What type of valve is commonly used to control water flow in pipelines?

The gate valve is commonly used to control water flow in pipelines because it provides a simple and effective way to start or stop flow in a system. When the gate valve is fully opened, it allows for minimal resistance and unrestricted flow, which is ideal for applications where a full flow is needed without turbulence or pressure drop. This characteristic makes gate valves particularly suitable for isolation purposes in water distribution systems.

Additionally, gate valves have a relatively low pressure drop across the valve when fully open, meaning they do not impede the flow, which is beneficial for pipelines transporting water. They are also designed to provide a reliable seal when closed, ensuring that leakage is minimized. This combination of features makes the gate valve a practical choice for controlling water flow in various applications, particularly in industrial and municipal water supply systems.