Within the Pumps & Valves category, Ball Valves are a type of valve that uses a spherical disc to control the flow of fluid. The ball has a hole, or port, through its center, and when the port is aligned with both ends of the valve, fluid can flow through. Rotating the ball 90 degrees closes the valve, blocking fluid flow. Ball valves are prized for their durability and excellent sealing capabilities, making them suitable for applications where tight shutoff is necessary. They are commonly used in residential plumbing, industrial processes, and gas handling systems due to their straightforward operation, reliability, and ability to handle high pressures and temperatures. The simplicity of their design allows for quick and easy operation, often with just a quarter turn of the handle or lever to control the flow, providing an efficient and cost-effective solution for flow control.