Your Reliable Wedge Gate Valve Manufacturer

Kinvalve: Your Trusted Wedge Gate Valve Supplier

As a decade experienced wedge gate valve supplier, Kinvalve can provide all types of wedge gate valves, such as solid wedge gate valve, flexible wedge gate valve and split wedge gate valve.

Solid Wedge Gate Valve

At Kinvalve, solid wedge gate valve is equipped with a solid and robust wedge, which is too rugged to

compensate for changes in seat alignment due to pipe loads or thermal expansion.

Compared to our flexible wedge gate valve, solid wedge design is relatively susceptible to leakage.

If you choose solid wedge gate valves, they are not recommended for high temperature applications because thermal locking occurs.

This makes the gate valve unsuitable for use in piping systems subject to high fluctuations in temperature. However, this problem can be overcome by using Kinvalve’s flexible wedge gate valves.

Solid wedge gate valves are generally used in relatively lower temperature applications such as water, oil and gas service.

At Kinvalve, in order to avoid thermal locking and failure of solid wedge gate valves, you can only use them under 250 degrees Fahrenheit (121 deg C).

Kinvalve solid wedge gate valves are the most economical and always small choice. Our solid wedge gate valves are with NPS < 4 inches and generally excel in threaded end connection or flanged end with small bore.

Of course, Kinvalve as a leading manufacturer and supplier of wedge gate valve, we aim to help you and assist on all your applications under any conditions in the field, bigger sizes with higher working pressure solid wedge gate valves are also optional.

Please send us your specific requirements with details; our technical engineer team will supply you with a one-stop solution to your applications.

Flexible Wedge Gate Valve

Kinvalve’s flexible wedge gate valve is also known as resilient wedge gate valve. This flex wedge gate valve features a single piece disc with a cut around the perimeter.

You can customize wedge gate valves with different sizes, shapes and depth notches with distinct performance to meet your different needs.

The elastic design of the valve plate enhances the compensation effect when the temperature and load change, so that the valve plate can be better aligned to the seat and prevent leakage.

The flexible wedge gate valve can also reduce the friction with the valve seat and delay the wear.

At Kinvalve, flex wedge gate valves ensure you can gain the advantage that they can better adapt to misalignment caused by load and temperature changes. But you can only get this benefit if you use a large flexible wedge gate valve.

In wedge gate valves smaller than 2 inches, you will get the same result for both solid and flexible wedge. Kinvalve flex wedge gate valves are common used in steam applications.

At Kinvalve, we supply flexible wedge gate valves with NPS≥2 dimensions for better seal tightness and cost efficient reason.

Kinvalve’s flexible wedge gate valve is with simple structure and reliable. It can also produce a small amount of elastic deformation to compensate for deviations in the processing of the sealing surface to improve sealing ability.

Of course, flexible wedge gate valve also has its inherent weakness. When you use flex wedge gate valve in a corrosive liquid, the liquid will enter the wedge through the cut and store and accumulate in it for a long time, resulting in damage to the wedge. So leaking happens.

When you buy a new gate valve, no matter what type of the wedge, it works well. But over time, with wear and corrosion, you can tell what a good wedge gate valve is and what a bad wedge gate valve is.

Qualified wedge gate valve provides long service life, reliable isolation service and maintenance free.

As a leader gate valve supplier, we are always committed to improving our designs, enhancing the quality of our products, and meeting the needs of customers from all over the world.

Our skilled team always aims to provide the most suitable and cost efficient solutions to your applications.

Our extensive knowledge and experience in the manufacturing industry enable us to offer a broad range of gate valves.

At the same time, we continuously develop quality gate valves that can meet any industry standards.

If you want to find out more information about the gate valves we provide, please contact us today!

Wedge Gate Valve: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

In this guide, you will find all information about wedge gate valves such as uses, benefits, parts, working principles, and quality standards, just to mention a few.

So, if you want to learn more about the wedge gate valve, read this guide.

What is a Wedge Gate Valve?

