A three-way valve is a valve with three ports, used to regulate or direct fluid flow. These valves are versatile and can perform mixing or diverting functions, depending on the internal design of the valve and how it is configured.
- Mixing Valve: Combines flows from two inlets into one outlet. Used in applications where precise temperature or flow control is needed, such as in heating or cooling systems.
- Diverting Valve: Directs fluid from one inlet to one of two outlets. Common in systems that need to alternate flow between two paths.
- T-Port and L-Port Configuration: Allows flow to be directed to one, two, or all three ports simultaneously. Ideal for applications requiring flow distribution.
- L-Port: Directs flow to one of two outlets but does not allow simultaneous flow to both. Best for simple switching between two paths.
- Mixing Mode: Fluid enters through two inlets and is mixed in the valve before exiting through the single outlet. Used in applications requiring proportional blending, such as HVAC systems.
- Diverting Mode: Fluid enters through two inlets and is mixed in the valve before exiting through the single outlet. Used in applications requiring proportional blending, such as HVAC systems.
