There are numerous styles and models of valves available, of varying reliability and quality. The type of valve in the spotlight today is the ever-important gate valve. Find out what it is, how it works, and how to find a valve supply company that you can trust with your business.
What is a Gate Valve?
A gate valve, also known as a sluice valve, is a common and necessary valve with many important applications. The name gives us a clue as to how it works. It operates by lifting a barrier (a gate) that allows fluids to flow through a pipe unobstructed. When the gate is closed, fluid is prevented from flowing. Typically, this type of valve is employed in larger pipes, and can be utilized in both above-ground and underground applications. Because of their full sealing capacity, they are ideal for use in controlling the flow of thick liquid, such as oil. Unlike ball valves, they are not used for an immediate shutoff of water, and their slow operation prevents a water hammer.
There are a few different varieties of gate valves that are important to know about. First, they are categorized as having either a rising or non-rising stem. Rising stems provide a visual indicator of valve position. They can only be used above ground. Non-rising stem varieties can be used both above and below the ground, and are ideal where vertical space is limited. Another key difference is the shape of the gate itself. Gate valves can be divided into parallel and wedge-shaped, the latter being the most common.
Where is it used?
This particular valve supply system is used in many booming industries, including (but not limited to) oil and gas, manufacturing, mining, and water treatment.
What Makes for a Superior Valve Supply Company?
It can be hard to know what company to trust with such an important purchase, which is why it’s imperative that you know what makes for a superior valve supply product. When looking at gate valves in particular, there are several basic requirements that the product should meet. Here are a few things to look for:
- tight shut-off
- compact, simple design
- meets requirements of API 6A
- easy maintenance
- low pressure drop
Gate valves are an essential component of many industries, and the choosing of a reliable valve supply company is not to be taken lightly. Find one that you can trust with your business, and use your new knowledge about gate valves to inform your decision.