Wedge gate valve

It is a mechanical device that uses a wedge-type1 disc moving perpendicular to the flow to start or stop fluid flow in the pipework.

This type of valve is comprised of a tapered gate that is surface-to-surface sealing.

The design of this valve features a void at the bottom when it is opened.

Also, the wedge design on this valve increases the auxiliary sealing load.

This enables metal-sealed wedge valves to restrict fluid flow both at low and high pressures.

Wedge gate valve comes in various types in terms of sizes and designs.

This makes it possible for you to choose a particular, which fits your demands.

Moreover, it is used in a variety of applications across industrial and residential settings.

How does a Wedge Gate Valve Work?

The working principle of a wedge gate valve is relatively straightforward.

This device controls the fluid’s flow by lifting and lowering the gate to open and close, respectively.

Some of the main components of this device include the body, actuator, gate, stem, seat, and bonnet.

So turning the rotation of the hand-wheel trigger of the stem, which moves the gate up or down via threads.

It requires more than 360° turn to open or close the valve fully.

Lifting the gate from the path of the flow opens the valves.

On the contrary, lowering the gate to its closed position seals the bore, leading to full valve closure.

Ideally, the relationship between the gate’s vertical travel and flow rate is non-linear.

It thus means that the most remarkable changes tend to occur near shutoff.

Notably, the high velocity of media at the partial opening of this device leads to gate and seat wear.

This, along with possible variations of the gate, reduces the valve’s overall service life.

Essentially, the purpose of a wedge gate valve is to introduce a high supplementary seating load.

It enables the metal-seated wedge gate valves to seal against high and low-pressure fluids.

How are Wedge Gate Valves Classified?

The types of designs of wedge gate valves are classified on three principal bases as follows;

1) Type of Disc

Here are the types of wedge gate valves based on disc’s design;

· Solid Wedge Gate Valve

This is the common and widely used type of wedge gate valve.

It is relatively popular among many users as a result of its simplicity and strength.

You can install a valve with a solid wedge in any orientation, and it’s suitable for almost all types of fluids.

Moreover, you can use it in a turbulent flow.

Even so, this type of gate valve does not compensate for changes in seat alignment due to pipe loads or thermal expansion.

Therefore, it is greatly prone to leakage and thermal locking, especially when subjected to high temperature and pressure applications.

· Flexible Wedge Gate Valve

This is a one-piece solid disc, which has a cut around the perimeter.

The size, shape, and depth of these cuts may vary depending on various factors.

However, a shallow and narrow cut on the wedge perimeter provides less flexibility but tends to retain strength.

On the other hand, a deeper and wider cut on wedge perimeter offers more flexibility but tends to compromise strength.

· Split Wedge Gate Valve

This design consists of two solid pieces holding on together with the aid of a special mechanism.

If one-half of the disc is out of alignment, the disc can adjust itself to the seating surface.

2) Type of Body, Bonnet Connection

This is another category used for classifying the types of wedge gate.

The types of this valve under this category include the following;

• Screwed bonnet – It is the simplest design available and commonly used for an inexpensive valve.
• Bolted bonnet – It is a relatively popular design and is usually used in various gate valves. However, it needs a gasket to seal the joint between the bonnet and body.
• Welded bonnet – This design does not require disassembly of the valve. It is comparatively lightweight than a bolted bonnet.
• Pressure-seal bonnet – It is used extensively in high temperature and high-pressure applications.

3) Type of Stem Movement

The third classification of the type of wedge gate valve is based on the type of stem movement.

Technically, there are two types of stem movement for such valves, which include the following;

· Rising Stem Wedge Gate Valve

As the name suggests, this type of stem goes up as it opens the valve and moves down to close it.

The threaded part of the stem is in contact with the flow medium.

Therefore, when you open the valve, the hand-wheel rises with the stem.

The rising stem is also known as outside steam and York (OS & Y).

· Non-rising Stem Wedge Gate Valve

In this design, there is no upward movement of the stem.

