With regard to valves in a refrigeration system, which valve has the least resistance to flow?

The ball valve is recognized for having the least resistance to flow in a refrigeration system. This is mainly due to its design, which features a spherical disc, or ball, that rotates to allow or restrict the flow of refrigerant. When fully open, a ball valve provides a smooth, straight-through passage, minimizing turbulence and therefore resistance.

In many applications, ball valves are favored because they can achieve a very low-pressure drop compared to other types of valves. This characteristic is particularly important in refrigeration systems, where maintaining optimal flow rates is crucial for efficiency and performance. In contrast, while butterfly valves can also allow for substantial flow, they typically exhibit more flow resistance due to their design, which includes a disc that partially obstructs the flow path even when open.

Understanding the flow characteristics of these valves is essential for selecting the right type for any given application, ensuring efficient operation of refrigeration systems.