True Union Gate Valves?

[GlockFu]

I've never used a gate valve so I can't say that I know exactly how they work but why is it that I don't see very many true union gate valve options? Theres a ton of true union ball valve options but not in the gate valve department.

Am I not looking in the right place? Are they not needed? Or am I missing something?

 

[ca1ore]

I've never seen one that comes with integrated unions, but it's easy enough just to add them.

 

[EvenFurther]

1 piece ball valves cannot be disassembled in-line for service, that's why they make true union type so they can remove in-line. Gate valves typically have a removable bonnet so the top works can be removed for service, while the body remains in place. You don't see true union gate valves because the arrangement allows service in-line.

If you want the entire gate valve to come out easily, use unions or use a F.NPT ports gate valve, with M.NPT x Slip male adapters screwed in.

I'm planning on using NPT gates with the male adapters, where I'm using gate type.

 

[mjc0760]

That makes perfect sense, EvenFurther! I was looking around for true union gates as well before I ended up with a few of these:
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem.aspx?idProduct=FT3833&child=FT3855

I tried unscrewing the bonnet, but didn't want to use too much force on a $26 valve. You think they'll come off? (If they are removable, then they are on tighter than dick's hat band!)

I think I'll ask Marine Depot as well...