The valve disc, in this case, is threaded internally.

The disc moves along the stem like a nut whenever the stem is rotating.

In a non-rising stem design, the stem threads are exposed to the flow of the medium.

It thus implies that this design is suitable for limited-space areas to allow linear stem movement.

You can also refer to it as an insider screw wedge gate valve.

What are the Benefits of Investing in Wedge Gate Valve?

Wedge gate valve

Wedge gate valves provide several advantages when used across various applications.

It is such benefits that make it a worthy investment.

Some of the advantages of this device include the following;

1. Requires low maintenance
2. Available in a variety of designs, with each offering unique capabilities
3. Better control and shut-off features
4. Minimum pressure drop during operation
5. Suitable for applications that require high pressure and temperatures
6. Bi-directional, thus enhancing usability and user-friendliness
7. Relatively affordable
8. Back seating facility, which facilitates changing of the stem seals while the valve is under pressure.

What are the Features of an Ideal Wedge Gate Valve?

It is imperative to know the specific features that make the wedge gate valve unique.

Some of these features are as follows;

· Adopts Wedged Gate

The essence of this feature is to help in closing the gate valve more tightly and further ensuring a sealing effect.

· Has a Sealed Design

This is vital since it enables the replacement of the packing when the valve is fully opened.

The design also guarantees easy replacement of the packing in case it is damaged.

And this prevents personnel waste often caused by valve disassembly.

· Anti-collision Protection

This feature is important because it helps protect the convex surface during transportation, thus preventing damage to the valve in a collision.

Other notably, vital but optional features of this device include the following;

• Seal gate
• Equalizer
• Leak-off and packing expulsion
• Low emission packing
• Stem extension
• Smooth waterway design

What are the Main Components of Wedge Gate Valve?

Gate valve parts

A wedge gate valve consists of several components, and all play a critical role in facilitating the device’s efficiency.

However, the major components of this unit include the following;

• Valve body
• Bonnet gasket
• Hand-wheel
• Seat ring
• Stem
• Wedge
• Stem packing
• Bonnet
• Backseat

How does Wedge Gate Valve Compare with Parallel Gate Valve?

These two types of gate valves vary on different grounds as follows;

A parallel gate valve uses a flat gate between two parallel seats. On the other hand, the wedge gate valve uses two inclined seats and a marginally mismatched inclined gate.

In a wedge gate valve, a wedge-shaped disc is utilized to introduce a high supplementary seating load.  This enables the sealing of the metal-seated wedge gate valves against high and low pressures.

The parallel gate valve, on the other hand, has an inclined internal surface and parallel seats.

Another difference is that the wedge gate valve has a grove cut that allows it to sit on the seat surface effortlessly.

A parallel gate valve is forced out against seats at the point of closure. This enables it to attain tight sealing without the assistance of fluid pressure.

The wedge gate valve, in contrast, does not require any assistance to seal properly.

What is the Difference Between Wedge Gate Valve and Slab Gate Valve?

The slab gate valve comprises a single gate unit that raises and lowers between two seat rings. However, the wedge gate valve comprises a tapered gate, which is metal to metal sealing.

When a wedge gate valve is open, there is a void left at the bottom of the valve body, thus it’s not piggable.

The slab gate valve, on the other hand, has an in-built plug, which is essential in facilitating maintenance and draining of accumulated foreign materials.

Wedge gate valve is ideal for applications, which do not necessarily require strict valve size requirements and harsh conditions.

Slab gate valve, on the other hand, is suitable for oil and gas applications.

Does Wedge Gate Valve have a Specific Flow Direction?

Not really.

Ideally, a wedge gate valve is uni-directional. So you can use a wedge gate valve to control or shut off the pipework system in either direction.

And this is the reason you can install it on the system in any direction or orientation.

Generally, this is one of the features making this valve user-friendly and efficient in the on/off shutoff process.

What are the Common Applications for Wedge Gate Valves?

Wedge gate valves are used in a wide range of applications across various sectors.

