Here are some key advantages of using fire protection gate valves:
Tight Shutoff
Gate valves provide a robust metal-to-metal seal when fully closed, preventing water flow. This allows isolation of branch lines during emergencies.
Full Waterway
Gate valves have a full, unobstructed waterway when open, minimizing friction loss. This allows maximum flows.
Low Pressure Loss
The straight-through waterway results in very low pressure loss compared to other valve types. Critical for firefighting.
Bubble-Tight Seal
Gates can achieve a 100% bubble-tight seal per testing requirements. Prevents water leakage.
Resilient Wedge
The wedge forces the gate against seats for a tight seal even on fluctuating pressure. Crucial for reliability.
Low Operating Torque
Large handwheels allow easy opening and closing by a single firefighter wearing gloves. Speed is important.
Replaceable Seats
Seats can be replaced to restore tight shutoff capability after years of service. Extends valve life.
Fire Ratings
Select valves are rated for exposure to high temperatures during a fire. Help system integrity.
Standards Compliance
Valves meet stringent NFPA installation standards for fire protection systems. Provides confidence.
Cost Effectiveness
Quality gate valves are very competitively priced compared to other shutoff options. Good value.
Overall, the proven performance, capabilities and reasonable cost of gate valves make them a trusted choice for fire protection shutoff duties. Their advantages directly support critical system operation during emergencies.