Butterfly Valve
Definition:
A butterfly valve is a type of valve used to control the flow of liquids or gases. It consists of a circular disc (like a butterfly) that can turn to open or close the valve. When the disc is turned parallel to the flow, the valve is open, allowing the liquid or gas to pass through. When it is turned perpendicular (at a right angle), the valve is closed, stopping the flow.
Usage Instructions:
You will typically find butterfly valves used in plumbing, heating systems, and engines, especially in carburetors of vehicles. They help regulate how much fluid or gas can flow through pipes or systems.
Example Sentence:
"The mechanic replaced the faulty butterfly valve in the car's carburetor to improve engine performance."
Advanced Usage:
In industrial applications, butterfly valves are preferred because they are lightweight, easy to operate, and can quickly open or close with a quarter turn. They are widely used in water treatment, chemical processing, and HVAC systems.
Word Variants:
- Butterfly (noun): Refers to the insect with large, colorful wings. - Valve (noun): A device that controls the flow of fluid.
Different Meanings:
While "butterfly valve" refers specifically to the valve in mechanical contexts, the word "butterfly" alone can refer to the insect, or it can describe a style of swimming (butterfly stroke).
Synonyms:
- Quarter-turn valve (in specific contexts) - Throttle valve (when used as a throttle in engines)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "butterfly valve." However, the term "butterfly effect" is an idiom in English that means small actions can lead to significant consequences, which might be a fun connection but is not directly related to the valve.