Even so, this device seems to be better for applications involving slurries. The reason is that its gate can move right through the slurry.

Other than that, they are also used in numerous applications involving high viscous liquids.

Some of these substances include;

• Light grease
• Honey
• Natural gas
• Molasses
• Steam
• Heavy oils
• Gas
• Oil
• Varnish
• Non-flammable viscous liquids

Nonetheless, the common applications of this device include the following;

• Corrosive water flood lines
• Water, oil, and gas lines
• Drilling and well-treating chemicals
• Wellheads
• Cement and slurries
• Pipelines and manifolds
• Abrasive mud drilling
• Offshore applications
• Marine applications
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Processing plants
• High pressure, high-temperature steam applications

What are the Quality Standards of Wedge Gate Valve?

Wedge gate valves have several quality standards, both local and international.

The design of all applicable quality standards is to enhance the performance, safety, and efficiency of the device.

Some of the commonly used quality standards for this unit include the following;

·         ASME B16.34

ASME B16.34 is a specification, which covers pressure and temperature ratings for weld gate valves.

It also covers testing, non-destructive examination requirements, marking, tolerance, dimension, and materials for this device.

This specification allows you to comply with stipulated guiding principles surrounding wedge gate valve application.

·         API 598

The API 598 is a specification, which covers testing and inspection requirements for valve wedge gate valves.

It allows for acceptable leakage rates for both liquid and gas testing.

No visible leakage is permitted for shell and back seat tests of wedge gate valves in API 598

·         API 623

This specification covers a wide range of parameters surrounding the construction and design of the wedge gate valve.

It sets standards for minimum wall thickness, gasket and trim materials, and other design needs.

Essentially, API 623 describes criteria for wedge gate valve construction or description.

·         ASME F1508

This is a specification, which covers different parameters surrounding wedge gate valves used in steam, liquid, and gas system applications.

·         BS 1873

BS 1873 is a British standard specification for gate valves, specifically used in the petroleum, petrochemical, and allied industries.

·         GB12220

This is a Chinese standard surrounding the general construction of gate valves in regard to marking.

It describes all the necessary parameters for this device, including pressure and

How can you Maintain Wedge Gate Valve?

There are several ways you can use to maintain a wedge gate valve.

Notably, the specific maintenance techniques for this device are dependent on the particular application.

It also depends on the type of wedge gate valve.

However, some of the basic wedge gate valve maintenance methods include the following;

a) If you rarely use the valve frequently, ensure you flush it at least once a month. This helps in removing foreign particles that accumulate and dry on the inner body parts.

b) Before you carry out any form of maintenance on this valve, ensure you relieve it from the pipework pressure.

c) As a safety intervention, make sure you use the ideal engineering methods and procedures recommended by the manufacturer. It allows you to remove the valve from the pipework safely.

d) If you have to open the bonnet or access other internal components of the valve, use the right key tool.

e) Where you need to repair or replace an internal valve component, make sure you disassemble and re-assemble it in the right way. This prevents unforeseen malfunctioning or failure of the valve later on.

f) Use the recommended lubricants when lubricating the wedge gate valve.

Are Wedge Gate Valves Long-lasting?

Types of the Wedge in Gate Valve

Yes.

Most materials used in constructing wedge gate valves are relatively strong and hard-wearing.

They are resistant to various environmental, chemical, and also mechanical conditions.

Furthermore, the manufacturing process of these devices also incorporates different aspects to help in making them long-lasting.

For instance, surface coating treatment using recommended substances helps in improving the overall durability of valves.

In essence, all these combinations make it possible for the wedge gate valve to attain the ideal durability.

Nevertheless, the precise longevity of this device is dependent on the specific application conditions.

Some applications are severely harsh, thus tend to reduce the overall longevity of the wedge valve gate.

Specifically, the type of fluid flowing through the valve is a great determinant of this unit’s durability.

And this is from the perspective of the chemical composition of the fluid passing through the wedge gate valve.

