BALL VALVES
Understanding the 3-way ball valve and its functions
This article will explore in detail what 3-way ball valves are and what their main functions are , their basic design and operation , and the different ways in which they are used in various applications .
Text and images by FHT valves
In the world of industry and engineering , there are a wide variety of valves used to regulate the flow of liquids or gases in piping systems . One of the most versatile and popular options are 3-way ball valves . These valves are key components in gas pipeline systems , oil pipelines , chemical engineering , industrial processes and many other applications .
What is a 3-way ball valve
3-way ball valves are devices used in piping systems to control and regulate the flow of liquids or gases in multiple directions . Their design consists of a ball with a hole in the centre that rotates inside a valve body . This ball has three orifices , allowing flow in different directions depending on the position in which it is located . These valves are especially useful when you need to change the direction of flow or combine different fluid streams . Their operation is simple : by turning the valve lever or handwheel , the ball moves and the orifices align with different conduits , allowing or blocking the passage of the fluid . 3-way ball valves are used in a wide variety of applications . In air conditioning systems , for example , they can direct the flow of hot or cold water to different areas of a building . In the chemical industry , they are used to mix different products or redirect the flow to different processes . In addition to their versatility , these valves offer several advantages . Their compact and efficient design allows for easy installation and maintenance . They also provide a tight seal , preventing leakage and ensuring precise flow control . Some 3-way ball valves even include additional features , such as a locking lever or visual position indicators .
Steps of a 3-way ball valve
3-way ball valves are distinguished by their two main types of passage : L- port and T- port . Each of these passages has specific characteristics and applications . We will explore the steps of a 3-way ball valve in detail , focusing on the L- port and the T- port . We will look at how they work , what their structure is and how they are used in different situations .
3-way ball valves are essential components in piping systems that allow the control and direction of the flow of liquids or gases .
L-Passage 3-way ball valves with the L- port type have specific features and applications that make them ideal for certain scenarios . Here are some of their main features and uses :
Features :
• Direction of flow : The L- port allows the fluid flow to be redirected in one direction or the other . The valve ball has a central orifice that aligns with one of the two inlet / outlet orifices , allowing flow in a specific direction .
• Versatility : These valves offer versatility in flow control by allowing the flow to be adjusted through different combinations of opening and closing the inlet / outlet ports .
• Hermetic sealing : 3-way ball valves with L-port guarantee hermetic sealing when closed , preventing leakage and ensuring precise flow control .
Applications :
• Air conditioning systems : These valves are used in air conditioning systems to control the flow of hot and cold water . They allow directing the flow to different zones or switching between heating and cooling modes .
• Industrial processes : In industry , they are used in processes where mixing of different liquids is required . The L- port allows fluid streams to be combined in specific proportions , which is useful in the manufacture of chemicals , pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs .
• Fluid distribution systems : 3-way ball valves with L- port are also used in fluid distribution systems , such as in the selection of different water sources in a facility or in flow control in irrigation systems .
T- Port The 3-way ball valves with the T- port type have specific features that make them suitable for various applications .
16 Valve World February 2024 www . valve-world . net