Globe Valve Vs Gate Valve: A Comprehensive Comparison

What is a Gate Valve?

A gate valve has a wedge-shaped gate (or disc) that moves vertically to control flow. The gate is usually a parallel or angled piece of solid metal designed to fit over the seating area to form a seal. When fully open, the gate is fully retracted from the flow path.

The gate is operated by a rising or non-rising stem. The increasing stem design exposes the stem to the outside of the valve, indicating the valve position, while the non-rising stem remains hidden. Gate valves have minimal flow resistance at full open, making them ideal for on/off service.

When a gate valve is in the fully open position, it provides a linear flow path with minimal obstruction, resulting in negligible pressure drop. This is very helpful in systems where flow resistance must be minimized. Gate valves are not well suited for throttling applications because they are not designed to support progressive flow regulation.

Gate valves are typically used in applications that require full flow or complete shutoff. They are used in water, oil and gas pipelines where flow needs to be completely allowed or completely blocked. They can also be used in high-pressure and high temperature usage scenarios where resistance to flow must be minimised.

A globe valve has a spherical body with an internal baffle or spacer to direct the flow of fluid. The valve consists of a removable disc (or spool) and a fixed seat through which the fluid flows in a tortuous path. The seat can be integral or separate, and the valve disc can have various designs, such as a plug or disc.

The disc or spool moves perpendicular to the direction of flow and the flow area is adjusted by changing the distance between the disc and the seat. Globe valves are designed for precise throttling and flow regulation. However, due to their internal design configuration, globe valves experience a large pressure drop when closed.

 Globe valves are designed for throttling and flow regulation. Globe valves have more complex flow paths, resulting in a higher pressure drop than gate valves. Flow is controlled by adjusting the position of the disc relative to the valve seat, resulting in precise regulation.

Globe valves are well suited for services requiring precise flow control and throttling. They are suitable for applications where frequent adjustments are required to maintain operating conditions. Application scenarios such as chemical processing, steam systems, water treatment and instrumentation.

Gate Valves:

Gate valves require periodic inspection to ensure that the gate and seat are in good condition. Maintenance is usually simple, requiring only the replacement of packings or seals in the event of a leak. However, if a gate valve is damaged or misaligned, sealing and flow problems can result.

They are usually durable in applications where they are operated infrequently. The main wear problem is the possibility of the sealing surface and gate sticking together.

Globe Valves:

Globe valves may require more frequent maintenance due to their complex internal components. Because they are usually throttled, the disc and seat may wear, requiring periodic inspection and possible replacement of parts.

Designed to withstand frequent regulating and controlling actions. Durability is affected by the quality of the seat and disc and the valve's ability to handle flow conditions.

Gate valves are ideally suited to applications that require minimal pressure drop at full opening, and the valve can be operated in either the fully open or fully closed position. They are suitable for large diameter pipelines and services where flow needs to be stopped or allowed completely. Globe valves are preferred for precise flow control and can be prioritised in applications where flow and media control is required.

This is what makes valves so fascinating, seemingly identical valves with their own individual characteristics. It's also these distinctive valves that make up a complete industrial system. If you're choosing the right valve or valve manufacturer, get to know them from this valve manufacturer's guide!