Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate Valves For Water Supply Service

American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C515-99
(First Edition)
AWWA STANDARD
FOR
REDUCED-WALL, RESILIENT-SEATED
GATE VALVES FOR WATER SUPPLY SERVICE
Effective date: Sept. 1, 1999.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors Jan. 24, 1999.
Approved by American National Standards Institute June 29, 1999.
AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235
Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a specification.
AWWA standards describe minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and
administrative information normally contained in specifications. The AWWA standards usually
contain options that must be evaluated by the user of the standard. Until each optional feature is
specified by the user, the product or service is not fully defined. AWWA publication of a standard
does not constitute endorsement of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or
approve any product. The use of AWWA standards is entirely voluntary. AWWA standards are
intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that the product described will
provide satisfactory service. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an official notice of
action will be placed on the first page of the classified advertising section of Journal AWWA. The
action becomes effective on the first day of the month following the month of Journal AWWA
publication of the official notice.
American National Standard

An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially concerned with its scope
and provisions. An American National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the
consumer, and the general public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any
respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or not, from manufactur-
ing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the
standard. American National Standards are subject to periodic review, and users are cautioned to
obtain the latest editions. Producers of goods made in conformity with an American National
Standard are encouraged to state on their own responsibility in advertising and promotional
materials or on tags or labels that the goods are produced in conformity with particular American
National Standards.
CAUTION NOTICE: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approval date on the front
cover of this standard indicates completion of the ANSI approval process. This American National
Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. ANSI procedures require that action be taken
to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard no later than five years from the date of publication.
Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current information on all standards by
calling or writing the American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036;
(212) 642-4900.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information or retrieval
system, except in the form of brief excerpts or quotations for review purposes, without the written
permission of the publisher.
ii

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works
Association
Printed in USA
Committee Personnel
The AWWA standards subcommittee that reviewed this standard had the
following personnel at the time of approval:
Joseph J. Gemin, Chair
Jerry Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (AWWA)

M.H. Burnes, Denver Water Department, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
R.L. Claudy Jr., Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
L.R. Dunn, U.S. Pipe & Foundry Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
L.W. Fleury Jr., Meuller Company, Cranston, R.I. (AWWA)
J.J. Gemin, Proctor & Redfern Ltd., Kitchener, Ont. (AWWA)
S.F. Gorden, Detroit Water & Sewage Administration, Detroit, Mich. (AWWA)
R.L. Larkin, American Flow Control, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
T.J. Mettler, Waterous Company, South St. Paul, Minn. (AWWA)
T.M. Teske, East Jordan Iron Works, East Jordan, Mich. (AWWA)
J.F. Zerfas, M&H Valve Company, Anniston, Ala. (AWWA)
The AWWA Standards Committee on Gate Valves and Swing Check Valves,
which reviewed and approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time
of approval:
Joseph J. Gemin, Chair

Thomas M. Bowen, Vice-Chair
Roland L. Larkin, Secretary
Consumer Members
S.K. Batra, Detroit Water & Sewerage Department, Detroit, Mich. (AWWA)
M.O. Beagle, Lansing Board of Water & Light, Lansing, Mich. (AWWA)
T.M. Bowen, Manchester Water Works, Manchester, N.H. (AWWA)
M.H. Burns, Denver Water Department, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
Nelson Mejia, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power,
Los Angeles, Calif. (AWWA)
C.H. Kersey, Tucker Young Jackson Tull Inc., Detroit, Mich. (AWWA)
General Interest Members
K.M. Bell, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)

R.L. Claudy Jr., Orlando Utilities Commission, Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
iii

C.R. Dugan,* Council Liaison, Lansing Board of Water & Light,
Lansing, Mich. AWWA)
J.V. Fonley, Orange, Calif. (AWWA)
J.J. Gemin, Proctor & Redfern Ltd., Kitchener, Ont. (AWWA)
S.J. Medlar, Camp, Dresser & McKee Inc., Edison, N.J. (NEWWA)
M.S. Solomon, Winzler & Kelly Consulting Engineers, Santa Rosa, Calif. (AWWA)
E.F. Straw, ISO Commercial Risk Services Inc., Duluth, Ga. (ISO)
T.R. Volz, URS Greiner Inc., Colorado Springs, Colo. (AWWA)
J.H. Wilber,† Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
Producer Members
Jerry Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (MSS)

L.R. Dunn, U.S. Pipe & Foundry Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
Les Engelmann, Ames Company Inc., Woodland, Calif. (AWWA)
L.W. Fleury Jr., Mueller Company, Cranston, R.I. (AWWA)
Steve Flora, M&H Valve Company, Anniston, Ala. (AWWA)
R.L. Larkin, American Flow Control, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
H.E. Otte, Waterous Company, South St. Paul, Minn. (AWWA)
* Liaison, nonvoting
† Liaison, nonvoting
iv

Contents
All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this
format may be found in a particular standard.
SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE
Foreword Appendix
I Introduction.......................................... vii A Installation, Operation, and
I.A Background........................................... vii Maintenance of Reduced-Wall,
I.B History .................................................. vii Resilient-Seated Gate Valves ...........14
I.C Acceptance ............................................ vii A.1 General ..................................................14
II Special Issues ...................................... viii A.2 Unloading..............................................14
III Use of This Standard.......................... viii A.3 Receiving Inspection.............................14
III.A Purchaser Options and Alternatives ... viii A.4 Storage ..................................................15
III.B Modification to Standard...................... ix A.5 Installation............................................15
IV Major Revisions..................................... ix A.5.1 Bolts.......................................................15
V Comments.............................................. ix A.5.2 Underground Installation ....................15
A.5.3 Aboveground Installations ...................16
Standard A.5.4 Inspection ..............................................16
1 General A.5.5 Testing...................................................16
A.5.6 Records ..................................................16
1.1 Scope ....................................................... 1
A.5.7 Application Hazards.............................16
1.2 Purpose ................................................... 2
A.6 Maintenance .........................................17
1.3 Application.............................................. 2
A.6.1 Valve Exercising ...................................17
2 References ............................................ 2 A.6.2 Inspection ..............................................17
A.6.3 Record Keeping.....................................18
3 Definitions............................................ 4
A.7 Repairs ..................................................18
4 Requirements
4.1 Data to Be Supplied by the Tables
Manufacturer ...................................... 4 1 Minimum Thickness of Body
4.2 Materials................................................. 5 and Bonnet .......................................... 7
4.3 General Design....................................... 6 2 Excess Flange Thickness ....................... 8
4.4 Detailed Design...................................... 6 3 Stem and Stem Nut Copper Alloys .......9
4.5 Fabrication ........................................... 11 4 Minimum Diameter of Stem and
5 Verification Minimum Number of Turns
to Open................................................. 9
5.1 Testing .................................................. 12
5 Diameter of Handwheels .....................11
5.2 Plant Inspection and Rejection ........... 13
6 Gear Ratios ...........................................12
6 Delivery
6.1 Marking ................................................ 13
6.2 Preparation for Shipment ................... 13
6.3 Affidavit of Compliance ....................... 13

This page intentionally blank.

Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C515.
I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. This standard covers reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate
valves with nonrising stems (NRS) and outside screw-and-yoke (OS&Y) rising
stems, including tapping gate valves, for water supply service. The standard applies
to water supply service having a pH range from 6.5 to 8.5 and a temperature from
33° to 125°F (0.6° to 52°C).
This standard includes the unified numbering system (UNS) copper alloy
designations in place of the A, B, C, D, and E grades of bronze, which are listed in
Table 1 of ANSI*/AWWA C500-93 and ANSI/AWWA C509-94. AWWA required that
the UNS alloy designations be substituted for the traditional grades A, B, C, D, E of
bronze in all new standards and revisions. This is not intended to change the
requirement for the types of bronzes to be used in the components of AWWA gate
valves; it only changes the format for how those bronze requirements are designated.
I.B. History. The first edition of AWWA C509 Standard for Resilient-Seated
Gate Valves was published in 1980. ANSI/AWWA C509 includes body and bonnet
parts of either gray or ductile cast iron with shell-wall thicknesses equal to those of
ANSI/AWWA C500, Standard for Metal-Seated Gate Valves, which was first issued in
1952 as AWWA C500, but had its roots going back to the first AWWA standard for
gate valves adopted June 24, 1913.
In 1993, the AWWA Standards Committee on Gate Valves and Swing Check
Valves received authorization from the AWWA Standards Council to prepare a
standard covering reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves. Just as other recent
AWWA standards have been developed as a result of the attendant strength of ductile
iron (for pressure pipe and compact fittings), this standard results from its
application for gate valves.
The Manufacturer’s Standardization Society of the Valves and Fittings Industry
(MSS) has played an important role in developing this standard. Founded in 1924,
MSS has had official organizational representation on AWWA standards committees
dealing with valve and hydrant products since 1930.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF
International (NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a
certification program for all direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other
members of the original consortium included the American Water Works Association
Research Foundation (AWWARF) and the Conference of State Health and Environ-
mental Managers (COSHEM). The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and
the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact
with, drinking water rests with individual states.† Local agencies may choose to
impose requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate
*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

†Persons in Canada, Mexico, and non-North American countries should contact the
appropriate authority having jurisdiction.
vii

the health effects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state
and local agencies may use various references, including
1. An advisory program formerly administered by USEPA, Office of Drinking
Water, discontinued on Apr. 7, 1990.
2. Specific policies of the state or local agency.
3. Two standards developed under the direction of NSF, ANSI*/NSF† 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects, and ANSI/NSF 61, Drinking
Water System Components—Health Effects.
4. Other references, including AWWA standards, Food Chemicals Codex, Water
Chemicals Codex,‡ and other standards considered appropriate by the state or local
agency.
Various certification organizations may be involved in certifying products in
accordance with ANSI/NSF 61. Individual states or local agencies have authority to
accept or accredit certification organizations within their jurisdiction. Accreditation
of certification organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Appendix A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to ANSI/NSF 61
does not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for substances
not regulated by a USEPA final maximum contaminant level (MCL). The MALs of an
unspecified list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity testing
guidelines (noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcinogens). Use
of Appendix A procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifier.
AWWA C515-99 does not address additives requirements. Thus, users of this
standard should consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in
order to
1. Determine additives requirements, including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifications by all parties offering to certify
products for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certification.
II. Special Issues. This standard has no applicable information for this
section.
III. Use of This Standard. AWWA has no responsibility for the suitability
or compatibility of the provisions of this standard to any intended application by any
user. Accordingly, each user of this standard is responsible for determining that the
standard’s provisions are suitable for and compatible with that user’s intended
application.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following items should be
included in the purchaser’s specifications
1. Standard used—that is, AWWA C515-99, Standard for Reduced-Wall,
Resilient-Seated Gate Valves for Water Supply Service, of latest revision.
2. Whether or not the purchaser requires all cast ferrous valve components to
be made of ductile iron.
3. Size and type of valve, NRS or OS&Y (Sec. 1.1).
4. Quantity required.

†NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.
‡Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 2102 Constitution Ave.
N.W., Washington, DC 20418.
viii

5. Whether the valve is handwheel or wrench-nut operated and the direction
in which the handwheel or wrench nut shall turn to open (Sec. 4.4.7).
6. Catalog data, net weight, and assembly drawings to be furnished by the
manufacturer (Sec. 4.1), if required.
7. Affidavit of compliance (Sec. 6.3), if required.
8. Whether or not records of tests specified in Sec. 5 are to be furnished.
9. Whether or not the valve will be subjected to water that promotes corrosion
and requires the use of alternative materials as described in Sec. 4.2.2.3.
10. Whether or not the valve will be used in a corrosive environment (Sec.
1.1.3) determined by methods described in AWWA M27.
11. Type of valve ends—flanged (Sec. 4.4.1.3.1), tapping valve flange (Sec.
4.4.1.3.4), mechanical joint (Sec. 4.4.1.3.2), or push-on joint (Sec. 4.4.1.3.3).
12. Detailed description of wrench nut, if not in accordance with Sec. 4.4.7.
13. Special markings (Sec. 6.1), if required.
14. Whether or not bolting material with physical and chemical properties
other than ASTM A307 is required (Sec. 4.4.4). It is recommended that the
purchaser verify with the supplier the appropriateness of any alternative bolting
materials required. What alternative, if any, is desired in type of rustproofing for
bolts and nuts (Sec. 4.4.4).
15. Cutter diameter must be specified for tapping valves (Sec. 4.3.2).
NOTE: Tapping machine shell cutters are made in either full size (outside
diameter [OD] is full nominal size) or undersize (OD is less than full nominal size,
i.e., usually 1/2 in. (13 mm) less [MSS SP-113]). The purchaser should specify the size
of the shell cutter the valve must accept.
16. Special packaging for shipment as may be required for protection of
coatings.
III.B. Modification to Standard. Any modification to the provisions, defini-
tions, or terminology in the standard must be provided in the purchaser’s
specifications.
IV. Major Revisions. This is the first edition of this standard. It is similar
to ANSI/AWWA C509, Standard for Resilient-Seated Gate Valves for Water Supply
Service, with the most significant difference being that this standard allows thinner
shell wall thicknesses. In addition, in this standard, the body and bonnet must be
made from ductile iron whereas the body and bonnet in ANSI/AWWA C500 and
ANSI/AWWA C509 may be made from either ductile iron or gray iron.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Volunteer and Technical Support Group, (303) 794-7711 ext.
6283, FAX (303) 795-7603, or write to the department at 6666 W. Quincy Ave.,
Denver, CO 80235.
ix


American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C515-99
(First Edition)
AWWA STANDARD FOR
REDUCED-WALL, RESILIENT-SEATED
GATE VALVES FOR
WATER SUPPLY SERVICE
SECTION 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope
This standard covers reduced wall, resilient-seated gate valves with nonrising
stems (NRS) and outside screw-and-yoke (OS&Y) rising stems, including tapping
gate valves, for water supply service having a temperature range of 33° to 125°F (0.6°
to 52°C). These valves are intended for applications where fluid velocity does not
exceed 16 ft/second (4.9 m/s) when the valve is in the full open position.
1.1.1 Sizes. Gate valves covered by this standard are 4 in. (100 mm), 6 in.
(150 mm), 8 in. (200 mm), 10 in. (250 mm), 12 in. (300 mm), 14 in. (350 mm), and 16
in. (400 mm) NPS.* Sizes refer to the nominal diameter of the waterway through the
inlet and outlet connections and the closure area.
1.1.2 Valve pressure rating. The minimum design working water pressure
shall be 200 psig (1,380 kPa) for all sizes.
1.1.3 Conditions and materials not covered. This standard is not intended to
cover special conditions of installation or operation, such as built-in power drive,
installation in unusually corrosive soil, conveyance of unusually corrosive water, or
excessive water hammer. Such conditions are beyond the intended scope of this
standard and require special consideration in design and construction. Joint
accessories for end connections, such as bolts, gaskets, glands, and follower rings, are
not covered in this standard.
*Nominal pipe size.

