Which type of valve is typically used for throttling flow in plumbing systems?

The globe valve is ideally suited for throttling flow in plumbing systems due to its design. Unlike other types of valves, the globe valve has a spherical body that offers a significant amount of resistance to flow, allowing for better control over the rate at which fluid passes through. The internal mechanism of a globe valve consists of a movable disk (the plug) that can be adjusted to various positions, enabling precise regulation of water or other fluids.

This capability makes globe valves particularly useful in applications where flow modulation is necessary, such as in heating and cooling systems, or in situations where flow needs to be controlled rather than fully stopped or allowed to pass unrestricted. In contrast, gate valves are designed for on-off control and are not suitable for throttling, whereas ball valves provide quick shut-off with minimal resistance and are not meant for flow adjustment. Check valves are designed to prevent backflow and are not intended for flow regulation. Thus, the globe valve's unique structure and function make it the preferred choice for throttling flow in plumbing systems.