API 600 vs API 602: Key Differences in Forged Steel Gate Valves

Choosing the right gate valve standard can affect safety, efficiency, and cost—especially in high-pressure or high-temperature systems. This guide breaks down API 600 vs API 602, focusing on their application, design, and what that means for engineers and procurement teams working in tough industrial settings.

What is API 600?

API 600 is an American Petroleum Institute standard for cast steel gate valves, commonly found in processing plants and pipeline systems. These valves are built for larger sizes, usually 2” and above, and are common in systems where flow needs to be isolated completely.

They often feature bolted bonnets, full-bore designs, and are designed to handle lower pressure ranges compared to forged options. These are widely used in oil refineries, water systems, and power plants where volume and size matter more than compactness.

What is API 602?

API 602, on the other hand, applies to forged steel gate valves—typically compact in design and built for smaller pipe sizes (generally under 2”). These valves are designed for high-pressure and high-temperature service, making them a better fit for critical applications in power, oil & gas, and petrochemical plants.

API 602 valves are also known for their tight shutoff, strength, and ability to withstand thermal stress. You’ll often find bolted bonnet or welded bonnet designs, depending on service conditions.

API 600 vs API 602: Differences

Feature	API 600	API 602
Valve Size	Typically 2″ and larger	2″ and smaller
Design	Cast steel, larger body	Forged steel, compact design
Bonnet Type	Bolted bonnet only	Bolted or welded bonnet
Typical Use	General service	High-pressure, high-temp service
Applications	Refineries, water plants	Power, petrochemical, oil & gas

Why a Forged Valve Manufacturer’s Expertise Matters in Selection

Understanding valve standards is one part—selecting the right valve for the job is another. That’s why working with an experienced forged valve manufacturer like CLDG Valves makes a big difference.

CLDG’s forged gate valves follow API 602 and are designed for demanding environments that require reliability and long service life. With options for custom materials, bonnets, trims, and connections, their products meet tight project specs while also being stock-ready for fast delivery.

If your project demands high-pressure valves, compact configurations, or compliance with strict valve selection criteria, working with a specialized forged manufacturer reduces downtime and improves performance.

You can explore CLDG’s full range of forged steel gate valves here.

Contact CLDG for Your Forged Valve Needs

When choosing between API 600 vs API 602, think beyond the standard—consider the actual service conditions and project requirements. For high-pressure, compact, and critical-use applications, API 602 forged valves are often the better fit.

CLDG Valves has over 20 years of expertise in forged steel valve production and global delivery. If you’re unsure what standard suits your project, their team can guide you with clarity and speed.Need help with valve selection? Contact us today and get expert support from a trusted forged valve manufacturer.