Structural characteristics
a. Fast operation - opening or closing is accomplished by about a 90° rotation. b. Simple construction with few components and low weight. c. Convenient to manufacture as three-way or four-way valve configurations.
Valves can be classified in various ways, such as by construction, sealing-surface material, rated pressure, operating temperature, and connection type. By construction they are commonly grouped into cylindrical (straight) plug valves and conical (tapered) plug valves. By sealing-surface material they are categorized as non-metallic seal, metallic seal, or oil-film seal types. Classifications by pressure rating, temperature range, and connection method follow the same principles.
