Awwa C515-09

ANSI/AWWA C515-09
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C515-01)
The Authoritative Resource on Safe Water®
AWWA Standard
Reduced-Wall, Resilient-
Seated Gate Valves for
Water Supply Service
SM
Effective date: Nov. 1, 2009.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors Jan. 24, 1999.
This edition approved Jan. 25, 2009.
Approved by American National Standards Institute Sept. 11, 2009.
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Copyright © 2009 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 mini-
mum 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 endorse-
ment of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or approve any product. The use of AWWA standards is entirely
voluntary. This standard does not supersede or take precedence over or displace any applicable law, regulation, or codes of any
governmental authority. AWWA standards are intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that the product de-
scribed 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
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American National Standard does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or not, from
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Copyright © 2009 by American Water Works Association

Printed in USA
ii
Committee Personnel
The AWWA Standards Committee on Taste and Odor Control Chemicals, which reviewed and
approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval:
Roland L. Larkin, Chair
S.K. Batra, City of Detroit, Water & Sewerage Department, Detroit, Mich. (AWWA)
J. Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (AWWA)
M.H. Burns, One Bolt Inc., Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
L.R. Dunn, U.S. Pipe & Foundry Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
L.W. Fleury Jr., Mueller Group, Smithfield, R.I. (AWWA)
S. Flora, M&H Valve Company, Anniston, Ala. (AWWA)
J.J. Gemin, Earth Tech (Canada) Inc., Kitchener, Ont. (AWWA)
T.R. Ingalls, East Jordan Iron Works Inc., East Jordan, Mich. (AWWA)
R.L. Larkin, American Flow Control, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
R. Looney, American AVK Company, Minden, Nev. (AWWA)
T.J. Mettler, Waterous Company, South St. Paul, Minn. (AWWA)
K.J. Wright, East Jordan Iron Works, East Jordan, Mich. (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:
Robert L. Gardner, Co-Chair

Joseph J. Gemin, Co-Chair
Thomas M. Bowen, Vice-Chair
Roland L. Larkin, Secretary
General Interest Members
J.M. Assouline,* CH2M HILL, Englewood, Colo. (AWWA)

R.L. Claudy Jr., Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
K.G. Clegg, CH2M HILL, Corvallis, Ore. (AWWA)
D. Dieffenbach, Malcolm Pirnie Inc., Phoenix, Ariz. (AWWA)
J.J. Gemin, Earth Tech (Canada) Inc., Kitchener, Ont. (AWWA)
M.C. Johnson, Utah State University, Logan, Utah (AWWA)
G.E. Laverick, Underwriters Laboratories, Northbrook, Ill. (AWWA)
* Alternate
iii
T.J. McCandless,* Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
P.I. McGrath Jr., Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
T.R. Volz, URS Corporation, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
Producer Members
J.V. Ballun, Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corporaton, Elmhurst, Ill. (AWWA)
J. Bottenfield, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (MSS)
L.W. Fleury Jr., Mueller Group, Smithfield, R.I. (AWWA)
S. Flora,† M & H Valve Company, Anniston, Ala. (AWWA)
T.R. Ingalls,† East Jordan Iron Works Inc., East Jordan, Mich. (AWWA)
R.L. Larkin, American Flow Control, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
R. Looney, American AVK Company, Minden, Nev. (AWWA)
T.J. Mettler,† Waterous Company, South St. Paul, Minn. (AWWA)
J.H. Wilber,† American AVK, Littleton, Colo. (AWWA)
K.J. Wright, East Jordan Iron Works, East Jordan, Mich. (AWWA)
User Members
A. Ali, Metro Vancouver, Vancouver, B.C. (AWWA)

T.M. Bowen, Manchester Water Works, Manchester, N.H. (AWWA)
R.L. Gardner, Standards Council Liaison, Wannacomet Water Company, Nantucket, Mass. (AWWA)
K.W. Gruber, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Oakland, Calif. (AWWA)
K.S. Jeng-Bulloch, City of Houston, Houston, Texas (AWWA)
J.S. Olson, Denver Water, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
* Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate
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 5 Verification
I Introduction................................... vii 5.1 Testing........................................... 19
I.A Background.................................... vii 5.2 Plant Inspection and Rejection....... 20
I.B History........................................... vii 6 Delivery
I.C Acceptance..................................... vii 6.1 Marking......................................... 21
II Special Issues................................... ix 6.2 Preparation for Shipment............... 21
III Use of This Standard....................... ix 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance................. 21
III.A Purchaser Options and Alternatives... ix
Appendix
III.B Modification to Standard................. x
A Installation, Operation, and
IV Major Revisions............................... x
Maintenance of Reduced-Wall,
V Comments....................................... x
Resilient-Seated Gate Valves
Standard A.1 General.......................................... 23
1 General A.2 Unloading...................................... 23
1.1 Scope............................................... 1 A.3 Receiving Inspection...................... 23
1.2 Purpose............................................ 2 A.4 Storage........................................... 24
1.3 Application...................................... 2 A.5 Installation..................................... 24
2 References....................................... 2 A.6 Maintenance.................................. 27

