Which valve type is commonly used for linear flow regulation?

• A. Butterfly valve.
• B. Globe valve.
• C. Swing check valve.
• D. Ball valve.

Answer: (B)

Linear flow regulation relies on a valve that can produce a predictable, proportional change in flow as the disc moves. The globe valve fits this need because its plug or disk moves toward or away from a stationary seat, creating a throttled, streamlined path that changes steadily with stem position. This yields a relatively linear relationship between how far the valve is opened and the flow rate, making it well suited for precise control in process systems. In contrast, a butterfly or ball valve changes flow more abruptly and nonlinearly as the disk or ball turns, which is less ideal for fine throttling. A swing check valve, meanwhile, is designed to prevent backflow, not to regulate flow. So the globe valve is the best choice for linear flow regulation.