New or replacement shutoff valves for medical gas piping systems must include which features?

• A. Quarter-turn valves
• B. Brass or bronze construction
• C. Extensions for brazing
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

In medical gas systems, shutoff valves must be quick, reliable, and compatible with the gases they control. A quarter-turn design provides rapid, positive closure with minimal effort and reduced wear on the seal, which helps ensure a true shutoff and predictable valve position during routine operation or emergencies. Using brass or bronze construction is important because these materials resist corrosion and contamination, maintain purity of the gases, and stand up to the cleaning and sterilization practices common in healthcare settings. Extensions for brazing are included to allow the valve to be connected to piping with brazed joints without subjecting the valve body to excessive heat; this supports durable, leak-tight installations and proper alignment of the connection.

Together, these features address performance, safety, and installability in medical gas piping, which is why all of them are specified as required.