Abstract: An isolating valve or damper for the gas-tight closure of a flue or duct, comprising a frame or housing fitted in the flue or duct and a closure member operable between an open position and a closed position in which the member closes the flue or duct, wherein the closure member is a lightweight low inertia body, preferably a cone or a sphere, and wherein the closure member may be moved between its open and closed positions by means of a rapid-acting operator.