2 AWWA C515-99
Sec. 1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to provide purchasers, manufacturers, and
suppliers with the minimum requirements for reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate
valves for water supply service, including materials, design, testing, inspection,
rejection, marking, and shipping.
Sec. 1.3 Application
This standard can be referenced in specifications for purchasing and receiving
reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves for water supply service. The stipulations of
this standard apply when this document has been referenced and then only to
reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves for water supply service.
SECTION 2: REFERENCES
This standard references the following documents. In their latest editions, they
form a part of this standard to the extent specified within this standard. In any case
of conflict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
ANSI* AS-568A—Aerospace Size Standard for O rings.
ANSI B16.1—Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, Class 25, 125, 250
and 800.
ANSI B16.10—Face-To-Face and End-To-End Dimensions of Valves.
ANSI B18.2.1—Square and Hex Bolts and Screws Inch Series Including Hex
Cap Screws and Lag Screws.
ANSI B18.2.2—Square and Hex Nuts (ISO 272).
ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10—American National Standard for Ductile-Iron and
Gray-Iron Fittings, 3 In. Through 48 In. (76 mm through 1,219 mm), for Water.
ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11—American National Standard for Rubber-Gasket
Joints for Ductile-Iron Pressure Pipe and Fittings.
ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53—American National Standard for Ductile-Iron Com-
pact Fittings, 3 In. Through 24 In. (76 mm through 610 mm) and 54 In. Through 64
In. (1,400 mm through 1,600 mm), for Water Service.
ANSI/AWWA C550—Standard for Protective Epoxy Interior Coatings for Valves
and Hydrants.
ANSI/AWWA C600—Installation of Ductile-Iron Water Mains and Their Appur-
tenances.
ASTM† A27—Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, for General
Applications.
ASTM A126—Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings for Valves, Flanges,
and Pipe Fittings.
ASTM A153—Standard Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and
Steel Hardware.

†American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959.

REDUCED-WALL, RESILIENT-SEATED GATE VALVES 3
ASTM A307—Standard Specification for Carbon Steel Externally Threaded

Standard Fasteners.
ASTM A395—Standard Specification for Ferritic Ductile Iron Pressure-Retain-
ing Castings for Use at Elevated Temperatures.
ASTM A536—Standard Specification for Ductile Iron Castings.
ASTM B16—Standard Specification for Free-Cutting Brass Rod, Bar and
Shapes for Use in Screw Machines.
ASTM B62—Standard Specification for Composition Bronze or Ounce Metal
Castings.
ASTM B98—Standard Specification for Copper-Silicon Alloy Rod, Bar, and
Shapes.
ASTM B124—Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod,
Bar, and Shapes.
ASTM B138—Standard Specification for Manganese Bronze Rod, Bar, and
Shapes.
ASTM B154—Standard Test Method of Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper and
Copper Alloys.
ASTM B283—Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Die Forgings
(Hot Pressed).
ASTM B584—Standard Specification for Copper Alloy Sand Castings for
General Applications.
ASTM B633—Standard Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of Zinc on
Iron and Steel.
ASTM B763—Standard Specification for Copper Alloy Sand Castings for Valve
Application.
ASTM B766—Standard Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of Cad-
mium.
ASTM B824—Standard Specification for General Requirements for Copper
Alloy Castings.
ASTM D395—Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property—Compression Set
ASTM D429—Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property—Adhesion to Rigid
Substrates.
ASTM D471—Standard Test Method for Rubber Property—Effect of Liquids.
ASTM D1149—Standard Test Method for Rubber Deterioration—Surface Ozone
Cracking in a Chamber (Flat Specimen).
ASTM D2000—Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automo-
tive Applications.
Fed. Spec.* HH-P-106d—Packing; Flax or Hemp.
Fed. Spec. TT-C-494b—Coating Compound, Bituminous, Solvent Type, Acid
Resistant.
MSS† SP-9—Standard Practice for Spot Facing for Bronze, Iron and Steel
Flanges.
MSS SP-60—Standard Practice for Connecting Flange Joint Between Tapping
Sleeves and Tapping Valves.
* Federal Specifications are available from Naval Publications and Form Center, 5801 Tabor
Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19120.
† Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, 127 Park St. N.E.,
Vienna, VA 22180.

4 AWWA C515-99
MSS SP-113—Standard Practice for Connecting Joint Between Tapping

Machines and Tapping Valves.
ANSI/SAE AS 568A*—Aerospace Size Standard for O-Rings.
SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard
1. Cosmetic defect: Blemishes that have no effect on the ability of the
component to meet the structural design and production test requirements of this
standard. Should the activity of plugging, welding, grinding, or repairing of such
blemish cause the component to fail these requirements, the blemish may not be
considered a cosmetic defect.
2. Flanged joint: The flanged and bolted joint as described in ANSI/AWWA
C110/A21.10 or ANSI B16.1, Class 125.
3. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces
materials or products.
4. Mechanical joint: The gasketed and bolted joint as described in ANSI/
AWWA C110/A21.10, ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11, or ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53.
5. NPS: Nominal pipe size.
6. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any
materials or work to be performed.
7. Push-on joint: The single rubber-gasket joint as described in ANSI/
AWWA C111/A21.11.
8. Structural defect: Flaws that cause the component to fail the structural
design or test requirements of this standard. This includes but is not limited to
imperfections that result in leakage through the walls of a casting, failure to meet
minimum wall thickness requirement, or failure to meet production tests.
9. Supplier: The party that supplies materials or services. A supplier may or
may not be the manufacturer.
10. Tapping valve: A special gate valve designed with end connections and an
unobstructed waterway to provide proper alignment and positioning of a tapping
sleeve, valve, and machine for tapping pipe dry or under pressure.
SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 4.1 Data to Be Supplied by the Manufacturer
If requested by the purchaser, the manufacturer or supplier shall furnish the
following information when supplying reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves.
4.1.1 Catalog data. The manufacturer shall supply catalog data, including
illustrations and a parts list that identifies the materials used for various parts. The
information shall be in sufficient detail to serve as a guide in the assembly and
disassembly of the valve and for ordering repair parts.
* Society of Automotive Engineers, 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096.