A.7 Repairs........................................... 28
3 Definitions..................................... 5
4 Requirements Tables
4.1 Data to Be Supplied by the 1 Design Torque . ............................... 9
Manufacturer................................ 6 2 Minimum Thickness of Body and
4.2 Materials.......................................... 6 Bonnet........................................ 11
4.3 General Design................................ 9 3 Excess Flange Thickness................. 11
4.4 Detailed Design............................. 10 4 Minimum Thickness for Ductile-Iron
4.5 Fabrication..................................... 18 Connecting End Flanges............. 11
v
SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE
5 Stem, Gate, Thrust Collar, and Stem 8 Diameter of Handwheels................ 17

Nut Copper Alloys...................... 13 9 Gear Ratios.................................... 19
6 Stainless-Steel Valve Stem Alloys..... 14 10 Proof of Design Torque.................. 20
7 Minimum Diameter of Stem and
Minimum Number of Turns to
Open........................................... 15
vi
Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not a part of ANSI*/AWWA C515.
I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. This standard describes 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 of 6.5 to 8.5 and a temperature range from 33° to
125°F (0.6° to 52°C).
I.B. History. The first edition of ANSI/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 the ANSI/AWWA C500, Standard for Metal-Seated Gate Valves, which was
first issued in 1952 as ANSI/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.
This edition of ANSI/AWWA C515 was approved by the AWWA Board of Directors
on Jan. 25, 2009.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the United States 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 direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other members
of the original consortium included the American Water Works Association Research
* American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY
10036.
vii
Foundation (AwwaRF) and the Conference of State Health and Environmental
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 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†, NSF/ANSI 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects, and NSF/ANSI 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 NSF/ANSI 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.
Annex A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to NSF/ANSI 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 Annex A
procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifier.
ANSI/AWWA C515 does not address additives requirements. 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 parties offering to certify products
for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
* Persons outside the United States should contact the appropriate authority having jurisdiction.
† NSF International, 789 N. Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.
‡ Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 500 Fifth Street NW,
Washington, DC 20001.
viii
3. Determine current information on product certification.
II. Special Issues. This standard has no applicable information for this
section.
III. Use of This Standard. It is the responsibility of the user of an AWWA
standard to determine that the products described in that standard are suitable for use
in the particular application being considered.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following items should be
provided by the purchaser:
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA C515, Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated
Gate Valves for Water Supply Service, of latest revision.
2. Whether compliance with NSF/ANSI 61, Drinking Water System
Components—Health Effects, is required.
3. Whether or not the purchaser requires cast ferrous valve components to be
made of ductile iron.
4. Quantity required.
5. Special packaging for shipment as may be required for protection of
coatings.
6. Size and type of valve, NRS or OS&Y (Sec. 1.1).
7. Whether or not the valve will be used in a corrosive environment (Sec. 1.1.3)
determined by methods described in AWWA M27.
8. Catalog data, net weight, and assembly drawings to be provided by the man-
ufacturer (Sec. 4.1), if required.
9. Details of other federal, state or provincial, and local requirements
(Sec. 4.2).
10. Whether or not the valve will be subjected to water that reacts chemically
with materials used in these valves. Consultation with the manufacturer is advised to
determine the suitability in cases of doubt (Sec. 4.2.3.3.3).
11. 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
½ in. (13 mm) less [MSS* SP-113]). The purchaser should specify the size of the shell
cutter the valve must accept.
12. Type of valve ends—flanged (Sec. 4.4.1.4.1), tapping valve flange
* Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, 127 Park Street NE,
Vienna, VA 22180.
ix
(Sec. 4.4.1.4.4), mechanical joint (Sec. 4.4.1.4.2), or push‑on joint (Sec. 4.4.1.4.3).
13. 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 the type of rustproofing for bolts and
nuts (Sec. 4.4.4).
14. 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).
15. Detailed description of wrench nut, if not in accordance with Sec. 4.4.7.
16. Whether or not records of tests specified in Section 5 are to be provided.
17. Special markings (Sec. 6.1), if required.
18. Affidavit of compliance (Sec. 6.3), if required.
III.B. Modification to Standard. Any modification to the provisions, definitions,
or terminology in the standard must be provided by the purchaser.
IV. Major Revisions. Major revisions made to the standard in this edition
include the following:
1. Revised to cover 42-in. NPS and 48-in. NPS sizes.
2. Revised to include integral and nonintegral thrust collar stem designs.
3. Revised to include reduced flange thickness for flanged-end valves.
4. Revised to include socket head and metric fasteners.
5. Added additional copper alloys to Table 5.
6. Revised to include the use of stainless-steel components (Sec. 4.2.3.5).
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Volunteer and Technical Support Group at 303.794.7711, FAX
at 303.795.7603, write to the group at 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, CO 80235-
3098, or e-mail the group at standards@awwa.org.
* ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
x
ANSI/AWWA C515-09
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C515-01)
AWWA Standard
Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate

