Which type of water valve is typically used to completely stop the flow?

The gate valve is specifically designed for situations where the flow of water needs to be completely stopped or allowed to pass without any restriction. This type of valve operates by raising or lowering a gate within the valve body, which either opens or closes the flow path. When fully opened, a gate valve provides a straight flow path with minimal resistance, whereas, when fully closed, it completely obstructs the flow.

In contrast, while a globe valve can also control flow, it is not typically used for complete shutoff because its design can lead to higher pressure drops when fully closed. Ball valves are effective for quick shutoff and can provide a complete stop, but they are best suited for applications where frequent on-off operation is needed rather than for long-term isolation. Check valves are designed to prevent backflow in a system and do not serve the purpose of fully stopping flow. Therefore, the gate valve is the most appropriate choice for applications requiring a complete stop in flow.