4.1.2 Weight information. The manufacturer shall furnish a statement of the

net assembled weight for each size of valve exclusive of joint accessories.
4.1.3 Assembly drawings. The manufacturer or supplier shall submit to the
purchaser one set of drawings showing the principal dimensions, construction details,
and materials used for all parts of the valve. All work shall be done and all valves
shall be furnished in accordance with these drawings after the drawings have been
reviewed and accepted by the purchaser.
Sec. 4.2 Materials
4.2.1 General. When reference is made to AWWA, ANSI, ASTM, or other
standards, it shall be understood that the latest revision thereof shall apply. All
materials used in valves produced under this standard shall conform to the
requirements stipulated in the following sections.
4.2.2 Physical and chemical properties. The requirements of AWWA, ANSI,
ASTM, or other standards to which reference is made in this text shall govern the
physical and chemical characteristics of the valve components. Whenever valve
components are to be made in conformance with AWWA, ANSI, ASTM, or other
standards that include test requirements or testing procedures, the manufacturer or
supplier shall comply with those procedures. The records of all tests shall, if required
by the purchaser’s specifications, be made available to the purchaser.
4.2.2.1 Gray iron. Gray iron shall conform to or exceed the requirements of
ASTM A126, Class B.
4.2.2.2 Ductile iron. Ductile iron shall conform to the requirements of ASTM
A395 or ASTM A536. In addition, ductile iron shall contain no more than 0.08
percent phosphorus.
4.2.2.3 Copper alloys. Copper alloys used in valves shall comply with the
following:
4.2.2.3.1 Copper alloy valve components shall be made to ASTM-recognized
alloy specifications with Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys (UNS)*
designations. Copper alloys are not limited to those specified in this standard. All
copper alloys, however, must meet the performance requirements of this standard,
including, but not limited to, minimum yield strength, chemical requirements, and
corrosion resistance.
4.2.2.3.2 Any copper alloy used in the cold-worked condition shall be capable of
passing the mercurous nitrate test in accordance with ASTM B154 to minimize
susceptibility to stress corrosion.
4.2.2.3.3 Waters in some areas have been shown to promote corrosion in the
form of dezincification or dealuminization. Copper alloys that contain more than 16
percent zinc shall not be used in such waters. If aluminum bronze is used, the alloys
shall be inhibited against dealuminization.
4.2.2.3.4 Copper alloys that contain more than 16 percent zinc shall not
contain less than 57 percent copper.
4.2.2.3.5 Copper alloys that contain 16 percent zinc or less shall not contain
less than 79 percent copper.
4.2.2.3.6 Valve components manufactured from some grades of manganese,
bronze, or some other materials are subject to stress corrosion. The manufacturer
shall design the valve and select materials to minimize stress corrosion.
*Joint publication of ASTM and SAE (ASTM DS-56E/SAE HS-1086, 1993).

6 AWWA C515-99
4.2.2.3.7 Copper alloys that contact drinking water shall not contain more
than 8 percent lead (US Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1986).
4.2.2.4 Gaskets. Gasket material shall be made of inorganic mineral fiber,
rubber composition, or paper that is free from corrosive ingredients. O-rings or other
suitable elastomeric seals may be used.
4.2.2.5 O-rings. O-rings shall meet the requirements of ASTM D2000 and
have physical properties suitable for the application.
4.2.2.6 Coatings. Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, valve coatings,
as required in Sec. 4.5.2, shall meet the performance requirements of Sec. 3.4.5 of
Fed. Spec. TT-C-494B for water-based enamel coating or black asphalt coatings or
ANSI/AWWA C550 for epoxy coatings, or equal.
4.2.2.7 Elastomers. Elastomers shall comply with the following:
a. Rubber seats shall be resistant to microbiological attack, copper poisoning,
and ozone attack.
b. Rubber-seat compounds shall contain no more than 8 parts per million
(ppm) of copper ion and shall include copper inhibitors to prevent copper degradation
of the rubber material.
c. Rubber-seat compounds shall be capable of withstanding an ozone
resistance test when tested in accordance with ASTM D1149. The tests shall be
conducted on unstressed samples for 70 h at 104°F (40°C) with an ozone
concentration of 500 parts per billion (ppb) without visible cracking in the surfaces of
the test samples after a test.
d. Rubber-seat compounds shall have a maximum compression set value of 20
percent when tested in accordance with ASTM D395, method B, for 22 h at 158°F
(70°C).
e. Rubber-seat compounds shall contain no more than 1.5 parts of wax per
100 parts of rubber hydrocarbon and shall have less than 2 percent volume increase
when tested in accordance with ASTM D471 after being immersed in distilled water
at 73.4°F ± 2°F (23°C ± 1°C) for 70 h. Reclaimed rubber shall not be used.
f. Rubber-seat compounds shall be free of vegetable oils, vegetable oil
derivatives, animal fats, and animal oils.
Sec. 4.3 General Design
4.3.1 Structural design. All parts of all valves shall be designed to withstand
(1) an internal test pressure of twice the rated design working pressure of the valve;
and (2) the full-rated internal working pressure when the closure member is cycled
once from a fully open to a fully closed position against the full-rated unbalanced
working water pressure. In addition to these pressure requirements, the valve assembly
and mechanism shall be capable of withstanding an input torque as follows: 4 in.
(100 mm) NPS—200 ft·lb (270 Nm); 6 in. (150 mm), 8 in. (200 mm), 10 in. (250 mm),
12 in. (300 mm), 14 in. (350 mm), and 16 in. (400 mm) NPS—300 ft·lb (406 Nm).
4.3.2 Size of waterway. With the valve open, an unobstructed waterway shall
be provided. The waterway shall have a diameter equal to or larger than the full
nominal diameter of the valve. For tapping valves, the size of the waterway shall
include appropriate clearance for the diameter of the tapping machine cutter
recommended by the valve manufacturer.
Sec. 4.4 Detailed Design
4.4.1 Body and bonnet.
4.4.1.1 Material. The body and bonnet shall be made of ductile iron.

Table 1 Minimum thickness of body and bonnet
Valve Diameter (NPS) Minimum Metal Thickness

in. (mm) in. (mm)
4 (100) 0.31 (7.9)
6 (150) 0.32 (8.1)
8 (200) 0.34 (8.6)
10 (250) 0.36 (9.1)
12 (300) 0.38 (9.7)
14 (350) 0.45 (11.4)
16 (400) 0.50 (12.7)
4.4.1.2 Shell thickness. Shell thickness at no point shall be less than the
minimum metal thickness shown in Table 1.
4.4.1.3 Valve ends. End connections shall conform to one of the following
requirements.
4.4.1.3.1 Flanged ends. The end flanges of flanged valves shall conform to
dimensions and drillings of ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 or ASME/ANSI B16.1, Class
125, unless explicitly provided otherwise in the purchaser’s specifications. Unless
spot-facing is required by the purchaser’s specifications, the bolt holes of the end
flanges shall not be spot-faced except when the thickness at any point within the
spot-face area, as defined in MSS SP-9, exceeds the required minimum flange
thickness of ASME/ANSI B16.1 by more than indicated in Table 2 or if the flange is
not sufficiently flat. If the foregoing limit is exceeded, either spot-facing or backfacing
may be used to meet the requirements. When required, all spot-facing shall be done
in accordance with MSS SP-9. Bolt holes shall straddle the vertical centerline of the
valve, unless otherwise specified by the purchaser. The laying lengths of flanged
valves 12 in. (300 mm) and smaller shall conform to the requirements for double disc
gate valves listed in Table 1 of ASME/ANSI B16.1.
4.4.1.3.2 Mechanical-joint ends. Mechanical-joint bell dimensions shall con-
form to ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10, ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11, or ANSI/AWWA
C153/A21.53. Slots with the same width as the diameter of the bolt holes may be
provided instead of holes in the bell flange where the valve body and bonnet interfere
with the joint assembly.
4.4.1.3.3 Push-on joint ends. Push-on joints shall conform to the requirements
of ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11.
4.4.1.3.4 Tapping-valve flanges.
a. The end flange of a tapping valve that forms a joint with the tapping
sleeve shall conform to the dimensions of MSS SP-60 in sizes 4 in. (100 mm) through
12 in. (300 mm) NPS. For larger sizes, flange dimensions shall be as agreed to by the
purchaser and supplier.
b. The connecting flange of the tapping valve mating with the tapping
machine must be parallel and concentric with the opposite flange and concentric with
the waterway to provide proper alignment for the tapping operation. The end flange
of a tapping valve that forms a joint with the tapping machine shall conform to the
dimensions of MSS SP-113.
4.4.1.4 Yokes on OS&Y valves. On OS&Y valves, the yoke on bonnets may be
integral or of bolted-on construction. If the yoke is not an integral part of the bonnet,

