What is a globe valve primarily used for?

A globe valve is primarily known for its ability to control flow due to its design, which includes a movable disk and a stationary ring seat. This structure allows for precise throttling of the fluid flow, making it ideal for regulation purposes. Therefore, directional throttling, which involves adjusting the flow rate or pressure within a system, is a key function of a globe valve.

Globe valves are commonly used in applications where flow control rather than simple on/off control is desired. They allow operators to fine-tune the flow conditions, which is crucial in processes where maintaining specific fluid characteristics is necessary.

While they can be used for on/off control, that is not their primary function. Other types of valves are typically more efficient for achieving quick and straightforward shut-off and can handle higher flow rates. Additionally, globe valves are not designed for backflow prevention or pressure relief; those functions are better served by specific valve types engineered precisely for those purposes.