Which valve type is commonly used to control the firing rate in a high-pressure gas system?

The correct choice for controlling the firing rate in a high-pressure gas system is the butterfly valve. Butterfly valves are highly effective for flow regulation because they allow for quick opening and closing with a simple quarter-turn operation. This feature makes them suitable for adjusting the flow of gases, including in high-pressure systems where precise control is necessary.

Butterfly valves have a disc that pivots around a shaft, and by rotating the disc, the valve can vary the size of the opening, thereby adjusting the flow rate smoothly and efficiently. This capability is crucial in applications where the firing rate must be finely tuned for optimal combustion and performance.

In contrast, other valve types, such as gate and ball valves, are typically used for on/off applications rather than for flow modulation, making them less suitable for controlling firing rates. Globe valves, while they can regulate flow, tend to have higher pressure drops due to their design which may not be ideal for high-pressure gas systems where efficiency is paramount.