ball valve

noun

, Machinery.

1. a valve controlling flow by means of a ball pierced with an opening in one direction and fixed to rotate on a spindle at right angles to the opening.
2. any valve that checks flow by the seating of a ball.

ball valve

noun

1. a one-way valve consisting of a metal ball with a cylindrical hole fitting into a concave seat over an opening

Word History and Origins

Origin of ball valve¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

At o is a delivery valve, opening outwards, which is often a ball-valve but sometimes a flap-valve.

From Project Gutenberg

The communication between the train-pipe and the cylinder is controlled by a ball-valve, one form of which is shown in fig. 2.

From Project Gutenberg

An overflow is provided, discharging into the open air to allow the water to escape should the ball valve become defective.

From Project Gutenberg

Near the bend is an outlet tube, c, provided with "ball valve" or pinch cock.

From Project Gutenberg

Should the pressure increase, the bell (B) is raised and with it the ball-valve (V).

From Project Gutenberg