Abstract: A gate valve for controlling the flow of a material is provided which has first and second flange assemblies oriented adjacent to one another. Each of the flange assemblies has an opening through which the material can flow. A pair of load seals are placed between the first and second flange assemblies and a pair of pressure plates are placed between the load seals. A blade is located between the pressure plates and has an opening therein which is sized similarly to the openings in the first and second flange assemblies. The blade is movable between an open position such that the openings of the first and second flange assemblies are aligned with the opening of the blade, and a closed position such that the opening of the blade is not aligned with the openings of the first and second flange assemblies so that material is prevented from flowing past the blade. The first and second flange assemblies are coupled together with a coupling mechanism operable without the use of any tools.