What is a disadvantage associated with a ball valve?

A ball valve is designed primarily for on-off control of flow, meaning that it operates in a fully open or fully closed position. When the valve is partially open, it does not provide significant control over flow rates, which makes it unsuitable for throttling purposes. This characteristic is what defines the disadvantage associated with ball valves.

In contrast, other types of valves, such as globe valves, are designed for throttling applications, allowing for finer control over flow rates when partially open. Therefore, while ball valves are excellent for their ease of use, durability, and quick actuation, these benefits come at the cost of their inability to effectively regulate flow in a controlled manner when not fully opened or closed. This limitation is crucial to consider for applications requiring precise flow management.