In terms of flow control, how does a globe valve function?

A globe valve is designed primarily for regulating fluid flow in a piping system. It accomplishes this through its unique internal structure, which features a spherical body and a disc that can be raised or lowered to control the opening through which the fluid passes. This design allows for significant control over the flow rate, making it ideal for applications where precise adjustments are necessary.

When the valve is partially opened, the fluid is forced to go through a restricted passage, which means that the operator can finely tune the level of flow with much greater accuracy than with other types of valves. This capability is why the globe valve is often used in situations where maintaining consistent flow and pressure is crucial, such as in cooling systems or process control systems.

In contrast, valves that simply open or close, such as gate valves, do not offer the same level of regulation and are better suited for applications requiring either full open or full closed positions. Similarly, a one-way valve would only allow flow in one direction and not provide control over the flow rate or pressure.