Valves have different types and functions depending on the type of service. The main types are on-off valves like gate valves, plug valves, and ball valves which are used to start and stop flow. Throttling or regulating valves like globe valves and butterfly valves are used to control the flow rate. Check valves prevent backflow and include swing check valves, lift check valves, and ball check valves. Pressure relief valves like safety valves and relief valves are used to release excess pressure to protect systems. Control valves combined with actuators, controllers and sensors are used for automatic pressure control.