Valves for Water Supply Service
Section 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope

This standard describes reduced-wall, resilient‑seated gate valves with non-
rising 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/sec (4.9 m/sec) when the valve is in the fully open position.
1.1.1 Sizes. This standard describes nonrising stem resilient seated gate
valves 3-in. (75-mm) NPS* through 48-in. (1,200-mm) NPS and outside screw and
yoke (OS&Y) rising stem valves, 3-in. (75-mm) NPS through 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 pres-
sure shall be 200 psig (1,380 kPa) for all sizes.
1.1.3 Conditions and materials not covered. This standard is not
intended to describe special conditions of gate valve installation or operation,
* Nominal pipe size.
1
2 AWWA C515-09
such as built‑in power drive, installation in unusually corrosive soil, conveyance

of unusually corrosive water, excessive water hammer, frequent operation (as in
filter service), or operation in a throttled position. These 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 described in this standard.
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 receiv-
ing reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves for water supply service. The stipula-
tions 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*/AWWA C110/A21.10—Ductile-Iron and Gray-Iron Fittings for
Water.
ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11—Rubber-Gasket Joints for Ductile-Iron Pres-
sure Pipe and Fittings.
ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53—Ductile-Iron Compact Fittings, 3 In. Through
64 In. (76 mm Through 1,600 mm), for Water Service.
ANSI/AWWA C550—Protective Interior Coatings for Valves and Hydrants.
ANSI/AWWA C600—Installation of Ductile-Iron Water Mains and Their
Appurtenances.
ANSI/SAE† AS-568A—Aerospace Size Standard for O-Rings.
* American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.
† SAE International, 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096.

Reduced-Wall, resilient-Seated gate valves for water supply Service 3
ASME* B16.1—Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, Class 25, 125,

and 250.
ASME B16.10—Face‑To‑Face and End‑To‑End Dimensions of Valves.
ASME B18.2.1—Square and Hex Bolts and Screws Inch Series Including
Hex Cap Screws and Lag Screws.
ASTM† A27—Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, for Gen-
eral Applications.
ASTM A126—Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings for Valves,
Flanges, and Pipe Fittings.
ASTM A153/A153M—Standard Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot‑Dip)
on Iron and Steel Hardware.
ASTM A276—Standard Specification for Stainless and Heat Resisting Steel
Bars and Shapes.
ASTM A307—Standard Specification for Carbon Steel Bolts and Studs,
60,000 PSI Tensile Strength.
ASTM A380—Standard Practice for Cleaning, Descaling, and Passivation
of Stainless Steel Parts, Equipment, and Systems.
ASTM A395/A395M—Standard Specification for Ferritic Ductile Iron
Pressure‑Retaining Castings for Use at Elevated Temperatures.
ASTM A473—Standard Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting Steel
Forgings.
ASTM A536—Standard Specification for Ductile Iron Castings.
ASTM A582—Standard Specification for Free Machining Stainless Steel
Bars.
ASTM A743—Standard Specification for Castings, Iron-Chromium, Iron-
Chromium-Nickel, Corrosion Resistant, for General Application.
ASTM B16/B16M—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.
* ASME International, Three Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.

† ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.

4 AWWA C515-09
ASTM B124/B124M—Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy

Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes.
ASTM B138—Standard Specification for Manganese Bronze Rod, Bar, and
Shapes.
ASTM B148—Standard Specification for Aluminum-Bronze Sand Castings.
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 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
Automotive Applications.
ASTM D5363—Standard Specification for Anaerobic Single-Component
Adhesives (AN).
AWWA Manual M27—External Corrosion: Introduction to Chemistry and
Control.
Fed. Spec.* HH‑P‑106d—Packing; Flax or Hemp.
* Federal Specifications are available from Naval Publications and Form Center, 5801 Tabor Ave., Philadelphia,
PA 19120.

MSS* SP‑9—Standard Practice for Spot Facing for Bronze, Iron, and Steel
Flanges.
MSS SP-60—Standard Practice for Connecting Flange Joint Between Tap-
ping Sleeves and Tapping Valves.
MSS SP-113—Standard Practice for Connecting Joint Between Tapping
Machines and Tapping Valves.
Section 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:

1. Antiseize compound: An anaerobic adhesive suitable for locking,
sealing, and retaining threaded or cylindrical assemblies per ASTM D5363, or
a compound that enables nondestructive assembly and disassembly of threaded
components.
2. 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 the
blemish cause the component to fail these requirements, the blemish may not be
considered a cosmetic defect.
3. Flanged joint: The flanged and bolted joint as described in
ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 or ASME B16.1, Class 125, or Sec. 4.4.1.4.1 of this
standard.
4. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or pro-
duces materials or products.
5. 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.
6. NPS: Nominal pipe size.
7. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases
any materials or work to be performed.
8. Push-on joint: The single rubber-gasket joint as described in ANSI/
AWWA C111/A21.11.
9. Structural defect: Flaws that cause the component to fail the
* Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, 127 Park Street NE, Vienna, VA
22180.

