The Shape and Size of Fabricated Gate Valve

The Fabricated Gate Valve is widely used in industrial systems requiring robust shutoff and flow regulation. It is a type of valve that consists of a gate mechanism, which moves vertically between two seat rings to either block or allow fluid flow. What sets it apart from other valve types is that the valve body is typically welded or fabricated from sections, rather than being cast as a single piece. This design feature allows for greater flexibility in the shape and size of the valve, making it adaptable to a wide range of applications.

Shape:

The Fabricated Gate Valve typically features a rectangular or trapezoidal gate, which slides vertically in the valve body. The body of the valve may have a cylindrical or rectangular shape, depending on the design and the intended application. The body is made by welding or assembling individual components, which may include the body, bonnet, stem, and actuator parts. The gate, being flat, either slides parallel to the flow or perpendicular to the flow, depending on whether the valve is designed for isolation or regulation.

The overall shape of a fabricated gate valve is designed to ensure a low pressure drop when the valve is open and a tight seal when closed. This can be achieved by optimizing the geometry of the flow passages and the contact areas of the gate and seat.

Size:

Fabricated gate valves can vary widely in size, ranging from small valves used in domestic or low-pressure systems to large valves used in heavy industrial applications, such as oil and gas pipelines, water treatment plants, or power stations. The size of the valve is primarily determined by the pipe diameter, pressure rating, and flow requirements of the system.

Larger valves typically have enhanced sealing mechanisms to ensure that the valve functions reliably under high-pressure conditions. These valves can also incorporate different actuation methods, such as manual, electric, or pneumatic, depending on the requirements of the application.

The Parallel Slide Gate Valve is a variant of the traditional gate valve that is often used in applications where a reliable and tight shutoff is required, such as in gas, water, and steam systems. One of its significant features is its sealing method, which provides performance in terms of leakage prevention and durability.

Working Principle:

The Parallel Slide Gate Valve operates by using two parallel sliding gate plates that move in and out of the valve body to control the flow. Unlike the traditional wedge gate valve, which uses a single gate and seat to create a seal, the Parallel Slide Gate Valve has two gates that are mounted on parallel tracks, allowing both gates to move together or independently. This design helps to evenly distribute the sealing force across the entire sealing surface, improving the valve's sealing capabilities.

The gates, typically flat or slightly curved, are designed to make full contact with the seat ring surfaces when they are in the closed position. This ensures that a reliable seal is formed, preventing the passage of fluids through the valve when it is supposed to be shut off. The seal is further enhanced by the use of high-quality gasket materials that help to create a tight barrier, even in systems with high pressure or aggressive media.

Advantages:

The primary advantage of the Parallel Slide Gate Valve's sealing method is its ability to handle high-pressure systems with minimal leakage. This makes it suitable for use in industries where maintaining system integrity is crucial, such as in steam, water, and gas applications. Additionally, the design of the Parallel Slide Gate Valve allows for smoother operation, as the parallel movement of the gates ensures a more balanced and uniform seal. This reduces the likelihood of misalignment or uneven wear, which could bring about leaks or operational failure.

The sealing method is also highly durable, as the gates and seats are designed to resist wear and corrosion, even under harsh operating conditions. This increases the lifespan of the valve, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacements.