Which type of valve is opened or closed by rotating a handle a quarter turn?

The type of valve that is opened or closed by rotating a handle a quarter turn is a butterfly valve. This design allows for quick operation, providing a significant advantage in situations where rapid shut-off is necessary, such as in fire suppression systems. When the handle is turned, a disc within the valve rotates a quarter turn to either block or allow flow through the valve, which facilitates easy and efficient control.

In contrast, other types of valves, such as gate valves and globe valves, typically require more than a quarter turn—often multiple turns—to achieve full operation. A ball valve also requires a quarter turn to open or close, but the butterfly valve is specifically known for its compact design and ability to handle larger volumes of fluids with lower pressure drops, making it particularly effective in firefighting applications. Understanding the characteristics of these valves is essential for emergency response and effective firefighting strategies, as they are integral components of fire protection systems.