Which valve design has the greatest capability to handle slurries and fluids with high suspended solids?

The ball valve design is particularly well-suited for handling slurries and fluids with high suspended solids due to its unique structure and operation. Unlike globe, gate, or needle valves, a ball valve features a spherical disc that provides a full opening when the valve is fully opened. This design minimizes turbulence and allows for unobstructed flow, which is critical when dealing with materials that have solid particles suspended in liquid.

In addition, the smooth internal surface of a ball valve helps reduce the potential for clogging, which is a significant concern when working with slurry applications. The ball's quick quarter-turn operation also means that the valve can be opened or closed rapidly, which is beneficial for controlling flow in industrial processes where solids might settle or accumulate quickly.

Thus, the features of the ball valve make it ideal for maintaining flow efficiency and preventing blockage when managing fluids with high solid content.