6 AWWA C515-09
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 the minimum wall thickness requirement, or failure to meet production
tests.
10. Supplier: The party that supplies materials or services. A supplier
may or may not be the manufacturer.
11. Tapping valve: A special gate valve designed with end connec-
tions 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 provide the
following information when supplying reduced-wall, resilient-seated gate valves:
4.1.1 Catalog data. Catalog data, including illustrations and a parts list
that identifies the materials used for various parts. The information shall be in suf-
ficient detail to serve as a guide in the assembly and disassembly of the valve and
for ordering repair parts.
4.1.2 Weight information Net assembled weight for each size of valve
exclusive of joint accessories.
4.1.3 Assembly drawings. One set of drawings showing the principal
dimensions, construction details, and materials used for valve parts. Work shall
be done and valves shall be provided in accordance with these drawings after the
drawings have been reviewed and accepted by the purchaser.
Sec. 4.2 Materials
Materials shall comply with the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act
and other federal regulations for potable water, wastewater systems, and reclaimed
water as applicable.
4.2.1 General. Materials used in valves produced according to this stan-
dard shall conform to the requirements stipulated in the following sections.
4.2.2 Dissimilar metals. In the presence of an electrolyte, direct contact
between metals of dissimilar corrosion resistance may result in galvanic corrosion
of the more active, less corrosion-resistant material. When dissimilar metals must be
used for internal parts, the rate of corrosion shall be reduced as much as practicable
through the selection of materials that exhibit similar resistance to corrosion, by

placing a dielectric material between metals or applying a dielectric coating. When

contact between dissimilar metals cannot be avoided, the assembly shall be designed
so that the resulting corrosion will be minimized and will not adversely affect water
quality or result in malfunctioning or premature failure of the assembly.
4.2.3 Physical and chemical properties. The requirements of AWWA,
ANSI, ASTM, or other standards referenced 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. Records of tests performed shall, if required
by the purchase documents, be made available to the purchaser.
4.2.3.1 Gray iron. Gray iron shall conform to or exceed the requirements
of ASTM A126, Class B.
4.2.3.2 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.
4.2.3.3 Copper alloys. Copper alloys used in valves shall comply with
the following:
4.2.3.3.1 Copper alloy valve components shall be made to ASTM-
recognized alloy specifications in the Metals and Alloys in the Unified Numbering
System (UNS)* designations. Copper alloys are not limited to those specified in
this standard. Copper alloys, however, must meet the performance requirements
of this standard, including, but not limited to, minimum yield strength, chemical
requirements, and corrosion resistance.
4.2.3.3.2 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.
4.2.3.3.3 Waters in some areas have been shown to promote corrosion in
the form of dezincification or dealuminization of copper alloys. The manufacturer
should be notified if this condition exists. Copper alloys that contain more than
16 percent zinc shall not be used in these waters. If aluminum bronze is used, the
alloys shall be inhibited against dealuminization.
4.2.3.3.4 Copper alloys that contain more than 16 percent zinc shall not
contain less than 57 percent copper.
* Joint publication of ASTM and SAE (ASTM DS56J/SAE HS-1086, 2008).

8 AWWA C515-09
4.2.3.3.5 Copper alloys that contain 16 percent or less zinc shall not con-
tain less than 79 percent copper.
4.2.3.3.6 Valve components manufactured from some grades of manga-
nese, bronze, or some other materials are subject to stress corrosion. The manufac-
turer shall design the valve and select materials to minimize stress corrosion.
4.2.3.3.7 Copper alloys that contact drinking water shall comply with the
Safe Drinking Water Act.
4.2.3.4 Carbon steel. Carbon steel castings, when used, shall conform to
the requirements of ASTM A27 Grade U-60-30 or equal.
4.2.3.5 Stainless steel. Stainless steel used in valves shall comply with the
following:
4.2.3.5.1 The chemical composition of stainless-steel valve components
shall contain not less than 15 percent chromium or more than 0.25 percent carbon
and shall be processed to reduce the formation of chromium carbides.
4.2.3.5.2 Stainless-steel valve components, when used, shall be made to
ASTM recognized alloy specifications with metal and alloys in the Unified Num-
bering System (UNS). Stainless-steel alloys are not limited to those specified here-
in. Stainless-steel alloys, however, must meet the performance requirements of this
standard including, but not limited to, the minimum yield strength and chemical
requirements.
4.2.3.5.3 After final forming and machining, exogenous iron shall be
removed from finished stainless-steel components that come in contact with water,
or those components shall be passivated in accordance with ASTM A380. Other
stainless-steel components shall be cleaned and descaled per the manufacturer’s
requirements.
4.2.3.6 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.
4.2.3.7 O-rings. O-rings shall meet the requirements of ASTM D2000
and have physical properties suitable for the application.
4.2.3.8 Coatings. Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, valve
coatings, as required in Sec. 4.5.2, shall be water-based enamel coating, black
asphalt coatings, ANSI/AWWA C550 coatings, or equal except as required by
Sec. 4.4.1.3.
4.2.3.9 Elastomers. Elastomers shall comply with the following:
a. Rubber seats shall be resistant to microbiological attack, copper poison-

