API 600 vs BS 1873: Technical Differences and Selection Impact
When it comes to steel gate valves, API 600 and BS 1873 are two major international standards. Choosing the right standard for your application can significantly affect performance, safety, and cost. This article simplifies the comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Overview
Aspect
API 600
BS 1873
Primary Use
Petroleum and natural gas industries
Water, gas, steam, and general industrial applications
Pressure Range
Class 150 to 2500
PN16 to PN100
Temperature Range
Up to 1200°F
Up to 800°F
Sealing Performance
Very strict with near-zero leakage
Good but slightly less strict than API 600
Cost
Higher due to strict requirements
Moderate to high depending on type
Comprehensive Comparison
Design and Construction
Feature
API 600
BS 1873
Bonnet Design
Bolted bonnet only
Bolted or pressure-seal bonnet
Gate Type
Rising stem
Rising or non-rising stem
Maintenance
Relatively easy disassembly
Varies by type; pressure-seal harder to repair
Complexity
Moderate
Simple to complex depending on type
Performance Characteristics
Aspect
API 600
BS 1873
Sealing Force
Depends on mechanical design
Increases with system pressure
(pressure-seal type)
Thermal Expansion Resistance
Excellent
Good
Vibration Resistance
High
Moderate
Cyclic Operation Suitability
Very good
Good
Material Requirements
Component
API 600
BS 1873
Body Material
Carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel
Carbon steel, stainless steel, various alloys
Seal Material
Metal or soft materials
Metal (bolted type), metal with pressure assist (pressure-seal type)
Corrosion Resistance
High requirements
Varies by application
High-Temperature Performance
Excellent
Good
Testing and Inspection
Test Type
API 600
BS 1873
Shell Strength Test
1.5x MAWP
Varies by type and pressure rating
Seat Tightness Test
Near-zero leakage required
Slightly higher acceptable leakage
Operational Testing
Strict requirements
Moderate requirements
Acceptance Criteria
Very strict
Practical application-focused
Application Suitability
Industry
API 600
BS 1873
Petroleum & Gas
First choice
Less suitable
Water Supply
Overqualified
Suitable (bolted type)
Steam Systems
Suitable
Excellent (pressure-seal type)
General Industrial
Suitable
Suitable
Simple Selection Guide
Situation
Choose API 600 If...
Choose BS 1873 If...
High-pressure oil/gas
Yes
No
Steam above 500°F
No
Yes (pressure-seal type)
Need near-zero leakage
Yes
No
Cost is top priority
No
Yes (bolted type)
Easy maintenance
Yes (bolted type)
No (pressure-seal type)
Conclusion
In summary, API 600 valves excel in high-pressure and high-temperature applications common in the petroleum and natural gas industries. They offer superior sealing performance and reliability but at a higher cost. BS 1873 valves, particularly the pressure-seal type, are ideal for steam systems and general industrial applications. Bolted bonnet BS 1873 valves provide good value for lower-pressure applications. The choice between these standards should be based on your specific application requirements, balancing performance needs with budget considerations.
Manufacturer and supplier of industrial valves, including Floating Ball Valves, Trunnion Ball Valves, Flanged Gate Valves, Welded Gate Valves, High Pressure Gate Valves, Globe Valves, Swing Check Valves, Double Disc Wafer Check Valves, Y Strainers , etc. For more information, please send us your email .