8 AWWA C515-99
Table 2 Excess flange thickness
Nominal Valve Size (NPS) Excess Thickness (minimum)
in. (mm) in. (mm)

1
4–12 (100–300) /8 (3.2)
3
14–16 (400) /16 (4.8)
it shall be made of ductile iron or gray iron. The design shall be such that a hand
cannot be jammed between a yoke and the handwheel.
4.4.2 Gate.
4.4.2.1 Material. The ferrous material of the gate shall be made of ductile
iron or gray iron.
4.4.2.1.1 Resilient seat. Resilient seats shall be bonded or mechanically
attached to the gate. The proof-of-design test method used for bonding or vulcanizing
shall be ASTM D429; either method A or method B. For method A, the minimum
strength shall not be less than 250 psi (1,725 kPa). For method B, the peel strength
shall not be less than 75 lb/in. (13.2 N/mm). All exposed mechanical attaching devices
and hardware used to retain the resilient seat shall be of a corrosion-resistant
material.
4.4.3 Guides.
4.4.3.1 If guiding is required to obtain shutoff, the design shall be such that
corrosion in the guide area does not affect seating.
4.4.4 Bolting. Bolting materials, excluding joint accessories, shall have the
physical strength requirements of ASTM A307 and shall have either regular square
or hexagonal heads with dimensions conforming to ANSI B18.2.1. Bolts, studs, and
nuts shall be (1) cadmium-plated (ASTM B766) or zinc-coated (ASTM A153 or B633);
or (2) rustproofed by some other process disclosed to and acceptable to the purchaser.
The purchaser may specify bolts, studs, and nuts made from a specified corro-
sion-resistant material, such as low-zinc bronze, nickel-copper alloy, or stainless steel.
4.4.5 Stem and stem nut.
4.4.5.1.1 Valve stems shall be made from copper alloys that have a yield
strength of 20,000 psi (137,800 kPa) or greater (see Table 3).
4.4.5.1.2 Stem nuts shall be made from copper alloys that have a yield
strength of 14,000 psi (96,500 kPa) or greater (see Table 3).
4.4.5.2 NRS stems. The stem must have a thrust collar that shall be made
integral with the stem.
4.4.5.3 OS&Y stems. OS&Y valve stems shall be of sufficient length so as to
be at least flush with the top of the stem nut after the gate is fully closed. The design
shall be such as to prevent any possibility of the gate leaving the stem or the stem
turning during the operation of the valve.
4.4.5.4 Threads. The threads of stems and stem nuts shall be of Acme,
modified Acme, stub Acme, or one-half V type. Stems and stem nuts shall be threaded
straight and true and shall work true and smooth and in perfect line throughout the
lift of opening and thrust of closing the valve.
4.4.5.5 Diameter. The stem diameters and turns to open shall be as shown in
Table 4.
4.4.6 Stem sealing. The sealing system shall be designed to be watertight at
the rated working pressure of the valve.

Table 3 Stem and stem nut copper alloys
Copper Alloy*
ASTM Specification Number Alloy Designation
ASTM B16 UNS C36000
ASTM B138 UNS C67500
ASTM B283
Valve Stems ASTM B283 UNS C67600

ASTM B98 UNS C66100
UNS C86200
ASTM B584 UNS C86500†
UNS C86700†
UNS C87600
UNS C86500†
UNS C99400
UNS C99500
ASTM B62 UNS C83600
Stem Nuts ASTM B124 UNS C37700

UNS C83450
UNS C86700†
UNS C86700†
UNS C99400
UNS C99500
*Alloys actually used or specified not limited to those listed—see Sec. 4.2.2.3.1.
†Compliance with AWWA C515 requires the manufacturer to specify minimum mechanical and/or chemical requirements
that exceed the minimums required for this alloy by the ASTM specification(s) listed.
Table 4 Minimum diameter of stem and minimum number of turns to open
Valve Size (NPS) NRS Valves OS&Y Valves
Minimum Diameter Minimum Number Minimum Diameter of Minimum Number

of Stem of Turns of Stem Stem Unthreaded Section of Turns of Stem to
(at base of thread)* to Open and Thread OD† Open‡
in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)

4 (100) 0.859 (21.82) 12 1 (25.4) 9
6 (150) 1.000 (25.40) 18 11/8 (28.6) 18
8 (200) 1.000 (25.40) 24 11/4 (31.8) 25
10 (250) 1.125 (28.58) 30 13/8 (34.9) 31
12 (300) 1.188 (30.18) 36 13/8 (34.9) 37
14 (350) 1.250 (31.75) 42 17/16 (36.5) 42
16 (400) 1.438 (36.53) 48 11/2 (38.1) 48
*The diameter of the stem at the base of the thread or at any point below that portion shaped to receive the wrench nut on
NRS valves, or the minimum diameter of the stem unthreaded section and thread OD for OS&Y valves shall not be less
than specified.
†Outside diameter.
‡Valves shown for 6–12 in. NPS sizes are for single-lead threads. If a double-lead thread is used, minimum turns become 13,
17, 21, and 25 for sizes 6–12 in. NPS inclusive.