ing, 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 degrada-
tion 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 hr 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 hr 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 hr. 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. Valve parts 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 work-
ing water pressure. In addition to these pressure requirements, the valve assembly
and mechanism shall withstand a stem torque shown in Table 1.
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
Table 1 Design torque

Nominal Valve Size or NPS Design Torque
in. (mm) ft-lb (Nm)
3–4 (75–100) 200 (270)
6–16 (150–400) 300 (406)
Larger than 16 (400) Consult Manufacturer

10 AWWA C515-09
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.
4.4.1.2 Shell thickness. Shell thickness at no point shall be less than the
minimum metal thickness shown in Table 2.
4.4.1.3 Body seating surfaces. Resilient seats shall seal against a corrosion-
resistant surface. The surface may be either metallic or nonmetallic, applied in a
manner to withstand the action of the line fluids and the operation of the sealing
gate during long-term service. A metallic surface shall have a corrosion resistance
equivalent to or better than bronze. A nonmetallic surface shall be in compliance
with ANSI/AWWA C550.
4.4.1.4 Valve ends. Except as agreed on by the purchaser and supplier,
end connections shall conform to one of the following requirements.
4.4.1.4.1 The thickness of the end flanges may be less than specified in
ASME B16.1 or ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 but not less than shown in Table 4.
Other dimensions and drilling of end flanges shall conform to ASME B16.1
class 125 or ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 except as modified by the purchase doc-
uments. Unless spot‑facing is required by the purchase documents, 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 B16.1 by more than indicated in Table 3 or if the flange
is not sufficiently flat. If the foregoing limit is exceeded, either spot‑facing or back-
facing may be used to meet the requirements. When required, 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 B16.10.
4.4.1.4.2 Mechanical-joint bell dimensions shall conform to ANSI/AWWA
C111/A21.11. 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 inter-
fere with the joint assembly.
4.4.1.4.3 Push‑on joints shall conform to the requirements of ANSI/
AWWA C111/A21.11.

Table 2 Minimum thickness of body and bonnet

Nominal Valve Diameter Size or NPS Minimum Metal Thickness
in. (mm) in. (mm)
3 (75) 0.30 (7.6)
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)
18 (450) 0.56 (14.2)
20 (500) 0.56 (14.2)
24 (600) 0.62 (15.7)
30 (750) 1.06 (26.9)
36 (900) 1.31 (33.3)
42 (1,050) 1.42 (36.0)
48 (1,200) 1.44 (39.6)
Table 3 Excess flange thickness

Nominal Valve Size or NPS Excess Thickness (maximum)
in. (mm) in. (mm)
03–12 0(75–300) ⅛ (3.2)
14–24 (350–600) 3⁄₁₆ (4.8)
30–48 (750–1,200) ¼ (6.4)
Table 4 Minimum thickness for ductile-iron connecting end flanges

Nominal Valve Size or NPS Flange Thickness
in. (mm) in. (mm)
4 (100) ¾ (19.1)
6 (150) ¾ (19.1)
8 (200) ⅞ (22.2)
10 (250) ¹⁵⁄₁₆ (23.8)
12 (300) 1 (25.4)
14 (350) 1 (25.4)
16 (400) 1 (25.4)
18 (450) 1 (25.4)
20 (500) 1⅛ (28.6)
24 (600) 1 3⁄₁₆ (30.1)
30 (750) 1⅜ (34.9)
36 (900) 1¾ (44.5)
42 (1,050) 2 (50.8)
48 (1,200) 2⅛ (54.0)

12 AWWA C515-09
4.4.1.4.4 The end flange of a tapping valve that forms a joint with the tap-
ping sleeve shall conform to the dimensions of MSS SP-60 in sizes 3-in. (75-mm)
through 12-in. (300-mm) NPS. For larger sizes, flange dimensions shall be as
agreed to by the purchaser and supplier.
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.
4.4.1.5 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, 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 material of the gate shall be ductile iron, gray iron,
or copper alloy (see Table 5 for copper alloys).
4.4.2.1.1 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). Exposed mechanical attaching devices and
hardware used to retain the resilient seat shall be of a corrosion-resistant material.
4.4.3 Guides. 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 meet
the mechanical strength requirements of ASTM A307 and shall have either regular
square, hexagonal, or socket heads with dimensions conforming to ASME B18.2.1,
B18.2.3.1M, B18.3, or B18.3.1M. Bolts, studs, and nuts shall be (1) zinc‑coated
(ASTM A153 or B633); or (2) made corrosion-resistant by some other process
disclosed to and acceptable to the purchaser. The purchaser may specify bolts,
studs, and nuts made from a specified corrosion-resistant material, such as low‑zinc
bronze, nickel-copper alloy, or stainless steel. Stainless-steel bolts and studs shall
not be used on stainless nuts unless the threads are coated with an antiseize com-
pound or the fastening components are made of different alloys or some other
means are used to prevent galling.