Moreover, the maintenance routine on the valve also determines its longevity.

A properly maintained gate valve will last for as many years as possible.

The bottom line is wedge gate valves are generally durable if all factors are constant.

Ordinarily, they can last for more than 10 years when frequently used.

Are Wedge Gate Valves Expensive?

Not really.

The cost of wedge gate valves varies depending on a host of factors.

One factor is the type of material used for making the device.

Some materials are comparatively more expensive than others.

For instance, engineered plastics seem to be somewhat expensive than metals.

Of course, this creates the cost variance as far as purchasing the wedge gate valve is concerned.

Another variable, which determines the cost is the quantity of valves you are purchasing.

Typically, purchasing more quantity is relatively cheaper than purchasing a few quantities.

Most suppliers often provide better discounts on purchasing more quantities than vice versa.

Therefore, it makes it cost-effective if you can buy more wedge gate valves in a lump sum than purchasing single units severally.

Also, the design of the wedge valve gate determines its precise cost.

For instance, if you are considering custom designs, then you’ll pay more than when buying standard designs.

It is also the same thing when purchasing large-sized wedge gate valves.

In simple words, wedge gate valves are not necessarily expensive.

The cost is dependent on a wide range of factors as

How do you Repair a Wedge Gate Valve?

When repairing a wedge gate valve, it is important to determine the specific part you need to repair.

Since it is composed of different components, it would be ideal to ensure you carry out an appropriate procedure when disassembling the unit.

But before you repair, ensure you turn off the fluid source and detach the valve unit from the pipework system.

Dismantle the components one by one appropriately as you seek the damaged part you need to repair.

Once you find the piece evaluate and determine whether you’ll repair or replace it accordingly.

After determining, complete the right action and embark on re-assembling of the wedge gate valves.

Ensure the re-assembling is correctly done and all parts are fixed accordingly.

Then secure the valve body and re-install it back on the pipework system, then turn on the fluid source.

Notably, when repairing a wedge valve unit is always important to figure out whether the specific part is repairable.

If not, or if the component is badly damaged, consider replacing the entire valve unit.

This is essential in preventing unnecessary delays and inefficiencies that may arise from a repaired component.

Which Materials are used for Manufacturing Wedge Gate Valves?

There are numerous materials used for making wedge gate valves.

However, the common ones include the following;

• Cast steel
• Alloy steel
• Brass
• Bronze
• Aluminum
• Gunmetal
• Cast iron
• Stainless steel
• PVC
• PTFE

What Factors do you Consider when Buying a Suitable Wedge Gate Valve?

You need to be particular when it comes to purchasing the ideal wedge gate valve.

Some of the elements you need to consider when purchasing this unit include the following;

• Material – Ensure you choose a valve made of the right material, which is suitable for the specific application.

It should withstand all the possibly harsh conditions in the projected application.

• End connection – Check the end connection to confirm it is compatible with that of the pipework system.

It makes the installation process easy and the overall efficiency of the wedge gate valve.

• Pressure grade – Different wedge gate valves are designed for specific pressure ratings. Thus ensure that the particular unit you are buying fits the pressure rating of the application.
• Size – Select a valve depending on the respective pipework’s size you intend to install it on. Therefore, choose the right size that befits your application’s system.
• Durability – Undoubtedly, the conditions the wedge gate valve is subjected to makes it necessary to go for a hard-wearing unit.

Check to ensure it meets all the necessary qualities that guarantee durability.

• Corrosion and abrasion resistance –Always go for a wedge gate valve with enhanced resistance to corrosion and abrasion.

Most applications of this unit revolve around harsh and unforgiving conditions.

Some fluids have strong chemical compounds.

Therefore, a perfectly coated valve would be an ideal option to consider when buying this unit.

Can you get Custom Wedge Gate Valves?

Yes.

Many reputable manufacturers can produce custom wedge gate valves.

Of course, it is understandable that some applications require unique devices depending on the design or structure.

Therefore, you can merely inquire from your preferred manufacturer for a custom unit.

