Though all are types of check valves, air check valves, ball check valves and fuel check valves have very specific uses and can be used in completely different applications. The check valve device's main function is to allow fluid or gas to flow through it in one direction only. And, depending on the specific application, the cost difference in air check valves, ball check valves and fuel check valves is dramatically different.

Before purchasing a check valve, know the differences between and the safety requirements of:

1. A ball check valve

2. An air check valve

3. A fuel check valve.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find ball check valves for many uses using online distributors

A ball check valve features a spherical ball and, typically, a spring. The seal, which stops the reverse flow of fluid, is tapered to the shape of the ball and the spring pushes the ball into the seal to prevent backup. Though many ball check valves are used in industrial applications such as wastewater plants and car washes, they are also used in smaller, household applications, such as bath or personal care products.

I recommend: For heavy-duty ball check valves for industrial needs, go to BallCheck.com or Bal-tec.

Get information and pricing for air check valves through automotive websites

The most common uses for air check valves remain in the automotive industry. Air check valves are usually labeled with an arrow which indicates the direction of positive flow. Air check valves are made of materials that can withstand a lot of heat, some more than 250 degrees. Air check valves that are also ball check valves are specifically manufactured to stop the flow the negative flow of air with the ball and spring design.

I recommend: Walk in or shop online with NAPA auto parts. Check valve prices online through General Air Products.

Look to aircraft suppliers and industrial check valve suppliers for fuel check valves

Fuel check valves offer safety features that most air check valve and ball check valves often do not. Since fuel check valves are meant to stop the back up of a flammable and often corrosive fluid, fuel check valves are almost always made of metal and need to be cooled by turbines in order for gaseous fuel not to become overheated.

I recommend: Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co. offers metal fuel check valves for large-scale aircraft applications. JEGS High Performance features fuel check valves and valve accessories for automotive repair and manufacturing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for industrial check valves approved by the EU -- or European Union. Not only will an EU-approved check valve guarantee that the product meets certain safety standards, but you'll know your product was purchased through common trade policies.