API 602 vs API 600: Understanding the Differences Between Valve Standards
What Is API 602?
API 602 is the standard specification for Gate, Globe, and Check Valves with sizes DN 100 [NPS 4] or Smaller in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries. These valves are intended to withstand extreme pressure or temperature conditions.
API 602 is the standard for 4” and smaller forged steel gate valves used in industrial facilities. This specification outlines the design and construction criteria for these valves, as well as information on extended-body forged valves.
The specification is available in ISO format, providing comprehensive coverage of all design and material criteria for small forged valves. It includes important dimensions like stem diameter minimums, wall thickness, and stuffing box size.
API 602 is a compact and robust valve designed for high-pressure and high-temperature services, made of stainless, carbon, and alloy steel. This product finds applications in natural gas and petroleum industries alike with its standard sealing surface that’s wear-proof. Plus, its polished stem seal area ensures optimal air tightness with no leakage of fugitive emissions. SIO is an established supplier of API 602 valves throughout North America and Europe, with all types and sizes from 150 to 2500mm available.
What Is API 600?
API 600 is an American standard that specifies design criteria for cast steel (carbon and alloy) gate valves used in petroleum industry applications. It specifies key dimensions like stem diameter minimums, wall thickness, and stuffing box size.
The two major types of API 600 valves are rising and non-rising types. When opened, the rising stem type rises above the handwheel, so it’s easier for operators to tell whether the valve is open or closed.
A rising stem makes it easy for the valve operator to make sure their handle is not touching the operating nut, as any interference between them can lead to leakage or prevent operation.
The two primary materials that can be utilized are ductile iron and stainless steel. Both materials come in various sizes and variations.
API 600 gate valve trims come in two varieties: a separate seat ring design or integrated into the body of the valve. Either way, they must be made out of the same material as the body to meet specifications.
API 602 Vs. API 600
The primary distinction between API 602 and API 600 is that the former applies to valve types, while the latter tests for the low emissions capability of a valve. Testing for each type is different based on design, rated temperature, and sealing components.
Essentially, these tests are conducted to demonstrate the low emission capability of a valve over an extended lifecycle. Also referred to as type tests, they offer an invaluable way to verify the performance of various packing sets.
API 602 addresses small forged gate valves, such as ANSI B16 class 150, 300, 600 & 800 valves as well as some other types. It provides design criteria and material designations for these valves along with important dimension information like stem diameter minimums, stuffing box size, wall thickness, and weight.
These valves are ideal for use in a variety of applications, from pipelines to industrial facilities, with less stringent throttling and shut-off requirements than refineries. They come in various sizes and grades with either a cast or forged body.
In addition to these valves, the API 600 standard also specifies heavy-duty ball, check, and plug valves used primarily in pipelines. This standard outlines their design, construction, and testing requirements.
Xintai Valves provides an expansive selection of valves for various applications. Their products can be found in residential and commercial buildings, water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and chemical plants to direct flow, shut off access to water sources, prevent backflow, and adjust system pressure.
