Invest In The Right Gate Valve
Posted on: 6 October 2018
Gate valves are utilized in many industries to help control the flow of materials through a pipeline. These specialized valves offer maximum control over fluid movement while still maintaining separation between operators and the fluids themselves.
Although most gate valves function in a similar fashion, the construction of gate valves can vary. To ensure that you have the right gate valve for your pipeline, take all factors into consideration before purchasing a new gate valve.
Determine the consistency of the materials moving through your pipeline.
The first consideration you must make when looking to purchase a new gate valve is the type of materials moving through your pipeline on a regular basis. All gate valves are equipped to cut through liquids with ease.
If you only move liquid materials through your pipeline, then you will be able to choose from a wide range of gate valves. If your pipeline contains both liquid and solid materials, you will need a gate valve equipped to handle both. Knife valves are specialized gate valves that are designed specifically to handle solids as well as liquids.
Determine which bonnet design is best.
Once you know which type of gate valve will be needed to accommodate the materials moving through your pipeline, you should consider the design of the valve's bonnet before making a purchase.
The bonnet provides a leak-proof closure for the body of the gate valve. Bonnet designs vary from one gate valve to the next. If you need to conduct frequent inspections of your gate valve to maintain efficiency and comply with government regulations, then look for a valve with a union bonnet. A bolted bonnet is best for gate valves that will need to function in high-pressure applications.
The right bonnet design will ensure that your gate valve functions smoothly over time.
Determine if you want a rising or non-rising stem.
The stem on a gate valve is the component that is responsible for raising and lowering the gate on demand. Stems come in two designs: rising and non-rising. A rising stem rises and lowers in coordination with the gate, providing you with a visual confirmation of the position of the gate valve at all times.
Non-rising stems remain fixed in position. This makes them a great option for valves that need to be installed in areas where vertical space is limited. Non-rising stems are also the best choice for gate valves that are installed below the ground's surface. Talk to a supplier, like QRC valves, for more help.
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