Abstract: A gate valve is provided having a valve body with a fluid passage therethrough and a riser passage at right angles to the fluid passage. A valve gate is included for opening and closing the fluid passage. A valve stem is operatively connected with the valve gate for transmitting movement force to the valve gate. The valve stem includes a first wrench for receiving a drive member and an identically shaped second wrench head. The wrench heads are separated by a first zone of weakness formed to fail completely when a first predetermined torque is applied to the stem. Upon complete failure of the first zone of weakness the second wrench head would be exposed for engagement by a drive member to turn the valve stem. A second zone of weakness is formed on the valve stem below the first zone of weakness and is formed to fail when a second predetermined torque greater than the first predetermined torque is applied to the stem.

Abstract: A combination valve and flanged connector for connecting a metallic or non-metallic pipe directly to the valve body is disclosed. The flanged valve connector includes a radial flange secured on a longitudinal end of the valve body. Secured to the radial flange is a tubular member for receiving the end section of a pipe to be connected with the valve body. The tubular member has a generally frusto conical end sized to snugly receive a sealing gasket in sealed relationship between the tubular member and the valve body. The tubular member also has a length sufficient to be engaged by a retainer for holding the sealed gasket in place and to also support a follower ring engaging the gasket retainer, the follower ring being provided with a deep, longitudinally extending strengthening flange.