What is the primary use of a needle valve?

A needle valve is primarily designed for fine work adjustments. Its construction features a long, tapered needle that fits into a seat, allowing for precise control over the flow of liquids or gases. This design makes it ideal for applications where small changes in flow rate are required, such as in laboratory settings or systems needing delicate flow regulation.

In contexts where quick flow control or shut-off applications are necessary, other types of valves, such as ball valves or gate valves, are typically employed. Needle valves are not suited for high volume regulation, as their design limits flow capacity; they are best used when accuracy in flow adjustment is paramount rather than the volume of flow. Therefore, the primary function of a needle valve is to allow for these minute adjustments, making it essential in situations where precision is crucial.