API 602
Standard Specification

API 602 Gate Valves

What API 602 requires for gate valves — applicability, key and testing requirements, the alternative standards, and compliant supply with full certification.

What does API 602 require for gate valves?

API 602 (Gate, Globe, and Check Valves for Sizes DN 100 and Smaller for the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries, American Petroleum Institute (API)) sets the design, material and testing requirements for gate valves in its scope. API 602 covers compact forged steel gate, globe, and check valves in sizes NPS 1½ and smaller for petroleum and natural gas service. Unlike API 600 which governs cast steel large-bore gate valves, API 602 addresses the small bore segment where forged construction is standard and compact face-to-face dimensions save weight and cost. API 602 valves are ubiquitous in instrument root valve, bypass, sample valve, and small utility applications.

Applicable Pressure Classes

Class 800Class 1500Class 2500

Key Requirements

  • Forged or bar-stock steel body - no cast steel for small-bore API 602 service
  • Reduced face-to-face dimensions compared to ASME B16.10 (compact design)
  • Class 800 (PN 138) suitable for most utility and instrument root valve applications
  • Class 1500 and 2500 available for high-pressure gas service
  • Blowout-proof stem design required
  • Integral body seat or renewable seat ring options
  • Packing gland accessible without removing valve from line

Testing Requirements

  • Shell test: 1.5× cold working pressure
  • Seat leakage test: 1.1× cold working pressure
  • Back seat test per API 598

Alternative Standards for Gate Valves

Other standards that also govern gate valves — useful for spec cross-acceptance.

Related Standards

Reviewed by Valve Standards Engineering, Vajra Industrial SolutionsDiscipline: Industrial Valve Standards & ComplianceLast reviewed: 20 June 2026

Connected Engineering

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Engineering references