough copper to keep algea from growing on the sides of the tank.
After 2 months of use though I started to see signs of corrosion on the fittings so have removed them. They will probably be ok at first, but all bets are off when they start to corrode.

[Outbackozzie]

No brass valves, thats for sure.

Myself and quite a few others use black poly pipe, without any troubles so far.....aparently it breaks down at higher temps.

[HealerOliver]

Thanks for the info. Looks like no brass. Darn, I do like the way they operate. Now I need to find nicely operating plastic valves. Glad to see that the vinyl tubing will be ok. That will help those who purchase the systems set them up to their liking.

Oliver

[organicusrex]

The brass valves you asked about are known as gate valves. Good news, they make PVC gate valves and have been for decades. I agree, they are far more precise than ball valves which are generally used only as shut off valves. Cheers!