Which statement best describes throttling with a gate valve?

Which statement best describes throttling with a gate valve?

• A. Don't
• B. Can
• C. Should
• D. Might

Answer: (A)

Gate valves are meant for on/off service, not for regulating flow. When a gate valve is only partially opened, the flow path becomes highly nonlinear and the flow can change abruptly with small movements. This leads to poor control, high turbulence, and accelerated wear on the gate and seats, which can cause leaks or damage and make throttling unreliable. In contrast, devices designed for throttling—such as globe-type control valves or other dedicated throttling/pressure-regulating valves—provide a more predictable and smoother flow response and are built to handle the wear from partially open positions. So, in a distribution system, don’t throttle with a gate valve; keep it fully open or fully closed and use an appropriate throttling valve for regulation.

Gate valves are meant for on/off service, not for regulating flow. When a gate valve is only partially opened, the flow path becomes highly nonlinear and the flow can change abruptly with small movements. This leads to poor control, high turbulence, and accelerated wear on the gate and seats, which can cause leaks or damage and make throttling unreliable. In contrast, devices designed for throttling—such as globe-type control valves or other dedicated throttling/pressure-regulating valves—provide a more predictable and smoother flow response and are built to handle the wear from partially open positions. So, in a distribution system, don’t throttle with a gate valve; keep it fully open or fully closed and use an appropriate throttling valve for regulation.