Table 5 Stem, gate, thrust collar, and stem nut copper alloys
Copper Alloy*
ASTM Specification Number Alloy Designation
ASTM B16 UNS C36000
ASTM B138 UNS C67500
Stems, Gates, and Thrust Collars ASTM B283 UNS C67600
ASTM B98 UNS C66100
UNS C86200
UNS C95300
UNS C95500
UNS C86700†
UNS C87500
UNS C87600
UNS C87610
ASTM B763 UNS C86500†
UNS C86700†
UNS C99400
UNS C99500
ASTM B62 UNS C83600
Stem Nuts and Gates ASTM B124 UNS C37700
UNS C95300
UNS C95500
UNS C83450
UNS C86700†
UNS C87500
UNS C87610
UNS C86700†
UNS C95200
UNS C95500
UNS C95800
UNS C99400
UNS C99500
* Alloys actually used or specified not limited to those listed—see Sec. 4.2.3.3.1.
† Compliance with ANSI/AWWA C515 requires the manufacturer to specify minimum mechanical (yield
strength) or chemical (copper and/or zinc) requirements that exceed the minimums required for this alloy by
the ASTM specification(s) listed.

14 AWWA C515-09
Table 6 Stainless-steel valve stem alloys

Specification Number Alloy Designation*
ASTM A276 UNS S30400
ASTM A743/A743M CF8 J92600
ASTM A743/A743M CF8M J92900
* Alloys actually used or specified not limited to those listed—see Sec. 4.2.3.5.
4.4.4.1 Recessed sockets. Recessed socket in bolts shall be plugged and/

or sealed.
4.4.5 Stem, stem nut, and thrust collar.
4.4.5.1 Alloy. Copper alloy stems, stem nuts, thrust collar, and gates shall
be made from an alloy listed in Table 5. Stainless-steel stems shall be made from
an alloy listed in Table 6. When stainless-steel stems are used, the stem, stem nut,
and thrust collar materials shall be selected to prevent galling when subjected to
the torques given in Table 10.
4.4.5.1.1 Valve stems shall have a yield strength of 20,000 psi (137,800 kPa)
or greater.
4.4.5.2 Stem nuts. Stem nuts shall be made from copper alloys that have
a yield strength of 14,000 psi (96,500 kPa) or greater (see Table 5).
4.4.5.3 NRS stems. The stem must have a thrust collar that shall be inte-
gral or nonintegral with the stem.
4.4.5.4 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 prevent any possibility of the gate leaving the stem or the stem turning
during the operation of the valve.
4.4.5.5 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 throughout the lift of
opening and thrust of closing the valve.
4.4.5.6 Diameter. The stem diameters and turns to open shall be as
shown in Table 7.

Table 7 Minimum diameter of stem and minimum number of turns to open

Valve Size or
NPS NRS Valves OS&Y Valves
Minimum Minimum Diameter of Minimum

Minimum Diameter Number of Turns Stem Unthreaded Section Number of Turns
of Stem* of Stem to Open and Thread OD† of Stem to Open‡
in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)
03 0(75) 0.859 (21.82) 09 0¾ (19.1) 07
04 (100) 0.859 (21.82) 12 1 ¾ (25.4) 09
06 (150) 1.000 (25.40) 18 1⅛ (28.6) 18
08 (200) 1.000 (25.40) 24 1¼ (31.8) 25
10 (250) 1.125 (28.58) 30 1⅜ (34.9) 31
12 (300) 1.188 (30.18) 36 1⅜ (34.9) 37
14 (350) 1.250 (31.75) 42 1⁷⁄₁₆ (36.5) 42
16 (400) 1.438 (36.53) 48 1½ (38.1) 48
18 (450) 1.625 (41.28) 54
20 (500) 1.750 (44.45) 40
24 (600) 1.969 (50.01) 48
30 (750) 2.188 (55.58) 60
36 (900) 2.500 (63.50) 72
42 (1,050) 2.750 (69.85) 84
48 (1,200) 3.430 (87.12) 96
* 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.
4.4.6 Stem sealing. The sealing system shall be designed to be watertight

at the rated working pressure of the valve.
4.4.6.1 NRS valves.
4.4.6.1.1 A stem seal plate or O‑ring packing plate shall be made of duc-
tile 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.
4.4.6.1.2 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 perpendicular to the
stem axis within 0.5°.

