Globe valves and gate valves are popular components for flow applications in a wide range of industries. Despite working in similar processes, and helping with the control of fluids, these valves have major differences. If you’d like to read more about the difference between gate and globe valves, continue reading this handy guide from BM Engineering.
What is a globe valve?
A globe valve, also known as a throttle valve, is used to regulate the flow of media through the use of a moveable plug and stationery seat which separate two internal chambers. The plug can be screwed in to close the valve against the seat.
Globe valves are used to control or stop the flow of liquid or gas through a pipe. Globe valves get their name because of the spherical shape of their body. Two halves of the body are separated by an internal baffle.
While globe valves do exhibit higher pressure drops than other valves, they are often used where the pressure drop through the valve is not a controlling factor.
What is a gate valve?
A gate valve is a control valve that allows or stops liquids and gases from flowing through an application. Gate valves feature a clear passageway that induces minimal pressure loss over the valve. For this reason, gate valves are a popular choice for many fluid applications.
Despite their popularity, gate valves are slower than quarter-turn valves. As such, they should only be used in the fully open or closed position, and not to regulate flow.
Globe valves vs gate valve
So, what’s the difference between gate and globe valves? Regarding application, globe valves are used for applications where large changes in pressure aren’t important. Gate valves tend to be used where low-pressure drops are important.
Another difference between gate valves and globe valves is that the latter are unidirectional whereas gate valves are multi-directional.
In terms of structure, a gate valve’s construction is simple compared to the more complex globe valve. Many of the internal components of a gate valve are found on top of the body, while the components of a globe valve are found within the structure.
Globe valves operate differently to gate valves too. They’re capable of changing flow direction and flow rate, while gate valves are only capable of a complete on/off function. They should not be used to control the flow because it leads to a degradation of components.
The gate valve’s design is not suited for handling the pressure of media through a semi-open position. Globe valves are much better for this type of task and are known to be operated more often as control valves.
There is also a difference between gate valves and globe valves in terms of the price. Due to their more simplistic structure and design, gate valves are cheaper than globe valves. However, the decision to purchase a gate or globe valve doesn’t really come down to price; it’s about their use within your system.
Globe and gate valves at BM Engineering
At BM Engineering, you can find a wide range of globe valves and gate valves. We supply big-name brand globe valves at BME, including models from Valsteam and Bürkert. There are various selections available to choose from when picking a globe valve too, including 2/2-way and two-way body valves.
In terms of gate valves, there is also a great selection available. If you’d like to know more about the gate valves and globe valves available at BM Engineering, speak to an experienced and knowledgeable sales advisor today.
Contact us on 0141 762 0657 or email sales@bmengineering.co.uk for more information.
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