Which type of valve is commonly used to control flow in water systems?

The gate valve is commonly used to control flow in water systems due to its design, which allows for minimal resistance to flow when fully open. This kind of valve operates by lifting a gate out of the path of the fluid, enabling straightforward on/off control. When the gate valve is completely opened, it provides a straight-through flow with minimal pressure drops, making it effective for applications requiring full flow capability, such as in water distribution systems.

In addition to being functional for flow control, gate valves are typically used in scenarios where a tight seal is necessary when closed, preventing any leakage. They are preferable for isolating sections of pipelines rather than for throttling purposes, as they are not designed for flow regulation.

The other valves mentioned serve different purposes; for example, a check valve is used to prevent backflow, a pressure relief valve protects systems from overpressure, and a butterfly valve is often used for regulating flow but can introduce more resistance than a gate valve when fully open.