What is a ball valve and where is it commonly used?

A ball valve is a type of quarter-turn valve that utilizes a spherical disc, or "ball," with a hole through its center to control the flow of fluid. When the valve is opened, the hole aligns with the pipe, allowing for unrestricted flow. Conversely, when the valve is closed, the ball rotates to block the flow completely. This design allows for quick shut-off, making ball valves ideal for applications where it is crucial to stop or start the flow of water rapidly.

Ball valves are commonly used in shut-off applications across various plumbing and piping systems, such as in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their robustness and reliable sealing capability are key reasons for their prevalence in situations where a secure, tight closure is necessary—such as in water supply lines, heating systems, and various fluid control scenarios. The simplicity of their operation and efficiency for controlling flow makes them a go-to choice for plumbers.

The other options do not accurately characterize the ball valve's function or applications. For instance, while some valves are used for gas flow regulation, ball valves are primarily known for water control. Filtering devices serve a different purpose than flow regulation, and the use of ball valves is not limited to irrigation systems alone; they are versatile and found in a wide