Sliding-gate valves make less noise than other types of valves, partly because the laminar flow minimizes turbulence, which is the main cause of valve noise in globe-style valves and rotary valves. In addition, the many orifices in the plate and disc divide the flow into smaller streams, resulting in less noise.
The pressure in the valve will keep the disc in constant contact with the plate. This prevents the sudden, damaging (and noisy) contact that occurs in some valves.
The constant contact between the disc and the plate creates a self-lapping effect, which results in less friction and causes the valve to actually close more tightly over time than when, as new, it leaves the factory.
The movement of the disc and the plate towards each other is also a self-cleaning movement that effectively removes excess residues of material.
As production lines get bigger and bigger, there is also a need for bigger and heavier valves. Due to the shorter stroke length, sliding gate valves are typically smaller and lighter than alternative valves, thus minimising factory footprint.