What does a gate valve look like?

A gate valve is easily recognizable by its distinct shape and operating mechanism. It typically features a round or oval body with flanged, threaded, or welded ends that connect to the pipeline. The most prominent feature is the handwheel or handle located on top of the valve stem. In rising stem models, which are common in visible installations, the stem physically moves upward as you turn the handwheel counter-clockwise to open the valve, providing a clear visual indication that the valve is open. When closed, the stem retracts into the bonnet. The body is often bulky compared to other valve types like ball or butterfly valves because it needs to accommodate the sliding gate mechanism inside. Gate valves are usually made of bronze, brass, cast iron, or stainless steel, giving them a heavy, industrial appearance. They do not have a lever that turns 90 degrees; instead, they require multiple rotations of the wheel to fully open or close, distinguishing them from quarter-turn valves.