An API 602 forged gate valve is used for compact, small-bore gate valve service in petroleum, natural gas, chemical, power, and industrial piping. To specify the right design, confirm size, pressure class, material, bonnet type, end connection, port type, trim, seat, testing standard, and service conditions.

What Is an API 602 Forged Gate Valve?

An API 602 forged gate valve is a compact steel gate valve manufactured to API 602 requirements. API 602 covers gate, globe, and check valves for sizes DN 100 / NPS 4 and smaller in petroleum and natural gas industry applications.

Unlike large cast steel gate valves, forged gate valves are usually selected for smaller piping systems where pressure, temperature, vibration, or compact installation matters. Forged construction provides a dense material structure, which is useful for high-pressure and critical service.

In simple terms, API 602 is often the better fit when the line is small but the service is demanding.

When Should You Use an API 602 Forged Gate Valve?

Use an API 602 forged gate valve when the application requires reliable isolation in a compact piping system. It is commonly used in refineries, chemical plants, power plants, oil and gas facilities, steam lines, vents, drains, and utility systems.

Typical use cases include:

● Small-bore high-pressure lines

● Steam and condensate service

● Process isolation

● Skid-mounted systems

● Drain and vent connections

● Instrument and auxiliary piping

● Oil, gas, and petrochemical service

For larger line sizes or heavy-duty cast steel applications, API 600 may be more appropriate. API 602 and API 600 should not be treated as interchangeable standards.

Key Design Choices to Specify

Do not specify an API 602 forged gate valve only by size and pressure class. The purchase requirement should define the full valve design.

Important items include:

These details affect sealing, pressure capability, maintainability, and installation.

Bonnet and End Connection Selection

Bonnet type should match pressure, temperature, and maintenance needs. Bolted bonnet designs are common and easier to service. Welded bonnet designs reduce potential leakage paths but are less convenient to disassemble. Pressure seal bonnets may be considered for higher-pressure service, depending on the design and project requirement.

End connection is equally important. Socket weld ends are common for small-bore forged valves. Threaded ends may be used in lower-risk utility service, while butt weld or flanged ends may be selected when required by piping specifications.

Material and Seat Selection

Material selection should be based on medium, pressure, temperature, and corrosion risk. Carbon steel may be suitable for general service. Stainless steel or alloy steel may be required for corrosive, high-temperature, low-temperature, or sour service.

Seat and trim selection also matter. For steam or high-temperature service, buyers should check hardfacing, stem material, packing, and leakage requirements. For fugitive emission-sensitive service, packing design and relevant emission requirements should be reviewed.

FAQ

Is API 602 only for gate valves?

No. API 602 covers compact gate, globe, and check valves for small-bore petroleum and natural gas industry applications.

What is the difference between API 602 and API 600?

API 602 applies to compact forged steel gate, globe, and check valves, usually in smaller sizes. API 600 applies to larger steel gate valves with different design requirements.

What information is needed to specify an API 602 forged gate valve?

At minimum, provide size, pressure class, material, end connection, bonnet type, port type, trim, medium, temperature, and required testing standard.

Need Help Selecting a Forged Gate Valve?

Send your medium, pressure class, temperature, line size, material requirement, end connection, bonnet preference, and testing standard. A technical selection can then be made based on the actual service conditions.