Technical Description of Diversion Holes Slab Gate Valve

Technical Description of Diversion Holes Slab Gate Valve

A slab gate valve with diversion holes (also called a bypass or equalizing valve) is designed for high-pressure applications, particularly in oil & gas pipelines, where pressure equalization is required before opening the valve fully.

Key Features:

Type: Slab Gate Valve (through-conduit design).

Diversion Holes (Bypass Holes):

Small holes drilled in the gate to allow partial flow for pressure equalization.

Prevents high differential pressure from damaging the valve or requiring excessive operating torque.

Sealing Mechanism:

Metal-to-metal or resilient seated.

Double-sealing design (upstream & downstream).

Operation:

Yes/No Functionality: The valve can either fully open/close or use diversion holes for controlled flow.

Actuation: Manual (handwheel, gear) or automated (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic).

Materials:

Body: Carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy (e.g., API 6A/6D standards).

Gate: Hardened steel or corrosion-resistant coating.

Seats: Stainless steel, PTFE, or elastomeric materials.

Pressure & Temperature Ratings:

ANSI/ASME Class 150 to 2500 (or API 10,000 psi).

Temperature range: -50°F to 650°F (-46°C to 343°C), depending on materials.

End Connections:

Flanged (ANSI/ASME B16.5, B16.47).

Butt-weld (for high-integrity pipelines).

Socket weld or threaded (smaller sizes).

Standards Compliance:

API 6D / API 6A (for pipeline/wellhead).

ISO 14313 / ASME B16.34.

Fire-safe design (API 607/6FA).