Parallel gate valve and wedge gate valve: discussion on structural differences and applicable occasions

In the field of fluid control, gate valves, as an important cut-off device, are widely used in various industrial pipeline systems. Among them, parallel gate valves and wedge gate valves are the two main types of gate valves. Each plays an irreplaceable role in different applications with its unique structure and performance characteristics. This article will take the structural differences between the two as an entry point to deeply explore their applicability in different situations.

1. The core of structural differences—valve disc shape and sealing method
The most significant difference between parallel gate valves and wedge gate valves is the shape of the valve disc and the way it seals with the valve seat. The valve disc of the parallel gate valve is flat and parallel to the sealing surface of the valve seat. In the closed state, the valve disc closely fits the valve seat through parallel movement to form a seal. This design makes the parallel gate valve have less resistance during the opening and closing process, is easy to operate, and is not easily affected by medium fluctuations.

In contrast, the valve disc of the wedge gate valve presents a wedge-shaped structure, and its slope forms a certain angle with the valve seat sealing surface. When the valve disc descends, the inclined surface is in close contact with the valve seat, and sealing is achieved through the friction and pressure between the inclined surface and the valve seat. This design improves the linearity and reliability of the seal, but accordingly, the wedge gate valve may require greater operating force during the opening and closing process.

2. Consideration of applicable occasions
It is precisely because of the structural differences between parallel gate valves and wedge gate valves that they each show unique advantages in different applications.

Due to its easy operation and low resistance, parallel gate valve is especially suitable for occasions that require frequent operation and large fluctuations in the medium. For example, in urban water supply and drainage systems and general industrial fluid transmission pipelines, parallel gate valves can effectively control the on and off of fluids to meet the needs of production and life. In addition, with the development of electric control technology, electric parallel gate valves have also been widely used in industrial fields with a high degree of automation.

The wedge gate valve, with its excellent sealing performance, shines in situations that require higher standard sealing. For example, in pipeline systems that transport high-temperature and high-pressure fluids, toxic and hazardous media, or highly corrosive media, the sealing reliability of wedge gate valves has become an indispensable key factor. Its wedge-shaped disc design allows the sealing surface to automatically adjust its position when subjected to pressure, ensuring tightness of the seal. Therefore, in petrochemical, thermal power plant and other industries, wedge gate valves are widely used in key parts such as oil and water vapor pipelines.

The structural difference between parallel gate valves and wedge gate valves is mainly reflected in the shape and sealing method of the valve disc. These differences not only determine their unique performance characteristics, but also determine their applicability in different applications. When selecting a gate valve, we need to comprehensively consider factors such as specific working conditions, medium properties, and operating requirements to ensure that the selected gate valve can meet actual needs and perform at its best. With the continuous development of industrial technology, it is believed that more innovative products and technologies will emerge in the field of gate valves in the future, bringing more convenience and possibilities to the field of fluid control.