Which type of valve is commonly used for on/off control with minimal pressure drop?

A ball valve is designed specifically for on/off control with minimal pressure drop, making it the best choice for applications requiring quick shut-off. The valve features a spherical disc (the "ball") that rotates to open or close the flow path. When the ball is turned in line with the pipe, the valve is open, allowing fluid to flow freely through the passage. Because of its design, ball valves tend to have a smooth internal surface that minimizes turbulence and reduces the pressure drop across the valve when it is fully open.

In contrast, other types of valves like gate valves, which are often used to start or stop flow but can create more resistance and pressure drop when partially open, may not provide the same efficiency. Butterfly valves and globe valves also have specific applications, but they typically experience higher pressure drops compared to ball valves when fully open. Thus, for minimal pressure drop during on/off operation, ball valves are the most effective choice.