Which of the following is a disadvantage of a globe valve?

A globe valve is designed to regulate flow in a pipeline and is widely used due to its ability to provide excellent throttling capability. However, one of its significant disadvantages is that it is prone to obstruction, particularly in systems where solid particles or debris might be present in the fluid being handled. The internal structure of a globe valve, which includes a disk that moves up and down to adjust flow, can easily trap debris. This obstruction can lead to performance issues, such as reduced flow capacity and increased pressure drops across the valve.

In contrast, the other characteristics typically associated with globe valves, such as high durability, quick-acting operations, and simple design, highlight their advantages rather than their disadvantages. Their durability comes from robust construction materials, and while they can be slow to open and close (which argues against quick action), they're effective at specific flow regulation tasks. The simple design allows for straightforward maintenance and operation. However, it's the susceptibility to obstruction that marks a clear disadvantage of globe valves, especially in systems where solid contaminants are a concern.