For most water supply systems, the use of a gate valve is the most common option. This device represents the linear-motion isolation valve and delivers the critical function of start or stop of water flow.

The gate valve for water works helps in isolating particular areas of water supply network during any new installations, repair works, maintenance and even in rerouting of water flow within the pipeline. This device acts as a gate that carries out the function of closure by sliding into the flow stream.

Continue to read till the end to know more about gate valves and its applications.

Different Types of Gate Valves

Wedge-shaped Or Parallel Gate Valve

This type of gate valve features a flat, parallel-faced closing element that fits between two parallel seats. This one serves the purpose of transferring axial loads that are imposed on the wedge through the medium to the valve body.

It also helps in enabling a low friction movement in radial direction. Additionally, the parallel gate valve aids in preventing the wedge from rotating while switching between open to closed or vice versa positions.

In most water distribution systems, the application of parallel gate valves is common.

Rising Or Non-Rising Stem Gate Valve

While both rising and non-rising gate valves fall in the same category, the only thing that separates the two is the rising stem may be fixed whereas the non-rising stem may be threaded to the gate.

In a rising stem gate valve, the rotational stem rises as the valve is operated to be opened. On the contrary, the non-rising gate valve operates by up and down movement of stem threads once the valve system is rotated.

Metal Or Resilient Seated Gate Valves

Gates valves which have metal or resilient seats are categorized distinctly. While both metal and resilient fall in the same category, a few minor alterations separates the two.

The metal seated one slides toward an inverted groove of the gate valve’s body that would often operate to trap solids contained in the water. But this one fails to provide tight seal shutoff operations.

On the other hand, the resilient gate valves deliver tighter sealed shut off functions and are mostly preferred for the use in water distribution applications. In this type of valve, a wedge which is typically made of ductile iron encompasses in resilient material and offers a tighter seal.

Working Principle of Gate Valves

Gate Valves are frequently operated with the help of a handwheel, an actuator and a valve T-key (wrench). The valve is connected to a valve stem and transfers rotating energy to it.

During the opening of the gate valve, the rotational operation of the handwheel turns the threads of the stem/seat into the gate and the vice versa occurs during shut off. This energy causes the valve’s wedge to move upwards or downwards.

In cases of underground installations, an extension spindle is connected for accessing the gate valve indirectly and operating it efficiently. Typically, the installation of gate valves is done in the pipeline area where they stay open or shut longer as they need some time to transfer from one position to another.