A gate valve is designed to fully open and close once installed into pipelines as isolating valves. Operation of a gate valve is performed doing an either clockwise to close or clockwise to open rotating motion of the stems. When operated, the gate moves up or downward on threaded part of the stem. You can learn more in our complete gate valves guide.TypesGate valves are divided into two types: parallel and wedge shaped.Parallel gate valve use a flat gate between two parallel seatsWedge shaped valve use two inclined seats and slightly mismatched inclined gate, allowing a tight shut off.Uses of Gate ValvesGate valves are widely used for all types of applications and are suitable for both above ground and underground installation. Underground installations are paramount to choose the right type of valve to avoid high replacement costs.Gate valves can be used for a vast number of industrial applications including the oil and gas industry, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, automotive and marine. Gate valves can be used in demanding environments such as high temperature and high-pressure environments. They are often seen in: Power plantsWater treatmentMining andOffshore applications.