GENERAL

Gate Valves vs Ball Valves: Which One Do You Need?

You’re having issues with your valves because you chose the wrong one to use. You need to get the problem fixed right away, but you are unsure what the true difference between gate valves and ball valves is.

Luckily, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn about gate valves vs ball valves and which one is right for you.

Gate Valves vs Ball Valves

The question, ‘are gate valves better than ball valves’, is often asked because they are so comparable. They both serve almost the same function.

However, they do differ in structural qualities and marks. A gate valve vs ball valve opens by lifting a gate out of the path of the fluid.

In contrast, a ball valve has a stem and ball that turns horizontally. Because of this, ball valves are also known as a rotational valve.

A gate valve will have a divider for the seats and the gate. This is why they get used when a straight-line flow of fluid and minimum restriction is required.

Ball valves are a type of quarter-turn valve which makes them act differently. The hollow ball used is perforated and pivoted for a reason. They can control the flow this way, so when the valve is open, the hole gets aligned with the flow.

The valve will close when the valve handle is pivoted by 90 degrees. The valve handle will be flat and level with the flow. When it is closed, the valve handle will be perpendicular.

Gate Valve Use

A gate valve will work best with petrochemical plants and refineries. This will only work if the pressure is pretty low. A parallel gate valve can work with liquids and gases that have a neutral temperature, something that is not too hot or cold.

Another type of gate valve is the full-bore through the conduit valve. This keeps solids from the body cavity. You can also use this type of valve if you have a pipe that needs scraping.

Wedge gate valves are another type that is commonly used for dealing with high and low-pressure liquids. This gate valve is also good to use for turbulent flow. It won’t be worn down as easily as other gate valves used in this process.

If you are asking yourself, ‘do I need a gate valve?’, consider these common uses before deciding.

Ball Valve Use

If you need an answer to, ‘do I need a ball valve?’, you can decide from learning about the most common uses of one. There are different types of ball valves that you can use for a variety of things.

A full-bore ball valve is perfect for a large piping system. This valve can easily work with gases and oil. This type of ball valve will aid in cleaning the system as the liquid passes through the hole.

A full-bore valve won’t be able to handle a lot of pressure as other ball valves. For smaller pipes, you should consider a reduced-port ball valve. This is also better for pipes that have a lot of pressure.

If you are looking for something to help you open and close a valve quickly, a ball valve will be your best bet.

Get the Right Valve Today

Now that you have more knowledge when it comes to gate valves vs ball valves, you can get the right one for you today. These valve types are similar in function, but have different uses you need to keep in mind.

The next article you read could teach you more important lessons. Keep coming back for more articles like this!