Advantages & Disadvantages of Using Gate Valves

Gate valves are mainly used as a fluid-controller. These are specifically-designed to start, stop or regulate straight-line fluid stream and offers minimum flow restriction as required. Gate valve manufacturers are coming up with new specifications which improve workability in distinct industrial applications. Gate valves offer a set of both advantages and disadvantages which enhances its functioning. These are mentioned below:

Advantages of Using Gate Valves

• It offers small fluid resistance as the inner media channel of the body is straight. It flows though the valve which does not hampers the direction of the flow.
• It is an energy-efficient alternative as it consumes less power while opening or closing. This is because the movement direction lies perpendicular to the media flow direction. Hence, as compared to globe valves, gate valves save both energy and time.
• Gate valves offer an unobstructed media flow from any direction of the valve body. It does not decrease pressure which makes it suitable for pipeline where the flow direction may change.
• The overall structure length of gate valves is shorter than globe valves. The valve clack aligns with the valve body, thus making the structure length of gate valves shorter than globe valves.
• The seal functioning is quite good thus, making it less eroded while it is open.
• As compared to globe valves, the erosion of sealing surface is lighter.
• The valve body is simple and easy to operate. It features a good casting process which offers a wide range.

Disadvantages of Gate Valves

• The sealing surface is more prone to damage. While opening or closing, the gate contact with the valve seat cause friction that shortens the usage life. In case of any damage, the maintenance is more difficult.
• The opening and closing is time-consuming since one needs to fully open or close it. Gate valves require some amount of space for opening. In addition to this, due to its high dimensions, it needs more space for installation.
• The entire structure is quite complex. It generally features two sealing surfaces which makes its functioning, polishing and maintenance quite complicated. It has many components which makes maintenance and manufacturing more costly than the globe valve.

These advantages make gate valves perfectly suitable for various industrial applications. gate valve manufacturers are launching new technicalities and features that covers up the disadvantages that these valves potentially has.

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