Gate valves and butterfly valve are two kinds of commonly used valves, which are very different in structure, use method, and working conditions. This article will help users to have a deeper understanding of the difference between a gate valve and a butterfly valve, so as to better help users to do a good job in valve selection.
Before we explain the difference between gate valve and butterfly valve, let’s take a look at the definition of each. You may find the difference between them from the definition.
Gate valves, as the name suggests, function like sluice gates to block media in pipelines. These valves are commonly used in both industrial and household applications. The operating component of a gate valve is called the gate plate, which moves vertically perpendicular to the flow direction of the pipeline. As a shut-off valve, it can only be fully open or completely closed, with no capacity for flow regulation.
The butterfly valve, also known as a flap valve, features a disc-shaped plate that rotates around the valve stem to control flow direction. This rotating mechanism enables precise operation from full opening to complete closure within a single 90° turn. Unlike conventional valves, its plate lacks self-locking capability. To achieve this, a turbine reducer is integrated into the valve stem assembly, which not only provides mechanical locking but also enhances operational efficiency through optimized performance characteristics.
After understanding the definition of gate valve and butterfly valve, the following introduces the difference between gate valve and the butterfly valve:
Differences in motor ability
As defined above, we understand the differences in movement direction and mechanism between gate valves and butterfly valves. Additionally, since gate valves can only be fully open or fully closed, they exhibit lower flow resistance when fully open. In contrast, butterfly valves still generate resistance from their plates even when fully open. Furthermore, gate valves require a higher opening height, resulting in slower actuation speed. Conversely, butterfly valves can be opened and closed by simply rotating 90°, achieving rapid operation.
Differences in function and use
Gate valves, renowned for their excellent sealing performance, are primarily used in pipelines that require strict sealing without frequent switching to block the flow of media. However, they cannot regulate flow rates and are unsuitable for emergency shut-off applications due to their slow opening/closing speed. In contrast, butterfly valves demonstrate broader versatility. Not only can they perform blocking functions, but they also enable precise flow regulation. Their rapid opening/closing capability allows frequent operation, making them particularly suitable for scenarios requiring swift activation or immediate shut-off.
Butterfly valves are smaller in size and lighter in weight compared to gate valves, making them the recommended choice for space-constrained installation environments. They are widely used in large-diameter applications and are particularly suitable for pipelines transporting media containing small particulate matter.
In various working conditions, the butterfly valve has gradually replaced other types of valves, becoming the preferred choice for many users.
Price differences
Under the same pressure and the same diameter, the gate valve is more expensive than the butterfly valve. At the same time, the diameter of the butterfly valve can be very large.
