In domestic installations, pipes often run concealed inside walls or partitions. In these cases, recessed valves allow a shut-off point to be installed within the wall itself, leaving only the operating handle visible. This provides convenient access to open or close the water supply without leaving the valve body exposed.
What is a recessed ball valve and what is it used for?
A recessed ball valve opens or closes the flow of fluid from a body installed inside the wall. Its configuration keeps the external handle accessible, allowing the valve to be operated whenever necessary.
An Integrated Shut-Off Point in the Wall
The operating principle is based on the standard mechanism of a ball valve. Inside the valve, a perforated ball rotates to allow or stop the flow. The difference lies in the installation: the body remains concealed while the valve is operated from the outside.
This configuration is useful in installations with concealed pipes that need to retain accessible shut-off points. It also reduces the visible presence of technical components, an advantage in bathrooms, kitchens and other spaces where the finish is part of the project.
A Protected and Compact Solution
As the valve is housed inside the wall, it is less exposed to accidental impacts and other external factors that may occur during normal use of the space.
Recessed installation also prevents the assembly from unnecessarily protruding from the surface, which is particularly useful where space is limited or a more compact installation is required. This allows the shut-off point to perform its function without interfering with the surrounding environment or taking up more space than necessary.
When is it advisable to install a recessed ball valve?
Water and Plumbing Installations
In water networks with concealed pipework, the shut-off point can be positioned in an accessible location while the valve body remains recessed. It can be used in homes, buildings and other projects with concealed plumbing installations.
Another common application is system zoning. A correctly positioned shut-off point allows part of the network to be isolated when the system design requires it. Repairs or work in that section can then be carried out without necessarily affecting other parts of the network.
HVAC Systems and Multilayer Pipe
HVAC systems may also require shut-off points along concealed pipe runs. In these cases, the installation conditions, pipe layout and piping system should be checked before selecting the valve.
MT offers specific models with press-fit multilayer pipe connections. This option allows the connection method specified in projects using this type of pipe to be maintained.
Spaces Where Visible Finish Matters
In a recessed installation, the external part becomes particularly important. The valve body is concealed behind the wall finish, while the handle becomes the visible operating element.
For this reason, the choice should not be postponed until the end of the project. Wall thickness, installation depth, handle position and type of finish should be considered before closing the installation.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Valve
Choosing a recessed ball valve requires the complete installation to be assessed. The type of pipe is important, but the connection method, pipe layout, available depth and future access requirements also influence the choice.
The Pipe System and Connection Method
The connection must correspond to the system used in the project. MT offers different PN30 valves: ref. 4221 with a welding connection, ref. 4222 with a female-female threaded connection and ref. 42642 with a press-fit multilayer connection.
The choice depends on how the network has been designed. A threaded installation, a welded connection and a press-fit multilayer system use different installation methods, so the valve should be selected according to the technical requirements of the system.
The Pipe Layout and Installation Space
Two projects using the same type of pipe may require different solutions. The position of the pipes, changes of direction and available internal space all affect installation.
For this reason, MT offers recessed valves with different configurations to adapt to each installation. In multilayer systems, for example, ref. 42642 features a straight configuration, while ref. 46642 has a U-shaped configuration. Its geometry provides additional options when the pipe layout requires a different configuration.
Installation Depth and Access to the Handle
A finished wall may include different coverings and thicknesses that alter the distance between the valve body and the visible surface. This point should be checked before installation.
MT handles feature an adjustable-height system with a reversible cylinder, allowing their position to be adapted to different installation depths. The system provides an adjustment range of 20 to 50 mm, extendable up to 65 mm depending on the configuration.
How to Adapt the Handle and External Finish
The handle of a recessed ball valve affects both everyday operation and the final integration of the valve into the space. MT offers several compatible options across its range of recessed valves.
Lever Handle, Round Handle or Concealed Handle
The range offers three configurations: lever handle, round handle and concealed handle. The models are available in chrome and black finishes, providing additional options for matching the visible part of the valve to the finish of the space.
Indicators, Escutcheons and Adaptation
Each handle includes three colour indicators: blue, red or neutral (chrome or black), depending on the finish. This option facilitates the visual identification of hot and cold water according to the requirements of the installation.
MT handles feature a Ø70 mm metal escutcheon, and Ø95 mm replacement versions are also available.
For more demanding configurations, MT also offers the brass extension/adapter ref. 4230 for recessed valves.
How to Choose the Right Recessed Ball Valve
The right recessed ball valve should match the pipe system, connection method and actual space available in the project. Accessibility and finish are also key factors that should be considered before installation.
A Choice Based on Installation Conditions
Before selecting the valve, it is advisable to consider all the factors that directly affect its integration and subsequent use:
- Compatibility between the pipe system and connection type: welded, female-female threaded or press-fit multilayer.
- Pipe layout and available internal space, especially when a U-shaped configuration makes the pipe arrangement easier.
- Final depth after coverings and finishes have been installed, ensuring comfortable operation from the outside.
- Handle type, visible finish and any required adaptation components according to the installation conditions.
Once these factors have been defined, the MT range allows different connections and configurations to be combined with compatible handles and accessories.
MT Solutions for Recessed Ball Valves
The MT range of recessed ball valves offers different configurations to adapt to both the pipe system and the installation requirements of each project. It is available with threaded, welding and press-fit multilayer connections, as well as in straight or U-shaped configurations, expanding the installation options according to the pipe layout and arrangement.
The assembly can also be customised with different handles and finishes, with silver and black options and different operating designs, including lever handles, round handles and concealed handles.
The range is completed by specific accessories, such as the extension, which facilitates handle adjustment when the recessed installation depth or final wall finish requires it.
This allows MT to combine connection type, configuration, handle, finish and accessories to create the most suitable solution for each installation.
