A noisy and vibrating gate valve may indicate which condition?

A noisy and vibrating gate valve often indicates cavitation is happening. Cavitation occurs when there are changes in pressure within the valve, causing the formation and collapse of vapor bubbles. This phenomenon can result from a variety of factors, including excessive flow velocity or improper sizing of the valve related to the system’s pressure conditions. When these vapor bubbles collapse, they can create shock waves, leading to the vibration and noise observed.

Recognizing cavitation is crucial because it can lead to damage over time, affecting the valve's integrity and overall system performance. Understanding how cavitation manifests in a gate valve helps operators respond promptly to prevent further issues.