Gate Valve
Gate valves — sometimes called sluice valves — use a threaded stem to raise or lower a gate across the flow path. When fully open, the gate sits clear of the bore, allowing unrestricted full bore flow with minimal pressure drop. When closed, the gate seals against the seat to isolate the line. This design makes gate valves well suited to applications where the valve is either fully open or fully closed, rather than used for regular throttling. The Hosemaster stocks gate valves in brass and stainless steel, suitable for water, steam and general industrial fluid applications across a range of standard pipe sizes.-
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Gate Valve - Stainless
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£87.47 INC VAT
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Gate valves: full bore isolation for pipework systems
The case for a gate valve comes down to pressure drop. When a gate valve is fully open, the gate is lifted completely out of the flow path. There's no obstruction — liquid or gas passes straight through as if the valve weren't there. That's useful in systems where maintaining flow rate matters, or where you're working with viscous media that doesn't tolerate restriction.
The trade-off is speed of operation. A gate valve takes several turns of the handwheel to open or close, which makes it unsuitable for applications where rapid isolation is needed. Use a ball valve for that. Gate valves are the right choice for pipework sections that are normally left in a fixed position — open during operation, closed for maintenance or system isolation.
Brass is the standard material for most hot and cold water and general industrial duty. Stainless steel is available where corrosion resistance is required. As with any valve, match the pressure and temperature rating to your system before fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gate valve used for?
Gate valves are used to isolate sections of pipework. They give unrestricted full bore flow when open and a positive shut-off when closed. They're not designed for regular throttling — they work best left fully open or fully closed.
What is the difference between a gate valve and a ball valve?
A ball valve opens and closes with a quarter turn and is faster to operate. A gate valve uses a threaded stem that requires multiple turns to open or close, but provides full bore flow when open with no restriction from a ball or bore. Gate valves are generally preferred in systems where the valve is rarely operated but full bore flow matters.
Are gate valves suitable for hot water systems?
Brass gate valves are suitable for hot and cold water systems within the rated temperature range. Check the individual product specification for the maximum working temperature and pressure before fitting.
What sizes do your gate valves come in?
Gate valves in our range are available across standard BSP thread sizes. Check the product listings for the specific sizes in stock.