- Standards:
- Design and Manufacture: ANSIB16.34, API600 API6D, API603,BS1414
- Face to face(end to end): ANSIB16.10, API6D
- Flange connection: 2″~24″to ANSIB16.5,
- 26″~36″to MSS-SP-44 to API605 on Request
- Test and inspection: API598,API6D
- Butt welded end: ANSIB16.5
Flexible Wedge Gate Valve
Description
The flexible wedge is a one-piece solid disk with a cut around the perimeter. These cuts vary in size, shape, and depth. A shallow, narrow cut on wedge perimeter gives less flexibility but retains strength. A cast-in recess or deeper and wider cut on wedge perimeter gives more flexibility but compromises the strength.
This design improves seat alignment and offers better leak tightness. It also improved performance in situations where thermal binding possible. Flexible wedges Gate valves are used in steam systems.
Thermal expansion of steam line sometime causes distortion of valve bodies which may lead to thermal blinding. The flexible gate allows the gate to flex as the valve seat compresses due to thermal expansion of steam pipeline and prevent thermal blinding.
The disadvantage of flexible gates is that line fluid tends to collect in the disk. These may result in corrosion and ultimately weaken the disk.
