What is the main function of valves in piping systems?

The primary function of valves in piping systems is to control the flow of fluids. Valves serve as crucial components that allow for the regulation and management of fluid movement within a pipeline. This includes starting or stopping flow, as well as adjusting the flow rate as needed. Different types of valves, such as gate, globe, and ball valves, are designed for specific applications and provide varying degrees of control over pressure, flow direction, and flow rate.

While preventing rusting, supporting pipes, and filtering impurities are important aspects of overall piping system maintenance and performance, they are not direct functions of valves. Instead, other components and methods are employed to address those concerns, such as protective coatings, hangers and supports for structural integrity, and separate filtration systems for maintaining fluid purity. Thus, the main role of valves remains fundamentally about controlling and directing the flow of fluids within the piping system.