10 AWWA C515-99
4.4.6.1 NRS valves.

4.4.6.1.1 Materials. A stem seal plate or O-ring packing plate shall be made
of ductile iron or gray iron. Stem openings, if bushed, or stem-seal cartridges, shall be
of a copper alloy, or a synthetic polymer with physical properties suitable for the
application. Stem-seal plate bolts and nuts shall conform to the requirements as
specified in Sec. 4.4.
4.4.6.1.2 Stem-seal plate. On NRS valves, the stem opening, thrust bearing
recess, and bonnet face of the stem-seal plate shall be machined or finished in a
manner that will provide surfaces that are smooth and either parallel or perpendicu-
lar to the stem axis within 0.5°.
4.4.6.1.3 Stem seal. When an O-ring or other pressure-actuated stem seal
is used, the design shall incorporate at least two such seals, the dimensions of the
O-rings shall be in accordance with SAE AS-568A.
4.4.6.2 OS&Y valves.
4.4.6.2.1 Stuffing boxes.
a. Material. Stuffing-box packing shall be made of flax conforming to Fed.
Spec. HH-P-106d or other appropriate material. Hemp, asbestos, or jute packing shall
not be used.
b. Stuffing-box dimensions. Stuffing boxes shall have a depth not less than
the diameter of the valve stem. The internal diameter shall be large enough to
contain adequate packing to prevent leakage around the stem.
c. Installation. Stuffing boxes shall be packed properly and ready for service
when valves are delivered to the purchaser. Stuffing-box bolts may need to be
adjusted to stop leakage at the time of installation.
4.4.6.2.2 Packing glands, gland followers, gland bolts, and gland-bolt nuts. The
packing gland assembly shall be of solid, solid-bushed, or two-piece design. Followers
may be formed as a flanged end on the gland or as a separate item.
a. Packing glands. Packing glands shall be made of a copper alloy, synthetic
polymer, gray iron, or ductile iron.
b. Gland follower. If a gland follower is used, it shall be made of either
ductile or gray iron, or a copper alloy.
c. Packing-gland bolts and nuts. Gland bolts shall be made either of a
copper alloy or rustproofed steel according to Sec. 4.4.4. Gland-bolt nuts shall be
made of a copper alloy.
4.4.6.3 Stem-seal replacement.
4.4.6.3.1 NRS valves. NRS valves shall be designed so that the seal above the
stem collar can be replaced with the valve under pressure in the fully open position.
4.4.6.3.2 OS&Y valves. Design of the valve shall be such that the stuffing box
can be packed when the valve is in the fully open position and under pressure.
4.4.7 Wrench nuts and handwheels. Wrench nuts and handwheels shall be
made of gray iron or ductile iron. Unless otherwise explicitly required by the
purchaser’s specifications, the wrench nuts shall be 115/16 in. (49.2 mm) square at the
top, 2 in. (50.8 mm) square at the base, and 13/4 in. (44.5 mm) high. The outside
diameter of handwheels shall not be less than those given in Table 5. Nuts shall have
a flanged base on which shall be cast an arrow at least 2 in. (50.8 mm) long showing
the direction of the opening. The word “OPEN,” in 1/2-in. (12.7-mm) or larger letters,
shall be cast on the nut to indicate clearly the direction to turn the wrench when
opening the valve. Handwheels shall be of the spoke type only. Webbed or disc types
are not permissible. An arrow showing the direction to turn the handwheel to open

Table 5 Diameter of handwheels*
Size of Valve (NPS) Minimum Diameter of Handwheel

in. (mm) in. (mm)
4 (100) 10 (254)
6 (150) 12 (305)
8 (200) 14 (356)
10 (250) 16 (406)
12 (300) 16 (406)
*For sizes larger than 12 in. (300 mm), consult the manufacturer.
the valve, with the word “OPEN” in 1/2-in. (12.7-mm) or larger letters in a break in
the arrow shaft, shall be cast on the rim of the handwheel so as to be easily readable.
4.4.7.1 Operating mechanism. NRS valves are to be supplied with wrench
nuts or handwheels. OS&Y valves are to be supplied with handwheels.
4.4.7.2 Direction of opening. The standard direction of opening is counter-
clockwise as viewed from the top. Valves opening in the opposite direction (clockwise)
may be specified.
4.4.7.3 Method of securing. Wrench nuts or handwheels shall be fitted to the
valve stem on NRS valves. Handwheels shall be fitted to the stem nut on OS&Y
valves. In both cases, they shall be secured by mechanical means.
4.4.7.4 Color coding. Wrench nuts and handwheels that open the valve by
turning to the right (clockwise) shall be painted red, and wrench nuts and
handwheels that open the valve by turning to the left (counterclockwise) shall be
painted black.
4.4.8 Gaskets. Gaskets, O-rings, or other suitable elastomeric seals shall be
used on all flanged joints intended to be watertight.
4.4.9 Gearing. If they are required by the purchaser’s specifications, gears
shall be accurately formed and smooth running, with a pinion shaft operating in a
bronze, self-lubricating, or permanently sealed antifriction bearing.
4.4.9.1 Material. Geared valves shall be equipped with steel, ductile-iron, or
gray-iron gears. If cast-iron gears are furnished, the pinion shall be steel. Material
for steel gears shall be ASTM A27 Grade U-60-30 or equal.
4.4.9.2 Gear cases. Valves using O-ring or V-type stem seals may have the
gear case attached directly to the valve. When geared valves are furnished, enclosed
gear cases are required unless definitely excluded by the purchaser’s requirements.
4.4.9.3 Indicators. When required by the purchaser’s specifications, geared
valves shall be equipped with indicators to show the position of the gate in relation
to the waterway.
4.4.9.4 Gear ratio. Gear ratios shall not be less than those shown in Table 6.
Sec. 4.5 Fabrication
4.5.1 Workmanship.
4.5.1.1 Interchangeable parts. All parts shall conform to their required
dimensions and shall be free from defects that could prevent proper functioning of
the valve. All like parts of valves of the same model and size produced by the same
manufacturer shall be interchangeable.

12 AWWA C515-99
Table 6 Gear ratios
Valve Diameter (NPS) Minimum Gear Ratio
in. mm.
16 (400) 2:1
4.5.1.2 Castings. All castings shall be clean and sound without defects that
will weaken their structure or impair their service. Plugging, welding, or repairing of
cosmetic defects is allowed. Repairing of structural defects is not allowed unless
agreed to by the purchaser. Repaired valves shall comply with the testing
requirements of this standard. Repairs within the bolt circle of any flange face are
not allowed.
4.5.2 Coating.
4.5.2.1 Interior ferrous surfaces. A coating conforming to the performance
requirements of ANSI/AWWA C550 shall be applied to the interior ferrous surfaces of
the body and bonnet that are in contact with liquid. Other exposed interior ferrous
surfaces except finished or bearing surfaces shall be coated with a material specified
in Sec. 4.2.2.6.
4.5.2.2 Exterior ferrous surfaces. A coating material as specified in Sec.
4.2.2.6 shall be applied to all exterior ferrous surfaces.
SECTION 5: VERIFICATION
Sec. 5.1 Testing
5.1.1 Proof of design testing.
5.1.1.1 Hydrostatic gate test. One prototype valve of each size and class of
the manufacturer’s design shall be hydrostatically tested with twice the specified
rated pressure applied to one side of the gate and zero pressure on the other side. The
test is to be made in each direction across the gate for a minimum period of 5 min.
The manufacturer may make special provisions to prevent leakage past the seats. No
part of the valve or gate shall remain visually deformed by the test.
5.1.1.2 Torque test. A prototype of each size shall be overtorqued in the
closed and open positions to demonstrate that no distortion of the valve stem or
damage to the resilient seat occurred as evidenced by the failure to seal at the rated
pressure. The torque applied to the main valve stem shall be 250 ft·lb (340 Nm) for 4-
in. (100-mm) NPS valves; 350 ft·lb (475 Nm) for 6-in. (150-mm), 8-in. (200-mm), 10-
in. (250-mm), and 12-in. (300-mm) NPS valves; and 400 ft·lb (545 Nm) for 14-in. (350-
mm) and 16-in. (400-mm) NPS valves.
5.1.1.3 Leakage test. One prototype valve of each size shall be fully opened
and closed to a seal for 500 complete cycles with sufficient flow that the valve is at
the rated working pressure for the pressure differential at the point of closing. The
valves shall be drip-tight under the rated pressure differential applied alternately to
each side of the gate after the completion of the tests.
5.1.1.4 Hydrostatic shell test. One prototype of each valve size shall be tested
to 2.5 times the rated working pressure with the gate in the open position. For a
period of 5 min, there shall be no rupture or cracking of the valve body, valve bonnet,

