What type of valve is commonly used to regulate the flow of fluids in a system?

A control valve is specifically designed to regulate the flow of fluids within a system. It operates by varying the size of the flow passage as directed by an external control signal, which allows for precise management of flow rates, pressure, and temperature. This capability is essential in various applications, such as heating, cooling, and water treatment systems, where maintaining specific flow conditions is crucial for optimal performance.

In contrast, a check valve is intended to prevent backflow in a system rather than regulate flow. Its primary function is to allow fluid to flow in one direction only, which is important for ensuring that a system operates correctly, but it does not control flow quantities.

A relief valve serves a different purpose, primarily designed to protect systems from overpressure conditions by releasing excess pressure. While it can influence flow, it does so in response to safety concerns rather than for flow regulation under normal operating conditions.

A compression valve is not a standard term in the context of fluid flow regulation. Its use may be more specialized or refer to a type of valve used in specific applications, but it does not serve the general purpose of controlling fluid flow like a control valve does.

Thus, the control valve is the most appropriate choice for regulating flow due to its functionality and application in