Which of the following is not a common valve type used in steam systems?

Prepare for the Engineman EN A School Test 1. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to boost confidence and readiness for the test.

In steam systems, valve selection relies on what the valve needs to do and how it must perform under high temperature and pressure. Globe valves are preferred when you need good throttling control and a tight seal, because their flow path and seat design allow precise regulation. Gate valves are used for isolation with minimal flow resistance when fully open, making them reliable for shutting off steam flow. Check valves prevent backflow, which protects the system from reverse flow and condensate issues.

Ball valves, while great for quick shutoff in many applications, aren’t commonly used in steam service. Their seats are often made of materials that don’t hold up as well under high-temperature steam, and they’re not ideal for throttling or handling the thermal cycling and seal wear that steam systems experience. For these reasons, globe, gate, and check valves are the standard choices, while ball valves are not typically favored in steam lines.