A Complete Guide To Valve Tag Materials

When choosing valve tags for your facility, there is a lot to consider in terms of material.
Depending on whether your pipes contain hazardous fluids or carry steam released from pressure relief valves, the material should be taken into consideration. The wrong ones can deteriorate quickly, demanding frequent replacements and compromising safety standards.

Here is an overview of the common materials used for valve tags to help you determine the best fit for your facility.

Types of Materials You Can Find in Valve Tags

Valve tags come in a range of different materials, allowing you to choose the best suited for your needs. Some of them include:

Metal-Based Valve Tag Types:

Available in different types, like stainless steel, brass, and aluminum, metal valve tags offer great resistance to corrosion and extreme environmental conditions, and are generally more suitable for long-lasting, easy-to-read valve identification standards.

Stainless Steel:

Highly durable and reliable, stainless steel valve tags can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including temperatures up to 2700°F. This means thermal expansion is not an issue, ensuring the information remains eligible and consistent throughout. Stainless steel valves can be embossed, engraved, and stamped.

Brass:

Brass valve tags offer both durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term valve identification and regulatory compliance. They can be polished to create a mirror-like appearance or given a slightly brushed satin finish. Brass valve tags, enhanced customization and durability make them an ideal option for industrial operations.

Anodized Aluminum:

Compatible with valve identification techniques such as engraving, embossing, and color coding, anodized aluminum is a good material for valve tags. On top of that, they’re highly durable and resistant to severe temperatures, ensuring long-term use and identification. They’re also a more cost-effective option than other materials.

Polymers-Based Valve Tags:

Highly flexible and available in a range of colors, polymer-based valve tags offer durability and corrosion resistance. Some types include:

Plastic:

Plastic valve tags will usually come pre-printed with the necessary information. Plastic valve tags are ideally suited for areas with high moisture, or that may even become completely submerged in water.

Vinyl:

Offering a lightweight and durable alternative to metal, vinyl valve tags are suitable for a range of industrial applications. This includes chemical processing, manufacturing plants, and safety applications. Being a more economical option, vinyl valve tags are suitable for large-scale applications.

Organic Valve Tags:

Cost-effective and an excellent non-conductor, organic-based valve tags are suitable for large-scale applications involving hot temperatures. Common types include:

Wood Valve Tags:

Wood valve tags can be printed with ink, have labels applied, or have information etched into them. Wood doesn’t stand up to water as well as plastic or heat as well as metal. The advantage of wood is that it doesn’t transmit the heat nearly as much as metal, but it can remain strong even when quite hot.

Paper/Cardboard Valve Tags

Paper or cardboard valve tags are the least durable option but also the least expensive. Another advantage is that they can be printed off with custom information without any issues. Valves in areas with little risk of damage can use this type of tag. Another standard option is to use paper tags temporarily while waiting for a permanent option to arrive.

Which Valve Tag Material Is Best For You?

Choosing the best valve tag materials requires careful consideration. Evaluate factors such as your facility's environment, the contents of your piping system, budget, and personal preferences to choose a material best suited to your facility. Refer to resources like a guide to valve tags and remain up-to-date with the latest valve tagging standards to determine whether a specific type of material is required for valve tagging.

Stock Up On Valve Tags With Creative Safety Supply

Valve tagging is an important part of pipe marking under the OSHA General Duty Clause, making it essential to choose the right material. At Creative Safety Supply, we offer a range of valve tags in various materials, best suited for different types of industrial environments. Available in both stock and custom options.