three steps for openning a gate valve
A GATE VALVE is also called a sluice valve. These valves are used to control the water supply to a water tank. Using the gate valves, water supply can be turned on and off. A gate valve will be having a hand wheel or an electric motor, a lever and so on. When the gate is raised, the water rushes through the gate and into the water tank. When the gate is blocked, the flow is also blocked. A simple example of a gate valve is a household faucet. Almost all gate valves are operated by a handle. Gate valves are also used in many industries to control the flow of liquids into machines.
If the GATE VALVE becomes jammed or stuck and remains closed, the gate valve stops operating and blocks the water from entering the water tanks. To open a stuck gate value you need to follow the steps suggested below.
Step 1: Finding the Valve
First you need to find the valve. Check whether the problem is of the gate valve. A gate valve has the shape of a wedge. The water flows in a straight line in the gate valves. The flow of water is usually stopped by the valve (this acts like a gate). The gate valve does these following functions. When it opens wide, it leaves an opening for water to flow. The opening is of the same size as the pipe which is entering and leaving the valve.
Step 2: Problem Identification
Stop the water supply in the valve which is creating the problem. Isolate the area where you are working. This is done to reduce the chances of further leaks. Check whether there are any external factors that are causing the valve to function inappropriately. Reasons may be due to excess cold or a damaged water line. Keep a bucket under the valve which is causing the problem, if it has to be removed and replaced. Some gate valves will not be opened and closed timely. This may affect the operation of the valve.
Step 3: Fixing the Valve
A light coat of penetrating oil or 3-in-one oil is applied to the valve and excess of the oil is wiped off using a waste cloth or rags. The oil must get to the oil threads. Using the wrench or a hammer, tap the valve and see if the valve opens. On the valve handle, channel locks or an adjustable wrench must be attached. An additional leverage can be achieved by using a rag or gloves that prevent slipping while working. Work in such a way that the surface remains stable. Use a pipe wrench for support so that it does not damage the neighboring pipes. The handle is then dried by using a hair drier. You can also use a blowtorch if, extreme cold is the cause of the block.