16 AWWA C515-09
4.4.6.1.3 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 A stuffing box shall be provided to contain stem packing. Stuff-
ing-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.
4.4.6.2.2 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 pack-
ing to prevent leakage around the stem.
4.4.6.2.3 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.
4.4.6.2.4 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.
4.4.6.2.4.1 Packing glands shall be made of a copper alloy, synthetic poly-
mer, gray iron, or ductile iron.
4.4.6.2.4.2 If a gland follower is used, it shall be made of either ductile or
gray iron, or a copper alloy.
4.4.6.2.4.3 Gland bolts and nuts shall be according to Sec. 4.4.4. Gland-
bolt nuts shall be made of a copper alloy, or stainless steel. Stainless-steel nuts shall
not be used on stainless-steel packing gland bolts unless the threads are coated with
an antiseize compound or the fastening components are made of different alloys,
or some other means is used that prevents galling.
4.4.6.3 Stem-seal replacement.
4.4.6.3.1 NRS valves shall be designed so that the seal above the stem col-
lar can be replaced with the valve under pressure in the fully open position.
4.4.6.3.2 Design of OS&Y valves shall be such that the stuffing box can be
packed when the valves are 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
purchase documents, 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 1¾ in. (44.5 mm) high. The outside
diameter of handwheels shall not be less than those given in Table 8. Nuts shall
have a flanged base on which shall be cast an arrow at least 2 in. (50.8 mm) long

Table 8 Diameter of handwheels*

Size of Valve or NPS Minimum Diameter of Handwheel
in. (mm) in. (mm)
3 (75) 7 (178)
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.
showing the direction of the opening. The word “OPEN,” in ½-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 the valve, with the word “OPEN” in ½-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 read easily.
4.4.8.1 Operating mechanism. NRS valves are to be supplied with wrench
nuts or handwheels. OS&Y valves are to be supplied with handwheels.
4.4.8.2 Direction of opening. The standard direction of opening is coun-
terclockwise as viewed from the top. Valves opening in the opposite direction
(clockwise) may be specified.
4.4.8.3 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.
4.4.8.4 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.
4.4.9 Gaskets. Gaskets, O-rings, or other suitable elastomeric seals shall
be used on flanged joints intended to be watertight.
4.4.10 Gearing. If they are required by the purchase documents, gears
shall be accurately formed and smooth running, with a pinion shaft operating in a
bronze, self-lubricating, or permanently sealed antifriction bearing.
4.4.10.1 Material. Geared valves shall be equipped with steel, ductile-iron,

18 AWWA C515-09
or gray-iron gears. If cast-iron gears are provided, the pinion shall be steel. Material
for steel gears shall be ASTM A27 Grade U-60-30 or equal.
4.4.10.2 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 provided, enclosed
gear cases are required unless definitely excluded by the purchaser’s requirements.
4.4.10.3 Indicators. When required by the purchase documents, geared
valves shall be equipped with indicators to show the position of the gate in relation
to the waterway.
4.4.10.4 Gear ratio. Gear ratios shall not be less than those shown in
Table 9.
4.4.10.5 Input torque. The maximum input torque shall be as recom-
mended by the manufacturer.
Sec. 4.5 Fabrication
4.5.1 Workmanship.
4.5.1.1 Interchangeable parts. Valve parts shall conform to their required
dimensions and shall be free from defects that could prevent proper functioning
of the valve. Like parts of valves of the same model and size produced by the same
manufacturer shall be interchangeable.
4.5.1.2 Castings. Castings shall be clean and sound without defects that
will weaken their structure or impair their service. Plugging, welding, or repair-
ing 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 perfor-
mance 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. 4.2.3.8.
4.5.2.2 Exterior ferrous surfaces. A coating material as specified in
Sec. 4.2.3.8 shall be applied to exterior ferrous surfaces.

Table 9 Gear ratios
Nominal Valve Size or NPS Minimum Gear Ratio

in. (mm)
16–24 (400–600) 2:1
30–36 (750–900) 3:1
42–48 (1,050–1,200) 4:1
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
thrust collar 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 in
accordance with Table 10. For valves using stainless-steel stems, upon disassembly,
there shall be no visible evidence of galling on the stem, thrust collar, or stem nut
after completion of the torque test.
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.

