: I had these bookmarked after a discussion on this board probably 2 years
: ago...I think someone else found them, but they're the exact same valves
: used on commercial bags.

: If you saw some that looked better, I'm all ears--which ones?! Nobody really
: needs 80 valves at $10. If we found 20 or 30 valves that would work better
: for the same money, then it's worth looking into.

: shawn

Just browsing their website -- from the link you provided -- I got to a form where they will send out free samples -- so obiously they will do real small orders at some times. Why not just send them a dollar (or $5) and a self addressed, stamped, big mailing envelope and ask for 5 or a handful.

Beyond that, they have dozens and dozens of different valves. You linked to the 320TETx, which is very similar to their 320TEx. Someone asked about a push-pull valve (rather than a screw shut type) and I was able to find (among dozens of others) the 320AC

In fact, they have so many valves that I am a bit taxed. Their selection of valves for lifejackets alone is overwhelming.

On this board usually we approach a problem where we have to be creative in inventing new uses for existing materials, or designing or making special parts. Not so here. These people seem to have a wide variety of valves, many of which we would be happy with, and the problem we have is selecting the very best one for our needs. They give us a choice of materials -- so i would look at those valves which are made of vinyl which we can glue to our projets with a vinyl cement, or, look for valves which can be be attached by heat. Or, look for ones which can slide into a plastic tube, or look for ones which meet some other criteria.

One other thing. when they offer a price of so many dollars per thousand, usually (but not always) they want to ship in lots of even thousands. So, your order would likely be for 2000, not 1953 valves, (I can't imagine them counting out an odd number like that) and your cost would be a bit over that $250 minimum.

I think you are still a step away from placing that order. Why not call them and explain to the salesman who will likely field your call exactly what you are trying to accomplish. Let them know if you want to attach your valve directly to the float bag or paddle float -- or if you want to attach a tube to these and a fill valve would go on the tube. (what diameter tube, please?)

They will probably suggest two or three products from their product line which will serve your needs. Ask for a sample or two, build your prototypes, and let us know what works best.

Just some thoughts

PGJ