Components, systems and materials › Water and drainage components › Sluice valve
Sluice valve
What it is
A sluice valve, also called a gate valve, has a gate that slides across the bore to fully open or fully shut a pipeline; it is the main isolating valve in water networks.
Where it is used
Transmission and distribution mains, at branches, zone boundaries, pump stations and treatment plants, to isolate sections for repairs and to divide networks into manageable zones.
How it works
Turning the spindle raises or lowers the gate through a threaded nut. Fully open, the gate is clear of the bore, so head loss is small. It is meant for full open or full closed duty; using it to throttle flow causes vibration, wear and noise. Closing it slowly avoids pressure surges.
Types
- Rising spindle valves, which show position by the spindle
- non-rising spindle valves for buried service
- resilient-seated valves with rubber-encapsulated gates
- metal-seated valves for larger sizes and higher pressures
Materials
Cast iron or ductile iron body with epoxy coating, stainless steel or bronze spindle, rubber or metal seats, gland packing or O-ring seals.
Pressure class and size match the main, with flanged or socketed ends. Large valves may need a gearbox and a small bypass valve to equalise pressure before opening. Valve spacing on mains is planned so a break can be isolated without shutting off too many consumers. Closing time is set to limit water hammer.
Installation and QA steps
- Check pressure rating and test certificate.
- Install in an accessible chamber or with a surface box and key tube.
- Support the valve so pipe loads do not distort the body.
- Pressure-test with the pipeline.
- Record location in the network map and exercise the valve periodically.
- Seized spindles from never being operated
- leaking glands and seats
- valves buried under road resurfacing and lost
- water hammer from closing too fast
Codes cited
- IS 14846 (India): Sluice valves for water works purposes.
Cited by number only. We do not reproduce code text, tables or figures.
Related
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