The Difference Between a Knife Gate Valve and Slide Gate
When most people describe plumbing valves, they generally do not take the time to distinguish between the different types—which are often differentiated by only minute details. However, when it comes time for either construction or repairs, knowing what kind of valve to use when is essential in getting the job done right.
If you are interested in learning about the differences between a knife gate valve and a slide gate valve, read on to learn everything you need to know.
What Is a Knife Gate Valve Used For?
This kind of valve is often used in wastewater applications due to its ability to—as can be inferred from the name—slice through more solid materials like a knife. A knife gate valve is designed for use in harsh environments, so you will want to use it if you need something tough.
However, unless they are specifically designed for it, a knife gate valve should not be used to regulate flow. So, unless your goal is to destroy your expensive valve, it should only be used in entirely open or closed applications.
What Is a Slide Gate Valve Used For?
Perhaps the most significant difference between slide gate valves and knife gate valves is the kind of materials that they are designed to regulate.
Whereas knife gate valves are typically used to control wet bulk such as waste liquid, slide gate valves are meant for dry bulk materials like powders, granulates, and pellets. As far as usage and purpose go, this pretty much sums up slide gate valves.
Differences Between the Two Types of Valves
Some will venture to say that there is almost no distinct difference between the two types of valves other than their usage. Furthermore, many “experts” claim that the two are so similar that they might as well be the same valve. This is not true at all.
Granted, they are very similar. However, that does not mean they are the same valve.
For example, the most obvious difference is that knife gate valves have a sharp blade to sever unwanted solids that might prohibit the valve from closing.
Another difference has to do with both the dimensions of the valves and the on which they are constructed. Knife gate valves are built to the American National Standards Institute standards. However, slide gate valves are produced according to those set by the Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry.
Additionally, a knife gate valve has a lesser profile than a slide gate valve. This means that it is smaller and more compact—making it more helpful in managing the valve pressure of liquids rather than bulk solids. Besides this, it is also bi-directional.
How Much Does a Knife Gate Valve Cost?
Like most commodities, the cost of a knife gate valve depends on both the seller, size, location, model, and make. These factors come into play when the price of a specific knife gate valve is being negotiated.
So, when searching for the best deal for a knife gate valve (or any valve, for that matter), you will want to find the company with the best deals out there. Obviously, this will allow you to save money and get the type of valve you need for your project.
Whether you need it for home improvement, business operations, or something else along these lines, taking the time to search for a good deal is worth it and should be an integral part of your purchasing process.
How Much Does a Slide Gate Valve Cost?
When searching for the correct slide gate valve, multiple characteristics are worth your consideration. These include the following:
- Material characteristics
- Contact surface
- Operating environment
- Actuation method
- Electrical classification
Taking each of these into account when searching for the best slide gate deal out there will save you loads of cash.
Interestingly enough, however, slide gate valves have a more comprehensive range than knife gate valves. This may be because slide gate valves can come in larger and smaller sizes than their knife counterparts. As a result, they can be somewhat cheaper than knife gate valves most of the time.
Where Can I Buy One of These Valves?
Finding slide gate valves or knife gate valves at your local department store should not be too challenging. However, that is not where you will find the best valves on the market. Additionally, you will not learn how to operate the valves correctly.
So, where should you go to buy the best knife or slide gate valves?
The answer is online. Because our world is gradually shifting to the digital realm, the companies selling the most efficient and cost-effective valves will sell them there. Additionally, most online websites include a blog where you can learn how to operate your new valve.
One online store stands out from the crowd—Anything Flows. This company is the industry leader in valves, actuators, instruments, and more. If you want quality valve equipment from a trusted company, then Anything Flows is for you.
Check out Anything Flows Today
Well, there you have it. This article answers some of the most common questions regarding a knife gate valve or a slide gate valve. The only step left is to shop around for the most suitable valve for your needs at the highest quality and best price you can find.
What are you waiting for? Contact Anything Flows today and purchase the valve you need at the best price out there. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed with our quality, costs, or customer service.