Three-way mixing dividing valve. Thermostatic mixing valves - principle of operation, connection diagrams. The use of a three-way thermostatic valve in various engineering systems Three-way separating valve with an electric drive
Responsible for regulating the temperature of the coolant in heating systems. However, in practice there are heating schemes with several circuits, each of which requires water with a certain temperature. To make this possible, a three-way valve is introduced into the system. The principle of operation of this device is based on the separation of liquids with different degrees of heating.
Construction of a three-way valve
Outwardly, this device looks like an ordinary tee made of brass or bronze with a valve installed on its upper face. It is rigidly connected to the regulating sector - a spherical metal plate, which mixes the two fluid flows. The mixing tee has two inlets for hot and cold water, and one outlet for supplying a mixed heat carrier.
The indicator according to which the group to which the three-way crane belongs is distinguished is the principle of operation. It is based on a change in the position of the valve, with which the position of the control sector also changes. The valve shuts off two fluid streams to varying degrees.
By changing the amount of hot and cold water that enters the main system, the temperature of the coolant is regulated. Depending on the type of management, there are:
- manual;
- electric;
- three-way thermostatic valve.
The principle of operation of each device has fundamental differences.
Manual three-way valves
Manual taps have special swivel handles - lambs - which control the flow of coolant. By setting the valve to a certain position, it is possible to change the amount of hot and cold water that enters the system.
Uneven and prolonged heating of radiators located at a considerable distance from the boiler is the main drawback that a three-way manual valve has. The principle of operation of this device does not allow constantly varying the amount of incoming liquid with different degrees of heating.
Electric three-way valves
The main difference between the valves of this type is the presence of a servo drive and an electronic control unit, with the help of which the temperature of the coolant is regulated. The main advantage of the device is the ability to maintain a given degree of heating of the liquid in automatic mode.
Any three-way valve can be equipped with a servomotor. The principle of operation of such devices is based on the interaction of the control unit and the electric motor. The unit measures the temperature of the medium at the outlet and sends commands to the propulsion unit. That, changing its position, regulates the amount of warm and cold fluid entering the system.
Thermostatic three-way valves
The design of the presented crane has a thermostat - gas or a special liquid. It is placed in a cavity inside the valve and reacts even to slight changes in the heating of the current medium.
When the temperature rises, the liquid or gas expands and pushes a special piston that blocks access to hot water.
The principle of operation of a three-way valve with a thermostat requires its precise adjustment before being introduced into the system. To do this, set the temperature limits, thereby regulating the degree of heating of the coolant. The main advantage of the device is absolute autonomy.
Dividing three-way valve
The equipment described above is designed for mixing liquids of various temperatures. The principle of operation of the three-way diverter type valve has several major differences. As the name suggests, it is used to separate one stream of water from another. Unlike mixers, the dividing tap has only one inlet and two outlets, which are located on the same axis.
In these devices, the regulating sector with a change in the temperature of the main liquid blocks the openings of the outlet pipes. Such equipment is most often used to switch the flow of fluid from one piping system to another, which allows you to adjust the amount of water simultaneously in various heating circuits and in other structures.
Features of device selection
The first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a three-way valve is the principle of operation of the device. Manually controlled designs are suitable for budget heating systems, for example, for a country house, where you visit once a season.
Electrical devices can be used in the heating circuits of buildings intended for permanent residence. If you rely on ease of operation and reliability, then it is better to choose taps with a thermostat.
For systems with a high coolant temperature, it is not recommended to purchase a three-way valve, the principle of which is based on the expansion of liquid or gas - they will quickly fail. In such structures, special fittings should be installed.
It is important that the diameter of the pipeline matches the diameters of the inlet and outlet pipes of the valve. Only in this case the throughput of the circuit will not be affected, and the installation will be carried out without additional elements.
Especially popular both among our compatriots and all over the world is the Esbe three-way valve, the principle of operation of which is based on the expansion of thermoregulatory fluid. Such devices are highly reliable and accurate, suitable for most heating systems.
Responsibly approach the choice of three-way valves for complex heating circuits. Otherwise, you risk getting an inefficient system that will not cope with its duties.