or seal plate. Leakage at pressure-containing joints shall not be a cause for failure of
the test. No part of the valve shall remain visibly deformed after the test.
5.1.2 Production testing. After manufacture, each gate valve shall be sub-
jected to operation and hydrostatic tests at the manufacturer’s plant as specified in
this section.
5.1.2.1 Operation test. Each valve shall be operated through a complete cycle
to ensure proper functioning of all parts. Any defects in workmanship shall be
corrected, and the test repeated until a satisfactory performance is demonstrated.
5.1.2.2 Shell test. A hydrostatic test pressure equal to twice the rated
working pressure of the valve shall be applied to the assembled valve with the gate
in the open position. The test shall show no leakage through the metal, pressure-
containing joints, or stem seals.
5.1.2.3 Seat test. A hydrostatic test shall be made from each direction at a
minimum of the rated working pressure to prove the sealing ability of each valve
from both directions of flow. The test shall show no leakage through the metal,
pressure-containing joints, or past the seat.
Sec. 5.2 Plant Inspection and Rejection
All work performed under this standard, except prototype testing, shall be
subject to inspection and acceptance by the purchaser who shall have access to all
places of manufacture where these valves are being produced and tested. Any valve
or part that may be determined as not conforming to the requirements of this
standard shall be made satisfactory, or it shall be rejected and repaired or replaced
by the manufacturer. Repaired valves must be acceptable to the purchaser and
specifically accepted when submitted or resubmitted. Whether the purchaser has a
representative at the plant or not, an affidavit of compliance may be required from
the manufacturer as provided in Sec. 6.3 of this standard.
SECTION 6: DELIVERY
Sec. 6.1 Marking
Markings shall be cast on the bonnet or body, or stamped on a permanently
affixed corrosion resistant tag of each valve. Markings shall show the manufacturer’s
name or mark, the year the valve casting was made, the size of the valve, letters
“C515,” and the designation of working water pressure, for example, “200W.” Special
markings in addition to these can be supplied when specified by the purchaser’s
requirements on agreement between purchaser and manufacturer.
Sec. 6.2 Preparation for Shipment
Valves shall be complete in all details when shipped. Valves shall be drained
before shipment. Handwheels and valve accessories may be packed separately.
Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance
When required by the purchaser’s specifications, the manufacturer shall furnish
the purchaser with an affidavit stating that the valve and all materials used in its
construction conform to the applicable requirements of this standard and the
purchaser’s specifications, and that all tests specified therein have been performed
and all test requirements have been met.

APPENDIX A
Installation, Operation, and Maintenance of
Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate Valves
This appendix is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C515.
SECTION A.1: GENERAL

Resilient-seated gate valves form a significant component part of many fire-fight-
ing or water-distribution systems. Failure of a resilient-seated gate valve in such
systems, either as a result of faulty installation or improper maintenance, could
result in extensive damage and costly repairs. In addition, many resilient-seated gate
valves are installed in buried-service or underground applications. Problems or
malfunctions of the valves because of faulty installation or improper maintenance
can result in extensive and costly unearthing operations to effectively correct or
eliminate the problem. Many resilient-seated gate-valve problems and failures can be
traced back to improper handling, storage, installation, operation, or maintenance
procedures.
SECTION A.2: UNLOADING

All valves should be unloaded carefully. Each valve should be carefully lowered
from the truck to the ground; it should not be dropped. In the case of larger valves,
forklifts or slings around the body of the valve or under the skids should be used for
unloading. Only hoists and slings with adequate load capacity to handle the weight
of the valve or valves should be used. Hoists should not be hooked into or chains
fastened around yokes, gearing, motors, cylinders, or handwheels. Failure to carefully
follow these recommendations is likely to result in damage to the valve.
SECTION A.3: RECEIVING INSPECTION

Resilient-seated gate valves should be inspected at the time of receipt for
damage during shipment. The initial inspection should verify compliance with
specifications, direction of opening, size and shape of operating nut, number of turns
to open or close, and type of end connections. A visual inspection of the seating
surfaces should be performed to detect any damage during shipment or scoring of the
seating surfaces. Inspection personnel should look for bent stems, broken hand-
wheels, cracked parts, loose bolts, missing parts and accessories, and any other
evidence of mishandling during shipment. Each valve should be operated through
one complete opening-and-closing cycle in the position in which it is to be installed.
14

SECTION A.4: STORAGE

Valves should be stored indoors. If outside storage is required, means should be
provided to protect them from weather elements. During outside storage, valves
should be protected from the weather, sunlight, ozone, and foreign materials. In
colder climates where valves may be subject to freezing temperatures, it is absolutely
essential to prevent water from collecting in the valves. Failure to do so may result in
a cracked valve casting and/or deterioration of the resilient seat material.
SECTION A.5: INSTALLATION

Instructions supplied by manufacturers should be reviewed in detail before
valves are installed. At the job site prior to installation, each valve should be visually
inspected and any foreign material in the interior portion of the valve should be
removed. A detailed inspection of the valve as outlined in Sec. A.3 should be
performed prior to installation.
Sec. A.5.1 Bolts
All bolts should be checked for proper tightness and protected by the installer to
prevent corrosion, either with a suitable paint or by polyethylene wrapping or other
suitable means of corrosion protection.
Sec. A.5.2 Underground Installation
Valves in water-distribution lines shall, where practical, be located in easily
accessible areas.
A.5.2.1 During installation, there is the possibility of foreign materials inadvert-
ently entering the valve. Foreign material can damage internal working parts during
operation of the gate valve. For this reason, gate valves should be installed in the
closed position. Each valve should be placed on firm footing in the trench to prevent
settling and excessive strain on the connection to the pipe. Piping systems should be
supported and aligned to avoid damage to the valve.
A.5.2.2 A valve box or vault should be provided for each valve used in a buried-
service application. The valve box should be installed so as not to transmit loads or
stress to the valve, valve stem, or piping system. The valve box should be centered
over the operating nut of the valve with the box cover flush with the surface of the
finished area or such other level as directed by the owner. Valve boxes should be of
such a design that a traffic load on the top of the box is not transmitted to the valve
stem or piping system.
A.5.2.3 Valves buried in unusually deep trenches have special provisions for
operating the valve. These are either a riser on the stem to permit a normal key to be
used or a notation on valve records that a long key will be required.
A.5.2.4 When valves with exposed gearing or operating mechanisms are installed
belowground, a vault designed to allow pipe clearance and prevent settling on the pipe
should be provided. The operating nut should be accessible from the top opening of the
vault with a valve key. The size of the vault should provide for easy removal of the
valve bonnet and internal parts of the valve for purposes of repair. Consideration

