If you’ve ever hesitated between choosing a flanged or threaded globe valve, you’re not alone. Globe valves are common shut-off valves widely used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, shipbuilding, and water treatment. While both connection types can control fluid flow, they differ significantly in terms of installation method, sealing performance, and suitable applications. This article will provide a systematic comparison of flanged and threaded globe valves from the perspectives of structure, performance, and application.

I. Fundamental Difference in Connection Methods

1.Flanged Globe Valve

A flanged globe valve connects to the pipeline through flanges, with bolts tightening the flange faces together to ensure a secure seal.
This connection type offers excellent strength and reliability, making it ideal for medium to high-pressure, large-diameter, and frequently operated systems.
In industrial applications, typical sizes range from DN50 to DN300, and flange dimensions generally follow international standards such as ANSI, DIN, or JIS.

2. Threaded Globe Valve
A threaded globe valve typically uses either internal (NPT/BSP) or external threads to connect to the pipeline, relying on the threads themselves for sealing.
This compact and lightweight structure allows for easy installation and is mainly used in small-diameter (usually ≤ DN50) and low-pressure systems, including residential pipelines.
Because it does not require welding or flange gaskets, a threaded valve is more cost-effective in both installation and maintenance.

II. Comparison of Sealing Performance and Maintenance

Flanged Globe Valve
Flanged globe valves typically use metal or flexible graphite gaskets for sealing, offering excellent resistance to high temperature, high pressure, and corrosion.
During long-term operation, maintenance or valve replacement is straightforward—simply loosen the flange bolts to disassemble the valve.

Threaded Globe Valve
The sealing of a threaded globe valve mainly depends on the thread engagement and sealing materials such as PTFE tape or sealing paste.
However, repeated disassembly can damage the threads and increase the risk of leakage.
For this reason, threaded globe valves are better suited for fixed installations, clean fluids, and low-pressure systems.

III. Structural Dimensions and Installation Requirements

Flanged Globe Valve
Flanged globe valves are larger in size and require more installation space, but they provide superior vibration resistance and pressure tolerance.
They are commonly used in industrial piping networks or pump station systems where sufficient structural support is available.

Threaded Globe Valve
Threaded globe valves feature a compact design, making them ideal for confined spaces or lightweight piping systems such as laboratories, compressor inlets and outlets, and domestic water supply lines.
However, threaded connections are not recommended for high-vibration or high-temperature environments, as they may loosen or cause leakage over time.

IV. Cost and Service Life

Flanged Globe Valve
Flanged globe valves are more expensive to manufacture and install, but they offer a longer service life and extended maintenance intervals.
They are suitable for long-term operation and demanding industrial applications.

Threaded Globe Valve
Threaded globe valves are more economical and easier to install, but they are not ideal for frequent disassembly or high-pressure conditions.

Overall Comparison
If the project budget allows and the operating conditions are complex, a flanged globe valve is the better choice.
For lightweight systems or temporary setups, a threaded globe valve provides a more cost-effective solution.

V. Application Comparison

Flanged Globe Valve:
Commonly used in petrochemical installations, thermal power networks, steam pipelines, high-pressure water systems, and industrial production lines.

Threaded Globe Valve:
Typically applied in air compressor systems, cooling water lines, laboratory setups, and residential water supply or HVAC systems.

Summary

The difference between flanged and threaded globe valves lies not only in their connection type, but also in installation convenience, sealing performance, applicable pressure range, and maintenance cycle.

In short:

Choose a flanged globe valve if your priority is strength, reliability, and long service life.

Choose a threaded globe valve if you prefer lightweight design, lower cost, and easier installation.

Q&A

Q1: Can a flanged globe valve be used in high-temperature steam systems?
Yes. The flanged connection can withstand significant thermal stress and pressure fluctuations. When paired with a metal seal, it is suitable for media such as high-temperature steam and thermal oil.

Q2: Can a threaded globe valve handle corrosive media?
Not recommended. Although stainless steel versions exist, the threaded seal tends to fail in corrosive environments. A flanged or welded connection is a more reliable option.

Q3: Which type of globe valve is easier to maintain?
The flanged globe valve is easier to disassemble and service. Frequent removal of a threaded valve can wear out the threads, increasing the risk of leakage.

Q4: Can a threaded globe valve be replaced with a flanged type?
Technically yes, but it requires pipe modification or the use of adapters. It’s best to determine the valve connection type during the system design phase to avoid costly changes later.