screw valve

A plumber installs a screw valve on a copper pipe.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of valve operated by a screw mechanism: "screw valve" refers to a valve that is opened or closed by turning a threaded screw, which moves a gate or plug to control the flow of liquid or gas. This mechanism allows for precise adjustment of flow rate.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The plumber installed a screw valve on the water pipe to regulate the flow. (A valve with a threaded screw mechanism for control.)
  • To shut off the gas supply, turn the screw valve clockwise until it stops. (The valve is operated by rotating a screw.)

Advanced Usage

• "screw valve adjustment": the act of modifying the position of the screw to change the valve's opening.

  • A small screw valve adjustment can significantly reduce water pressure. (Fine-tuning the screw mechanism alters flow.)

• "screw valve assembly": the complete unit including the screw, body, and sealing components.

  • The screw valve assembly must be replaced if the threads are damaged. (The entire valve mechanism.)

Variants and Related Words

• Screw (n): a threaded fastener used in valves and other mechanisms.

  • The screw on the valve was too tight to turn. (The threaded part of the valve.)

• Valve (n): a device that controls the flow of a fluid or gas.

  • A ball valve is different from a screw valve in operation. (A general term for flow control devices.)

Synonyms

• Threaded valve: a valve that uses threads for operation.
• Screw-operated valve: a valve controlled by a screw mechanism.

Phrasal Verbs

• Screw down (verb phrase): to tighten or secure by turning a screw.

  • Screw down the valve cover to prevent leaks. (Tighten the screw mechanism.)

• Screw off (verb phrase): to remove or loosen by turning a screw.

  • Screw off the valve cap before adjusting the flow. (Loosen and remove the screw part.)

Related Idioms

(Note: No common idioms directly use "screw valve" as a phrase, but idioms with "screw" exist.) - Put the screws on: to apply pressure or force. - The manager put the screws on the team to finish the project. (Not directly related to a valve, but uses the same word.)

Additional Notes

• Screw valves are commonly used in plumbing, industrial piping, and laboratory equipment where precise flow control is needed. They are distinct from ball valves or gate valves in that the screw mechanism allows gradual, incremental changes.