Diversity and application analysis of gate valve flow characteristics

Linear flow characteristics: simple and direct control logic
The linear flow characteristic is the most basic and common type of gate valve. Under this characteristic, there is a direct linear relationship between the valve opening and the flow rate, that is, whenever the valve opening increases by a certain proportion, the flow rate will also increase by the same proportion accordingly. This characteristic makes the design of the control system relatively simple and intuitive, easy to understand and operate. Therefore, linear gate valves are widely used in occasions where precise flow control is required and the adjustment accuracy is not high, such as simple water supply systems or cooling circulation systems. However, its disadvantage is that when the flow rate needs to be fine-tuned, even a small change in opening will cause a large flow fluctuation, which may not be suitable for occasions where the flow control accuracy is extremely high.

Equal percentage (logarithmic) flow characteristics: the best choice for fine adjustment
Unlike the linear type, the equal percentage (logarithmic) flow characteristic changes the rate of change of the flow rate when the valve opening changes, which is proportional to the relative flow rate at that point. This means that when the valve opening is small, the change in flow rate is relatively small, while when the opening is large, the change in flow rate is more significant. This characteristic enables the valve to provide relatively uniform regulation accuracy throughout the entire opening range, which is particularly suitable for occasions that require frequent adjustment and high flow control accuracy, such as reactor feed control in chemical processes and pressure regulation of oil and gas pipelines. In addition, equal percentage gate valves can effectively reduce flow changes caused by system pressure fluctuations and improve system stability.

Quick-opening flow characteristics: a rapid-response cut-off tool

The characteristic of the quick-opening gate valve is that the flow rate increases extremely rapidly in the initial opening stage, and the flow rate growth rate gradually slows down as the opening increases further. This characteristic makes the quick-opening gate valve perform well in occasions where the fluid needs to be quickly cut off or the flow rate needs to be quickly established, such as emergency shut-off systems and fire water supply systems. By opening or closing quickly, the flow state of the fluid can be effectively controlled, the possibility of accidents can be reduced, and the safety of personnel and equipment can be guaranteed.

Other special flow characteristics: tailor-made solutions

In addition to the above three basic types, the flow characteristics of the gate valve can also be customized according to specific application requirements, such as small opening and large flow. The design of this type of special flow characteristics is often targeted at specific industrial scenarios, aiming to solve special needs that are difficult to meet with traditional flow characteristics. For example, in situations where a large flow rate needs to be maintained at a small opening, such as in precision irrigation systems or trace additions in certain chemical processes, a large gate valve with a small opening flow rate can provide a more flexible and efficient flow control solution.