Three-way valves
Three-way valves are components that are most commonly encountered in power, hydraulic, and heating installations. The task of valves of this type is to control the flow of the heating medium between the heat source and the peripheral installation. Another important function of three-way valves is to protect the heating equipment from corrosion. In our offer, you can find a very wide range of reliable three-way valves. We offer, among others, three-way valve with actuator and hydraulic three-way valve. All products offered by us are characterized by very high quality of workmanship. Thanks to the use of the most durable materials for their production, they can operate at very high temperatures and pressures. Choosing them guarantees reliability and proper operation of the entire installation.
What types of three-way valves are there?
Three-way valves encompass a diverse group of components that vary in their construction, purpose, and mode of operation. Due to their function, two basic types of these valves are distinguished: switching and mixing three-way valves. The first type is used wherever it is necessary to ensure a change in the direction of flow. Such valves are equipped with a special switch whose task is to direct the working fluid to the appropriate inlet. Mixing three-way valves are most commonly used to protect the boiler from low temperature of the medium returning to the system from the peripheral installation. Thanks to the presence of mixing valves, it is easy to combine the supply water with the water returning from the heating installation. Another criterion by which three-way valves can be divided is the method of control. These include, among others, three-way valves with manual, electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic actuators.
Three-way valve – principle of operation
The construction of a three-way valve is very simple. Valves of this type have a T-shaped design and visually resemble tee fittings. They are equipped with three inlets, professionally referred to as ports. Among other important components of the construction of three-way valves are the body, the disc, and the stem. They should be made of very durable materials, especially for high-temperature operation. Bodies are most commonly made of stainless steel, brass, or other equally durable materials. Many companies from various industries use three-way valves every day. The principle of operation of these types of products varies depending on the type of valve. Some of them can be controlled by a controller, while others operate entirely automatically.
Three-way valve – installation method
Three-way valves are very reliable and versatile installation components, and their installation is indeed very simple. They can be placed in the heating system in both vertical and horizontal positions, which is a significant advantage. During installation, it’s important to ensure access to the valve for future maintenance, servicing, and operation. Among other important considerations during installation are ensuring the alignment of water flow directions with the indicator on the valve body and positioning the valve before or after the pump. In central heating installations, the three-way valve should be installed after the pump, while in domestic hot water circulation, it should be installed before the pump.
The most important advantages of three-way valves
Despite their simple construction, three-way valves serve many important functions in heating installations and are highly effective. Their use is very cost-effective and economical. With devices of this type, fuel consumption can be significantly reduced, and the efficiency of the entire system can be increased. Three-way valves are also extremely easy to operate. Failures occur very rarely, and if any problems arise, they can be quickly and easily eliminated. The most common malfunctions result from water temperature being too low and the valve becoming jammed.
GTM Process Valves – reliable three-way valves
GTM Process Valves is a manufacturer and direct importer of industrial valves from around the world. We have a very extensive range of products of proven, high quality. We offer reliable three-way valves designed for the most demanding applications and both domestic and industrial installations. We invite you to explore our entire range of products.