Three-way ball valve - the main features of this type of
3-way ball valve is a device with which you can redistribute the direction of flow in the system. Most often, such structures are used in hot water supply systems and heating systems, since they can be used to easily and quickly adjust the temperature of the incoming liquid. Consider the main features of such devices in more detail and deployed.
Design differences of products of this group
Consider what options three-way cranes are found and what are the advantages and disadvantages of this or that option:
| Horizontal layout | The most common type in which all three terminals are located in the horizontal plane, and the adjustment node is on top. This design provides ease of installation, you can put the knot and your own hands, because all that is required is to connect the leads to the pipes using a threaded connection |
| Vertical layout | Its difference is that one of the exits looks down, and the other two are located horizontally. The option is suitable for places in which pipes are not divorced in one plane or a pressure gauge is required to control the pressure in the system. |
| Hand-operated products | The most common and popular group due to the fact that the price of products is very democratic, and the efficiency of work is high. All adjustments are made using the handle, on some models, for convenience, there is a scale in the design, according to which the necessary settings are made |
| Electronically controlled devices | The control unit among specialists is called a servo drive, with its help the system itself can regulate the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the system according to the settings previously entered. It is very important that the installation instructions are observed with all care, the correct operation of the system in the future depends on it. |
How the system works
We will understand the main features of the functioning of three-way cranes and their varieties. You can choose the optimal modification in accordance with the features of your communication networks.
Tip! Before choosing a specific option, you should consult with a qualified specialist, this will eliminate the likelihood of errors caused by lack of knowledge.
Features of operation
The design functions as follows:
- A nozzle through which hot water enters is called an inlet; this is the main heating line, through which the coolant is supplied to the radiators and floor heating.
- The second input is designed to connect the return line, on which there is already cooled water to the heating boiler. With its help, it is possible to adjust the temperature of the supplied liquid, but we will tell about it below.
- The third pipe is the outlet through which the coolant is fed into the system or an individual part of it.. It is through him that the water of the desired temperature is supplied.
The crane works as follows:
- In the fully open position, the hot coolant is fed into the system in full, this allows you to achieve the highest possible temperature. This option is suitable for the coldest periods of the year.
- If it is necessary to reduce the temperature of the supplied water, the flap opens partially. The range of adjustment is very wide, so you can achieve the desired performance.
- In the closed position, only the return flow is circulated through the system, without access to hot water; this option can be used for repair work, when it is necessary to drain water from the system.
Types of designs
The following types can be distinguished:
- Shut-off mechanisms are designed to switch the direction of flow from one pipe to another. Of course, they can also regulate the flow, but this can hardly be done smoothly. The main purpose is the complete closure of the system.
- Adjusting valves have a slightly different purpose: they can be used to mix two streams to the desired temperature, and it is very convenient and simple to do this. The adjustment mechanism is located on the rod, which serves as the core of the system, as noted above, the best option are products with a scale.
Tip! It is necessary to choose products of well-known manufacturers, it guarantees their reliability and durability. Saving on this type of equipment is unacceptable, because in the end you will get an incorrectly working system.
Also, devices can be divided by one more feature:
- Cranes with manual control provide for self-adjustment, that is, the presence of a person is a prerequisite for the operation of the structure. In some situations it is not very convenient, as sometimes there may not be people in the house for a long period of time. The main advantages of this option can be considered low cost and simplicity, but if you need convenience and autonomy, it is better to consider the second option.
- Installations with an electromechanical control system are called three-way valves, since they function without human intervention. A servo actuator is installed on the device stem, which is connected to a thermostat, which determines the temperature in the room and, with its deviations, regulates the position of the flap. A very convenient design, able to work independently, is required only to periodically inspect the nodes.
Conclusion
Three-way valves allow you to save money on heating due to the fact that, if necessary, regulate the temperature of the coolant. The video in this article will help to understand some of the features of the subject in more detail.