We select the valves for the water supply system: a three-way valve

Usually when the water is supplied at the outlet of the system, mixing valves are put in two turns - for hot water and cold. In order to obtain water of the right temperature, it is appropriately regulated in each of the compartments. However, for more convenient use, valve designs for three holes were created.

Three-way valve: design and application features

Unlike traditional, three-way valve consists of a body and three holes. Two of them are input - hot and cold water comes from the pipes. The third is the output, out of which water, the temperature of which is regulated by the consumer, flows out. The big plus of the system is that the water pressure at the outlet is always constant. The ratio of hot and cold can be changed, the flow of the same feed is automatically adjusted.

The three-way valve is equipped with a special rod, moving which, the user regulates the temperature regime. In other designs, instead of a rod, a ball is rotated around the axis. The convenience of such a valve is that the water access does not overlap completely, but just inside it the flow of hot and cold liquid is redistributed, which leads to mixing them in different proportions.

The three-way valve operates in manual mode and in automatic mode. To it the drive system connected with various temperature gauges is brought . From them, the system receives appropriate signals about how much higher the zero temperature of water in the water pipes. The three-way mixing valve is most often produced with hydraulic drives, electric, etc. The latter type is most popular, because With its help you can make a fairly accurate adjustment.

It is possible to continuously regulate not only the supply of cold and hot water, but also the air temperature, if the equipment is used in ventilation, cooling and heating systems . This explains the wide scope of the element. The three-way valve is indispensable in solar heating and solar collector systems , in systems with hot circulating water supply and without it, under floor heating and in many other ways.

Valves are produced from such durable, wear-resistant materials as cast iron, brass, steel, bronze. The electric drive is included in the complete set of some designs.

Separate benefits

Not only the valve regulating three-way valve itself is made from high-strength raw materials, but also supplementing its working parts. Thus, the rod is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Its double O-ring seal allows replacement of the out-of-order external ring without disassembling the entire system.

Valve connecting elements are universal. To the system, it is connected by means of fittings of different types - welded, threaded, soldered. This facilitates the maintenance of the valve and its operation.

Thermostat valve

In addition to conventional three-way valves, new models have appeared on the market - thermostats. With the correct selection of parameters, they can be mounted in both heating and water supply systems. Thus, a valve with a thermostat is considered an almost universal device.

General recommendations

Before buying any three-way valves, you need to make sure which option is right for your water or heating system and whether they meet the tasks for which they are purchased. Technical features and capabilities are described in detail in the accompanying passport instructions, which should be read in detail.