While the purpose of a valve is to regulate the flow of a fluid, there are different types of valves for specific applications. Two common types are ball valves and globe valves.

forged Gate, Globe, Check ValvesFunction
Ball valves have a chamber with a spherical ball that has a hole bored into it.The ball is connected to a handle, which is turned parallel to the line of flow to increase the flow of fluid or perpendicular to the line to stop the flow. Globe valves have a plate with a hole in it, and a disk or plug completely or partially fits into the hole, slowing or stopping flow, according to Peco Valve.

Ball Valve Benefits
Ball valves allow the user to see exactly what position the valve is in. If the handle is perpendicular to the line, the hole is facing perpendicular to the line, and therefore is fully closed.

Globe Valve Benefits
Globe valves offer greater precision than other valves when it comes to regulating flow, according to the GlobalSpec website. Globe ValvesThere is also less risk of water hammer, or the surge of pressure, when a valve is quickly closed.

Ball Valve Applications
Ball valves are used in high-pressure and shutoff applications, including chemical plants, according to King Valve. Because they do not wear easily, ball valves are often used where a valve is needed in the off position for extended periods.

Globe Valve Applications
Globe valves are used in applications where flow needs to be finely tuned. GLOBE VALVEThe seat, or the area that the stopper makes contact with, can deteriorate over time, causing leaks, so these are a poor choice for shutoff applications. Globe valves are designed to restrict flow, so they also are not ideal for operations requiring full, unobstructed flow

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