The Difference Between Hard Sealed Gate Valves And Soft Sealed Gate Valves
Hard sealed gate valves and soft sealed gate valves are two types of valves that differ in their sealing mechanisms. Here's an explanation of the differences between them:
Hard Sealed Gate Valves:
Sealing Mechanism: Hard sealed gate valves use metal-to-metal contact for sealing. The gate, which is a metal disc, makes contact with the valve seats to create a seal. The metal surfaces are lapped and machined to ensure a tight seal.
Sealing Performance: Hard sealed gate valves provide a high degree of sealing performance due to the metal-to-metal contact. They are suitable for handling high-pressure and high-temperature applications, as they can withstand harsh conditions.
Durability: The metal sealing surfaces of hard sealed gate valves offer excellent durability and resistance to wear. They are less prone to damage caused by abrasion or erosion, making them suitable for applications with abrasive fluids or high-velocity flow.
Leakage: Hard sealed gate valves generally have a lower tendency for leakage compared to soft sealed gate valves. However, they may require periodic maintenance, such as re-lapping or re-machining of the sealing surfaces, to maintain the sealing performance.
Soft Sealed Gate Valves:
Sealing Mechanism: Soft sealed gate valves use non-metallic materials, such as elastomers or polymers, to create a seal between the gate and the valve seats. These materials provide a resilient and flexible sealing surface.
Sealing Performance: Soft sealed gate valves offer good sealing performance, especially for low to moderate pressure and temperature applications. The soft seal materials deform and conform to the irregularities on the sealing surfaces, providing an effective seal.
Durability: The soft seal materials used in these valves are generally less durable compared to metal-to-metal seals. They can degrade over time due to exposure to chemicals, high temperatures, or mechanical stress. Consequently, the lifespan of soft sealed gate valves may be shorter, and they may require more frequent maintenance or replacement.
Leakage: Soft sealed gate valves are more prone to leakage compared to hard sealed gate valves. The soft seal materials may wear out or deform over time, compromising the sealing integrity. However, advancements in material technology have improved the sealing performance of soft sealed gate valves.
The choice between hard sealed gate valves and soft sealed gate valves depends on the specific application requirements, such as pressure, temperature, fluid characteristics, and maintenance considerations.