16 AWWA C515-99
should be given to the possible entry of groundwater or surface water and to the need
to provide for the disposal thereof.
Sec. A.5.3 Aboveground Installations
Valves installed aboveground or in a plant piping system should be supported
and aligned to avoid damage to the valve. Valves should not be used to correct
misalignment of piping.
Sec. A.5.4 Inspection
After installation and before pressurization of the valve, all pressure-containing
bolting (bonnet, seal plate, packing gland, and end connections) should be inspected
for adequate tightness to prevent leakage. In addition, an inspection should be made
for adequate tightness of all tapped and plugged openings to the valve interior.
Proper inspection at this time will minimize the possibility of leaks after the piping
system has been pressurized.
Sec. A.5.5 Testing
To prevent time lost searching for leaks, it is recommended that valve
excavations not be backfilled until pressure tests have been completed. After
installation, it is desirable to test newly installed piping sections, including valves, at
some pressure above the system design pressure. The test pressure should not exceed
the rated working pressure of the valve. After the test, steps should be taken to
relieve any trapped pressure in the body of the valve. The resilient-seated gate valve
should not be operated in either the opening or closing direction at differential
pressures above the rated working pressure. It should be noted that valves seat
better at or near the rated working pressure of the valve. In addition, wear or foreign
material may damage valve seating surfaces and may cause leakage (AWWA C600).
Sec. A.5.6 Records
Once the valve is installed, the valve location, size, make, type, date of
installation, number of turns to open, direction of opening, and other information
deemed pertinent should be entered on permanent records.
Sec. A.5.7 Application Hazards
Resilient-seated gate valves should not be installed in applications or for service
other than those recommended by the manufacturer. The following list of precautions
is not all inclusive but will help avoid some applications hazards.
A.5.7.1 Resilient-seated gate valves should not be installed in lines where
service pressure will exceed the rated working pressure of the valve.
A.5.7.2 Resilient-seated gate valves should not be used for throttling service
unless the design is specifically recommended for that purpose or accepted in
advance by the manufacturer.
A.5.7.3 Resilient-seated gate valves should not be used in applications that are
exposed to freezing temperatures unless sufficient flow is maintained through the
valve or other protection is provided to prevent freezing.
A.5.7.4 Pipe, fittings, and valves installed in underground piping are generally
joined with push-on or mechanical joints. These joints are considered unrestrained-
type joints because no significant restraint against longitudinal separation is
provided.

Gate valves should not be installed at a dead end or near a bend in a pipeline
without proper and adequate restraint to support the valve and prevent it from
blowing off the end of the line. Rigid piping systems incorporating flanged valves are
not recommended for buried service.
Thrust blocks, restrained joints, or other means of restraint are needed on or
adjacent to valves on pipelines or where unusual conditions exist, such as high
internal pressures, adjacent fittings, or unsuitable soils.
A.5.7.5 To prevent damage, 4-in. (100-mm) NPS, resilient-seated gate valves
should not be operated with input torques greater than 200 ft·lb (270 Nm). Gate
valves 6-in. (150-mm) NPS to 16-in. (400-mm) NPS should not be operated with input
torques greater than 300 ft·lb (406 Nm).
SECTION A.6: MAINTENANCE

Sec. A.6.1 Valve Exercising
Each valve should be operated through a full cycle and returned to its normal
position on a time schedule that is designed to prevent a buildup of tuberculation or
other deposits that could render the valve inoperable or prevent a tight shutoff. The
interval of time between operations of valves in critical locations, or valves subjected
to severe operating conditions, should be shorter than for other less important
installations, but it can be whatever time period is found to be satisfactory based on
local experience. The number of turns required to complete the operation cycle should
be recorded and compared with permanent installation records to ensure full gate
travel.
When using portable, auxiliary power actuators with input torque capacities
exceeding the maximum operating torques recommended in Sec. A.5.7.5, extreme
care should be taken to avoid applying excessive torque to the valve stem. If the
actuator has a torque-limiting device, it should be set below the values in Sec.
A.5.7.5. If there is no torque-limiting device, the recommended practice is to stop the
power actuator three or four turns before the valve is fully opened or fully closed and
complete the operation manually.
Maintenance should be performed at the time a malfunction is discovered to
avoid a return trip to the same valve or to prevent neglecting it altogether. A
recording system should be adopted that provides a written record of valve location,
condition, maintenance, and each subsequent inspection of the valve.
Sec. A.6.2 Inspection
Each valve should be operated through one complete operating cycle. If the stem
action is tight, the operation should be repeated several times until proper operation
is achieved. With the gate in the partially open position, a visual inspection should be
performed, where practical, to check for leakage at all joints, connections, and areas
of packing or seals. If leakage is observed, all defective O-rings, seals, gaskets, or
end-connection sealing members should be replaced. If the leakage cannot be
corrected immediately, the nature of the leakage should be reported promptly to those
who are responsible for repairs. If the valve is inoperable or irreparable, its location
should be clearly established to prevent loss of time for repair crews. The condition of
the valve and, if possible, the gate position should be reported to the personnel

18 AWWA C515-99
responsible for repairs. In addition, fire departments and other appropriate

municipal departments should be informed that the valve is out of service.
Sec. A.6.3 Record Keeping
To carry out a meaningful inspection and maintenance program, it is essential
that the location, make, type, size, and date of installation of each valve be recorded.
Depending on the type of record-keeping system used, other information may be
entered in the permanent record. When a resilient-seated gate valve is inspected, an
entry should be made in the permanent record indicating date of inspection and
condition of the valve. If repair work is necessary, it should be indicated, and, on
completion of the work, the nature of the repairs and date completed should be
recorded.
SECTION A.7: REPAIRS

Leakage, broken parts, hard operation, and other major defects should be
corrected by a repair crew as soon as possible after the defect is reported. If repairs
are to be performed in the field, the repair crew should take a full complement of
spare parts to the jobsite. Provisions should be made to isolate the defective valve
from water pressure and relieve internal trapped pressure prior to performing any
corrective maintenance. Disassembly of the valve should be accomplished in
accordance with the procedure supplied by the manufacturer.
After repair of the valve, the operating mechanism should be cycled through one
complete operating cycle. With full line pressure applied to the valve in the open
position, an inspection should be made to detect leakage in the areas around the seal
plate, bonnet, packing gland, and body-end connections. A record should be made to
indicate that the valve has been repaired and is in working condition. Any markings
that the valve is inoperable should be deleted. In addition, fire departments and
other appropriate municipal departments should be informed of the satisfactory
repair of the valve.




1P-7.5M-43515-7/99-CM Printed on recycled paper.

Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate Valves For Water Supply Service

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate Valves For Water Supply Service

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate Valves For Water Supply Service

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

American Water Works Association

Effective date: Sept. 1, 1999.

AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

American National Standard

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Joseph J. Gemin, Chair

Jerry Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (AWWA)

Joseph J. Gemin, Chair

General Interest Members

K.M. Bell, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Jerry Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (MSS)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

AWWA STANDARD FOR

*Nominal pipe size.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Sec. 1.2 Purpose

*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

ASTM A307—Standard Specification for Carbon Steel Externally Threaded

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

MSS SP-113—Standard Practice for Connecting Joint Between Tapping

* Society of Automotive Engineers, 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

4.1.2 Weight information. The manufacturer shall furnish a statement of the

*Joint publication of ASTM and SAE (ASTM DS-56E/SAE HS-1086, 1993).

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Table 1 Minimum thickness of body and bonnet

Valve Diameter (NPS) Minimum Metal Thickness

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Table 2 Excess flange thickness

Nominal Valve Size (NPS) Excess Thickness (minimum)

in. (mm) in. (mm)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Table 3 Stem and stem nut copper alloys

Valve Stems ASTM B283 UNS C67600

Stem Nuts ASTM B124 UNS C37700

Table 4 Minimum diameter of stem and minimum number of turns to open

Valve Size (NPS) NRS Valves OS&Y Valves

Minimum Diameter Minimum Number Minimum Diameter of Minimum Number

in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

4.4.6.1 NRS valves.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Table 5 Diameter of handwheels*

Size of Valve (NPS) Minimum Diameter of Handwheel

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved

Table 6 Gear ratios