When do you choose rotary valves over linear valves?

Rotary valves (ball, butterfly, plug) preferred: large line sizes (3 inches and above - more economical), high flow capacity required (higher Cv per size), on-off or moderate throttling service, slurries and viscous fluids (straight-through flow path), tight shutoff requirement (ball valves), and high pressure/temperature service. Linear valves (globe) preferred: precise throttling control, wide rangeability needed, smaller sizes (often more economical below 3 inches), high pressure drop applications, and cavitating service (better anti-cavitation trim available). Consider installed cost, maintenance, and specific process requirements.