Gate valves that are infrequently operated have a tendency to freeze up; these are uncomplicated and typically well-made machines and seldom actually break. If you encounter a broken gate valve, it is very likely that removal and replacement will be far cheaper than contacting the original manufacturer for internal parts. There are a number of measures that will probably free up a seized gate valve.

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Advice on Open a Broken Gate Valve

The valve does not open and there are several possibilities

1、The pipes have not been used for a long time, causing rust inside the valves and preventing them from opening.

Close the shut-off valve in front of the valve, remove the valve, check if the gate, stem, and stem nut are rusted and damaged, and replace them with new parts. If not damaged or jammed, clean up the rust and brush on anti-rust oil.

2、The pipeline has been used normally and the gate valve is subject to uncertain resistance during the opening.

There are two situations above, one gate valve is stuck by a foreign object in the pipeline, close the valve before shutting off the valve, remove the valve, clean the foreign object, you can continue to use normally. Second, because the artificial switching force is too large, causing the valve stem to bend due to excessive torque, the same need to remove from the valve and replace with the new stem。

Opening a broken gate valve is only a temporary recommendation, if it is used for a long time it is recommended that it is replaced gate valve or repair gate valve, but for less expensive gate valves it is recommended that it is replaced.

The following articles are advice on gate valve repair

How to Open a Broken Gate Valve?

Before Working on the Valve

First check that there is water in the pipe: If the utility or well pump is experiencing an issue or the pipe is frozen, the gate valve is not to blame. If the supply is otherwise fine, isolate the gate valve if possible. Closing other valves, or stop-taps, up and downstream could save mess and irritation later. Position a bowl or bucket beneath the valve if possible; otherwise, stuff towels around the area.

Penetrating Oil

Penetrating oil usually works to free gate valves that are seized for no other reason than lack of use. The lubricating oil found in almost every home, garage, and workshop in the U.S. is not — contrary to popular opinion — a penetrating oil. Its use will do little more than making the gate valve slippery and more difficult to work on. True penetrating oils can be found in auto parts stores and, occasionally, in the auto aisles of department stores. Clean away any verdigris or atmospheric deposits from the gate valve’s visible threads, follow the oil manufacturer’s directions for use and wait time, then tap the valve gently but firmly with a lightweight hammer to jar free any foreign matter gluing up the threads and try to open it as normal. Use a non-flammable penetrating oil in case the subsequent application of heat is necessary.

Additional Leverage

If the gate valve is still stuck after using the penetrating oil at least three times, try extending the leverage you have on the handle. Slip a sturdy screwdriver blade through the tines of the handle or use a pair of vise grips on the stem. Support the valve with your free hand so as to prevent the force you apply with the lever from being transferred to the pipe and very gradually increase the pressure until the seize breaks or you fear continuing will bend the pipes on either side of the valve.

Heat

Heat is often used to free up two metal components that have become bonded; nuts locked onto bolts by rust are almost certainly the most common use. The idea is to make one component of the valve heat up much faster than the other so that one expands while the other doesn’t, causing the unwanted bond to crack. Heating slowly, therefore, does not work. Only an extremely hot flame will work, such as a soldering blow-torch or a welding or cutting torch. Caution must be used to avoid scorching or setting fire to the gate valve’s surroundings. Use the heat source judiciously — do not leave the flame in contact with the valve for so long that any washers catch fire or liquefy and begin to leak — then apply leveraged pressure immediately.

How to Disassemble a Stuck Gate Valve

ate valves are typically screwed to a wall or between two pieces of piping. Before removing it, you can attempt to unclog the valve using just the water in the system. Turn the water source on as high as possible, then slowly open and close the valve as fully as it will let you. This could loosen some debris and allow you to close the gate valve fully.

If this doesn’t do the trick, you should turn off the water source and remove the valve from the pipeline. This is typically done by unscrewing the ends. Once the valve is disconnected, use pliers to loosen the gate valve’s bonnet, as shown in the picture. Do not loosen the packing nut, as it is what holds the components together that keep fluid from leaking up the stem.

When you have unscrewed the bonnet, you will be able to remove the top of the gate valve, with the handle and seating, from the body. This will allow you to clean your valve from the top, using a toothbrush or other cleaning tool.

How to Rebuilt A Stuck Gate Valve

Congratulations! Your gate valve is clean and clear! Now all that’s left is to put it together. This is a simple process if you have only disconnected the bonnet. Slide the gate back into the proper position in the valve’s body then screw the gate valve bonnet until secure. Test the valve by turning the handle. Ensure that the gate opens and closes fully. Once you are sure it is working properly, put it back into its place in the pipeline, using fresh pipe dope or sealant tape.

A malfunctioning gate valve is not difficult to repair, but it is even easier to prevent. These problems are typically caused by mineral buildup, so you should fully close and open your gate valves every few months to clear potential problems. If your gate valve has severe pitting or corrosion, you will need to replace it. Luckily, we supply gate valves at the best prices anywhere.