Differences Between Gate Valve and Globe Valve

The working principles of gate valves and globe valves are distinctly different.

Many people might think that the functions of a gate valve and a globe valve are similar, but this is not the case. We can analyze their differences from the following eight points.

Design and Function:

Gate Valve: A gate valve uses a wedge-shaped gate or parallel gate that moves vertically between two seats to control the flow. The valve is designed to be either fully open or fully closed, providing an on/off function.

Globe Valve: A globe valve uses a spherical body with a plug or disk that moves perpendicularly to the seat to regulate flow. It is primarily used for throttling and flow regulation, allowing for more precise control of fluid flow.

Flow Control:

Gate Valve: Gate valves are best suited for fully open or fully closed positions, as they cannot efficiently control or throttle flow. They are generally used for applications that require minimal resistance to flow when fully open.

Globe Valve: Globe valves are designed for flow regulation and throttling. The movement of the plug allows for continuous adjustment of the flow, making them ideal for controlling flow rates.

Flow Path:

Gate Valve: The flow path in a gate valve is straight when the valve is fully open, causing minimal pressure drop and offering low resistance to flow.

Globe Valve: The flow path in a globe valve is non-linear and involves multiple changes in direction, which leads to higher friction and a higher pressure drop across the valve.

Operation Speed:

Gate Valve: Gate valves have a slower operating mechanism because the gate needs to travel vertically, and the valve typically requires multiple turns of the handwheel to open or close.

Globe Valve: Globe valves are designed for quicker operation, as the plug moves in a straight line, and only a partial turn of the stem is required for fine flow adjustments.

Applications:

Gate Valve: Gate valves are primarily used in on/off applications, such as in water, gas, and oil pipelines, where the flow needs to be fully shut off or allowed to flow freely.

Globe Valve: Globe valves are used where flow regulation is required, such as in HVAC systems, chemical processes, or steam lines, where precise throttling or flow control is essential.

Wear and Maintenance:

Gate Valve: Gate valves generally experience less wear as the gate does not stay in contact with the seat except when the valve is fully closed. However, if the valve is not maintained, the sealing surfaces may degrade over time, especially in high-pressure conditions.

Globe Valve: Globe valves experience more wear because the plug is constantly in contact with the seat, especially when used for throttling. This can lead to erosion and seat wear, but the sealing ability is better over time.

Size and Cost:

Gate Valve: Gate valves are typically larger and less expensive compared to globe valves of the same size due to their simpler construction and fewer moving parts.

Globe Valve: Globe valves tend to be smaller, more expensive, and more complex in design due to the internal flow path and the requirement for a stem, disk, and seat arrangement for flow regulation.

Pressure Drop:

Gate Valve: Gate valves typically cause lower pressure drops when fully open, as they provide a clear, unobstructed flow path.

Globe Valve: Globe valves tend to cause higher pressure drops due to the more convoluted flow path that involves multiple directional changes inside the valve body.

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