The valve which controls the flow of any type of
liquid flowing through pipes is termed as gate valve. It is used in most
of the buildings and homes where there are pipes. These valves include
round handles which are seen on the bulbous section of the pipes.
Functions and Uses of Gate Valve
Gate
valve is one of the most popularly and widely used valves for domestic
and industrial purposes. This valve is specifically used to obtain
uninterrupted flow of water. Used mostly in isolated applications, this
valve is greatly preferred because once the valve is in an open
position; there is complete drop in the pressure which is due to the
retraction of the gate into the bonnet.
According to specific
designs, this valve is divided into different categories. The most
commonly used valves include the flexible wedge and the solid wedge gate
valve. There are different types of flexible wedge valves which
utilises twin disc parts which are flexible. The parallel side valve is
one of the most commonly and widely used flexible wedge valve. These
valves are prominently used in stem systems as it can withstand
expansion and contraction under varying climatic conditions

This
valve usually functions between open and closed functions. The pressure
in the pipes drops to a minimal level when the valves are opened. These
valves are typically used as the initial valves in any plumbing
section. However, the valves cannot be used to control the flow of water
in a linear style. It either operates to fully open or fully close the
flow.
A partially open gate valve can cause vibrations and
permanent damage to pipes. The seating part of the valves can also be
damaged by the fluid friction if the valves are partially opened. In
these valves, the design is specifically aimed at completely blocking
the flow or completely allowing the flow of water.
Gate Valve- The Different Types
The
rising stem and the non rising stem gate valve are the two different
types of valves commonly used in most of the places today. The rising
stem valve is identified by a threaded shaft which is rotated by a
handle fixed in the centre. The stem or the shaft rises when the handle
is rotated. It rises when the valve is opened and descends when the
valve is closed. So it is easy to identify the position of the valve by
length of shaft above.
The other variety of valve includes the
non rising stem valve which is used in places where there is space
constraint. It is mostly used in underground pipes. Rotating the handles
to the left opens the valves fully whereas rotating it to the right
closes the valves completely. The stem of the valve does not rise while
opening and closing the valve.
Another advantage of using these
valves includes the use of a single padlock to open and close the valve
whereas in the rising stem valve, two padlocks are necessary. Gate valve
is available in different varieties in many of the leading online
stores.

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