20 AWWA C515-09
Table 10 Proof of design torque

Nominal Valve Size or NPS Design Torque
in. (mm) ft-lb (Nm)
3–4 (75–100) 250 (340)
6–12 (150–300) 350 (475)
14–24 (350–600) 400 (545)
30 (750) 500 (680)
36 (900) 600 (820)
42 (1,050) 700 (950)
48 (1,200) 800 (1,100)
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 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
Work performed according to this standard, except prototype testing, shall
be subject to inspection and acceptance by the purchaser, who shall have access
to 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 manufac-
turer’s name or mark, the year the valve casting was made, the size of the valve, let-
ters “C515,” and the designation of working water pressure, for example, “200W.”
Special markings in addition to these can be supplied when specified by the pur-
chaser’s requirements on agreement between purchaser and manufacturer.
Sec. 6.2 Preparation for Shipment
Valves shall be complete in detail when shipped. Valves shall be drained
before shipment. Handwheels and valve accessories may be packed separately.
Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance
The manufacturer shall, when required by the purchase documents, provide
the purchaser with an affidavit stating that the valve and materials used in its con-
struction conform to the applicable requirements of this standard and the purchase
documents and that tests specified in this standard have been performed and test
requirements have been met.

This page intentionally blank.

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 ANSI/AWWA C515.
Section A.1: GENERAL
Resilient-seated gate valves form a significant component part of many fire-

fighting or water‑distribution systems. Failure of a resilient-seated gate valve in
these 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
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 dam-
age during shipment. The initial inspection should verify compliance with speci-
fications, 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
23
24 AWWA C515-09
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 evi-
dence 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.
Section A.4: STORAGE
Valves should be stored indoors. If outside storage is required, the valves

should be protected from weather elements. During outside storage, they 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 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 visu-
ally 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
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
inadvertently 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 sur-
face of the finished area or another level as directed by the purchaser. Valve boxes
should be designed so 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 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, 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 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 excava-
tions not be backfilled until pressure tests have been completed. After installation,
it is desirable to test newly installed piping sections, including valves, at some pres-
sure 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

26 AWWA C515-09
rated working pressure of the valve. In addition, wear or foreign material may dam-
age valve seating surfaces and may cause leakage (See ANSI/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 ser-
vice other than those recommended by the manufacturer. The following list of
precautions is not inclusive but will help avoid some applications hazards.
A.5.7.1 Resilient-seated gate valves should not be installed in lines where ser-
vice 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, 3-in. (75-mm) NPS and 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). For
valves larger than 16 in. (400 mm), consult the manufacturer.

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
joints, connections, and areas of packing or seals. If leakage is observed, 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 responsible for repairs. In addition, fire departments

28 AWWA C515-09
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.

This page intentionally blank.

AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and
supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in
the world. AWWA advances public health, safety, and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of
the entire water community. Through our collective strength, we become better stewards of water for the
greatest good of the people and the environment.
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ANSI/AWWA C515-09

(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C515-01)

The Authoritative Resource on Safe Water®

Effective date: Nov. 1, 2009.

6666 West Quincy Avenue Advocacy

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

American National Standard

Copyright © 2009 by American Water Works Association

Roland L. Larkin, Chair

Robert L. Gardner, Co-Chair

General Interest Members

J.M. Assouline,* CH2M HILL, Englewood, Colo. (AWWA)

A. Ali, Metro Vancouver, Vancouver, B.C. (AWWA)

2 References....................................... 2 A.6 Maintenance.................................. 27

4.1 Data to Be Supplied by the 1 Design Torque . ............................... 9

Manufacturer................................ 6 2 Minimum Thickness of Body and

4.2 Materials.......................................... 6 Bonnet........................................ 11

4.3 General Design................................ 9 3 Excess Flange Thickness................. 11

4.4 Detailed Design............................. 10 4 Minimum Thickness for Ductile-Iron

4.5 Fabrication..................................... 18 Connecting End Flanges............. 11

5 Stem, Gate, Thrust Collar, and Stem 8 Diameter of Handwheels................ 17

* ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.

Reduced-Wall, Resilient-Seated Gate

Sec. 1.1 Scope

* Nominal pipe size.

such as built‑in power drive, installation in unusually corrosive soil, conveyance

This standard references the following documents. In their latest editions,

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

ASME* B16.1—Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, Class 25, 125,

* ASME International, Three Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

ASTM B124/B124M—Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

The following definitions shall apply in this standard:

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Sec. 4.1 Data to Be Supplied by the Manufacturer

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

placing a dielectric material between metals or applying a dielectric coating. When

* Joint publication of ASTM and SAE (ASTM DS56J/SAE HS-1086, 2008).

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

ing, and ozone attack.

Table 1 Design torque

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Table 2 Minimum thickness of body and bonnet

Table 3 Excess flange thickness

Table 4 Minimum thickness for ductile-iron connecting end flanges

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Table 6 Stainless-steel valve stem alloys

4.4.4.1 Recessed sockets. Recessed socket in bolts shall be plugged and/

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Table 7 Minimum diameter of stem and minimum number of turns to open

Minimum Minimum Diameter of Minimum

4.4.6 Stem sealing. The sealing system shall be designed to be watertight

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

4.4.6.1.3 When an O‑ring or other pressure‑actuated stem seal is used, the

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Table 8 Diameter of handwheels*

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2009 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.