Which valve type is specifically designed to isolate a section of a system?

Which valve type is specifically designed to isolate a section of a system?

• A. Relief valve
• B. Check valve
• C. Gate valve
• D. Ball valve

Answer: (C)

The gate valve is specifically designed to isolate a section of a system because its primary function is to provide a tight seal for on/off control of fluid flow. When fully opened, a gate valve provides minimal resistance to flow, allowing for efficient flow through the pipeline. Conversely, when the valve is closed, it completely isolates the flow, preventing any fluid from passing through, which is essential in maintenance or emergency situations. In contrast, relief valves are designed to open automatically to relieve excess pressure and do not serve the purpose of isolation. Check valves allow flow in one direction only but do not provide the capability for complete shut-off; their purpose is to prevent backflow rather than isolate sections of a system. Ball valves can also be used to isolate flow and are effective for quick shut-off, but they operate differently than gate valves and might not provide as tight a seal under certain conditions. Thus, while other valve types may serve numerous purposes, the gate valve is distinctly the best choice for isolating a section of a system effectively.

The gate valve is specifically designed to isolate a section of a system because its primary function is to provide a tight seal for on/off control of fluid flow. When fully opened, a gate valve provides minimal resistance to flow, allowing for efficient flow through the pipeline. Conversely, when the valve is closed, it completely isolates the flow, preventing any fluid from passing through, which is essential in maintenance or emergency situations.

In contrast, relief valves are designed to open automatically to relieve excess pressure and do not serve the purpose of isolation. Check valves allow flow in one direction only but do not provide the capability for complete shut-off; their purpose is to prevent backflow rather than isolate sections of a system. Ball valves can also be used to isolate flow and are effective for quick shut-off, but they operate differently than gate valves and might not provide as tight a seal under certain conditions.

Thus, while other valve types may serve numerous purposes, the gate valve is distinctly the best choice for isolating a section of a system effectively.