In many instances, manufacturers usually require the design prototype of the valve.

The designers and engineers will then evaluate the blueprint to determine its suitability in the respective application.

If it meets all the required standards, the manufacturer provides a timeline for the production before getting the device.

What is a Typical Turnaround time for Manufacturing Wedge Gate Valve?

This depends on various elements.

One is the specific quantity of gate valves you are ordering.

If you order more quantities, it is obvious that the turnaround time is likely to be quite long and vice versa.

Another element is the number of pending orders from other customers.

Ordinarily, most manufacturers usually fulfill orders first-come-first-served basis.

Therefore, if the number of pending orders is high, then the turnaround time is likely to take more time.

The specific design of the wedge gate valve you need is also another determinant of turnaround time.

Custom designs will, of course, take more time to manufacture than standard designs.

The former requires a lot of time to put different aspects in place hence consuming more time.

And most importantly, the guiding principles of the specific manufacturer also determine the average turnaround time.

Some companies adhere strictly to the laid down policies regarding turnaround times.

What is a Solid Wedge Gate Valve?

Wedge Gate Valve

It refers to a design of a wedge gate valve disk featuring excellent strength and unmatched simplicity.

This type of valve is commonly used in different applications of this device since it is suitable for different liquids.

Technically, you can install a gate valve with this type of wedge in each position.

Solid wedge is single-piece solid construction and practically suitable for turbulent flow.

What are the Functions of Wedge Gate Valve?

The core function of a wedge gate valve is to facilitate the introduction of a high supplementary seating load.

In essence, this allows the metal-sealed device to offer the excellent sealing ability to both low and high fluid pressure.

Technically, the function of this unit is to provide sealing ability in a fluid flow system.

How does Wedge Gate Valve compare to Ball Valve?

In principle, wedge gate and ball valve tend to perform a similar function.

However, they have different structural qualities, hence making them a bit dissimilar.

A ball valve has a stem and a ball that turns horizontally, thus also known as a rotational valve.

It is designed with a ball inside, which makes it form a quarter-turn to control fluid flow.

The ball valves open when the ball’s hollow is in line with the flow and closes when pivoted 90° by the valve handle.

Thus, ball valves are suitable for applications, which require on/off control without pressure drop.

On the other hand, the wedge gate valve opens by lifting a wedge gate out of the fluid’s path.

It has planar sealing surfaces between the gate and seats.

Thus, wedge gate valves are used in applications where the straight-line flow of fluid and minimum restriction is required.

The ball valve is more durable than a wedge gate valve, thus perform better after numerous cycles and offer reliability.

All these qualities make a ball valve a better choice for shut-off applications.

Moreover, a ball valve is a bit expensive compared to a wedge gate valve.

It also offers a tighter seal, thus less prone to leakage compared to the wedge gate valve.

Additionally, a ball valve guarantees better longevity, easier usability, and a lower failure rate than a wedge gate valve.

Is there a Flexible Wedge Gate Valve?

Yes.

It is a one-piece disc with a cut around the perimeter, which improves the ability to make changes or correct mistakes in the angle between seats.

The reduction in flexible wedge gate valves often varies depending on depth, shape, and size.

Thus shallow, narrow cut provides little flexibility but tends to retain strength.

In contrast, a deeper and wide cut leaves little material in the middle, which offers more flexibility but compromising strength.

What is the Pressure Rating of Wedge Gate Valve?

The working pressure rating of the wedge gate valve often varies depending on the size, type of material and specific application.

For instance, a 14-16” series 2500 ductile wedge gate valve made of ductile iron has a rated working pressure of 250 psi.

However, this type of wedge gate valve is suitable for backflow control, sewerage, water, and fire protection systems.

You can find other designs with relatively high or low working pressure ratings than 250 psi depending on several factors.

In short, there are many factors to consider when choosing wedge gate valves.

The best part, this guide has highlighted everything you need to know.

In case you have any questions or inquiries, contact Kinvalve now.