Gate Valves and Ball Valves are both the type of valves that act as on/off valves. They are available in various sizes, designs and materials. In fact, they are also engineered in different pressure and temperature ratings. Even though both gate valves and ball valves are used in similar environments, they have critical variations in their structures and operations.

At Dutco Tennant LLC, we are dedicated to supply a high-quality range of Gate Valves and even Ball Valves for different industrial sectors. We are exhibiting these products for the ADIPEC 2022 Exhibition which is set to start from 31st October 2022. The gate valves that shall be exhibited for the event are suited for Oil & Gas facilities.

In this blog, we compare the two valves and see which one is the right choice. Continue to read till the end to find out the differences between the two and choose the ideal one for your application.

Gate Valve

Gate Valves deliver to fully shut or strat the fluid flow through a pipeline with operational movement of lifting or lowering the solid rectangular shaped gate element inside the valve. These valves comprise a valve body, seat, spindle, disc, gland and actuator.

These valves are slower compared to the quarter-turn valves as they need more than 360° rotation to change their position from opening to closing or vice versa. The gate valves are typically operated by a manual handwheel, nevertheless, electronic and pneumatic actuators can also be used.

Ball Valve

Ball Valves have a pivoting ball that works to control the flow of fluid. The ball includes a hole or bore in it through which the media travels and its position determines whether the valve is open or shut.

Ball Valves are engineered and available with multiple openings which are referred to as ports. Two way ball valves basically have two ports that allow for basic on/off control. There are also multiple port valves that come handy when there is a requirement for diverting the media in different directions.

Unlike the gate valves, ball valves need only 90° rotation to change positions from open to close or vice versa. Therefore, they offer faster response when it comes to on/off control.

Which One Is The Right Choice?

While it may appear that the ball valve delivers better performance as it responds rapidly than the gate valve, the main point is the consideration of application requirements.

Ball valves with its fast response to shut off or open fluid flow are ideal for use in applications that demand rapid cycle speed and are frequently operated. However, this fast response may also give rise to the issue of water hammer especially in high-pressure applications.

Whereas, gate valves have a 360° rotation requirement to change the positions from opening to closing. This makes them slower responsive valves when it comes to on/off control and this is why they are used in applications that have infrequent operational needs.

If you are interested to see gate valves and ball valves up close to better understand their features and functions then make sure to visit the Dutco Tennant LLC exhibit at the ADIPEC 2022. Visitors will get the opportunity to catch the live product demonstrations that will help them achieve more product insights.