How do gate valves operate in relation to the path of flow?

Gate valves are designed to control the flow of fluid through pipes by lifting or lowering a gate. When the valve is in the open position, the gate is entirely out of the flow path, allowing fluid to move through with minimal resistance and pressure drop. The operation of the gate is characterized primarily by a movement that is up and down, which is perpendicular to the flow direction of the fluid. This vertical motion enables the gate to either fully open or completely close the passage.

The mechanism of a gate valve is such that when the valve is turned, typically using a handwheel or actuator, the gate moves along the axis of the valve body. This is in stark contrast to other types of valves that might use rotational or lateral movements to control flow. The design ensures that the fluid flows straight through the valve when fully open and does not create turbulence, making gate valves particularly effective for applications where a straight-through flow is essential, such as in pipelines transporting liquids or gases.