The article provides basic information about lead brass and requirements for their structure and properties. The technology of horizontal continuous casting of brass billets for production of ball valve components is described. The results of study of structure and mechanical properties of continuously cast billets made of brass grade LS59-1 are presented. The problems that arise during the operation of ball valves made of lead brass are shown. Possible ways of solving these problems and improving the manufacturability of cast billets during hot forging and cutting are proposed.