Butterfly vs Gate Valves: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Water Network
When designing or upgrading a water distribution or fire protection system, one of the most common decisions engineers face is whether to use butterfly valves or gate valves. Both types are designed to control the flow of fluids, but their mechanisms, performance, and suitability can vary significantly based on the application.
Let’s explore their differences in a technical yet practical way, to help you make the right choice for your next project.
How They Work
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Gate Valve: Operates by raising or lowering a wedge (gate) into the flow path. Offers a straight-through, unobstructed passage.
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Butterfly Valve: Uses a rotating disc mounted on a shaft to block or allow flow. The disc remains in the flow path even when fully open.
| Feature | Gate Valve | Butterfly Valve |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Linear (multi-turn) | Quarter-turn (90° rotation) |
| Installation Space | Requires more space | Compact, ideal for tight areas |
| Flow Resistance | Minimal (full bore) | Slight due to disc in flow path |
| Maintenance | Low but harder to access | Easier access, fewer parts |
| Cost | Higher in large sizes | Cost-effective, especially for DN≥200 |
| Application | Ideal for isolation | Ideal for throttling and isolation |
| Pressure Ratings | Generally higher | Limited in very high-pressure networks |
Application Scenarios
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Gate Valves are preferred in underground water networks, pump stations, and fire protection systems where full-bore flow is critical, and flow resistance must be minimized.
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Butterfly Valves excel in irrigation, HVAC systems, and industrial pipelines due to their smaller footprint, lightweight structure, and easy actuation.
BIMEX Valve Options
BIMEX manufactures both gate and butterfly valves with top-tier specifications and international certifications (UL, FM, AWWA, ISO). Each model is designed for durability in harsh environments and comes in a wide range of sizes and pressure ratings.
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Gate Valves: Ductile iron body, stainless steel stem, resilient wedge, epoxy-coated
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Butterfly Valves: Double eccentric design, stainless steel seat ring, bidirectional sealing, mechanical indicator
Making the Right Choice
If your project prioritizes low flow resistance and complete shut-off, go for a gate valve.
If space, budget, or actuation speed are more important, butterfly valves may be the ideal solution.
Still unsure? BIMEX technical engineers are available to help you evaluate the best valve for your system based on flow rate, pressure, size, and operational needs.
📩 Contact BIMEX to get expert guidance or download technical datasheets for your project.