One of the main guarantees of comfort in the house during the cold season is the heat provided by the heating system. Today, the water heating system includes not only batteries, pipes and a boiler, but also less noticeable, but important elements. One of them is shut-off and control valves, in particular, a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat. Let's see why this part of the system is so important and what it is intended for.
The thermostatic valve guarantees the practicality and efficiency of the system. Three-way valves for heating are designed to regulate the heat flow, which ensures indoor comfort and economy of use.
Why regulate heat flow?
Before proceeding with the design of the heating system, a thermal calculation is made. Based on its results, a suitable power and type of heating devices are selected that can maintain the optimum temperature in the room.
The area of \u200b\u200bthe room is taken into account, after which possible heat losses are analyzed. Based on this, the performance of the heating system is calculated, which is necessary to create a comfortable microclimate in the rooms. After that, a heat balance is compiled for all rooms.
However, these calculations are made under specific conditions, which may change during operation. Factors affecting the operation of the radiator are different:
- temperature fluctuations in the street;
- solar Activity;
- wind power;
- the presence of household appliances that generate heat.
As a result, the calculated temperature balance is disturbed, and the room becomes hot. However, it is impossible to remove parts of the radiator from the room or dampen the heat radiation. Thus, it becomes necessary to control the energy generated by thermal appliances in order to maintain a comfortable microclimate in the room.
Maintaining a comfortable temperature with a three-way valve for heating
There are two ways to adjust the energy released by the radiator:
- A qualitative change in the properties of the radiator.
- Quantitative regulation of the generated heat.
In both cases, manipulations with the liquid circulating through the pipes are necessary.
Qualitative change in the properties of the radiator
In order to regulate the microclimate in the room, it is possible to transfer the heat generator to a different mode of operation - as a result of which the temperature of the water supplied to the radiators changes.
You can switch the mode on the wall-mounted boiler, if we are talking about a country house. However, the situation is much more complicated in the case of a boiler house in an urban microdistrict.
Helpful advice! In the case of a city apartment, when you do not have access to the boiler room, it remains to regulate the energy already released by the coolant.
Quantitative adjustment of the heat flow using a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat
In the case when you cannot influence the temperature of the water entering the radiator, you can adjust its amount. For this, it is necessary to buy three-way valves for heating with a thermostat. These devices allow you to limit the amount of water passing through the radiator, and as a result, with the same area of \u200b\u200bthe battery, more or less heat will enter the room, of course, within the limits limited by the capacity of the system.
The three-way valve for the heating system and the temperature controller mounted on the radiator can be used separately, however, in autonomous heating systems of modern apartments and private cottages, a combined method is often used to increase efficiency. Thus, it is advisable to purchase a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat.
Heat flux adjustment limit
It is important to take into account that the principle of operation of the three-way mixing valve allows you to increase or decrease the temperature of the radiator only within the established limits. These limits are dictated by the technical characteristics of the thermal device, namely, the value of its maximum heat transfer, and depend on each particular radiator.
Three-way valve device for heating
To understand how three-way valves work in a heating system, it is important to understand its structure.
Visually, this device looks like an ordinary metal tee. Brass is usually used as the material for the manufacture of the valve, sometimes cast iron or steel is taken. There are three nozzles in the body of the device.
However, inside the tee there is a mechanism on which the principle of operation of three-way valves is based. It automatically regulates heat flows, allowing you to maintain a comfortable microclimate in the room.
The principle of operation of three-way valves in the heating system, depending on the type of actuator
There are two types of actuators that affect the operation of a three-way valve in a heating system.
Three way valve actuator types:
Actuator type | Principle of operation | Device |
Saddle actuators | Equipped with a rod that moves up or down in translation. | Inside the body there is a seat covered with a cone, which is fixed at the end of the working rod. |
Rotary actuators | Equipped with a ball or sector that rotates. | The stem does not move vertically, but the drive rotates it so that the movement of the ball with the opening, as in ball valves, opens or, on the contrary, partially blocks the communication between the nozzles. |
Helpful advice! For domestic use, you can choose a valve with a closing working part-sector or with a ball: such models are optimal for cases where resistance to extremely high temperatures and high throughput are not required.
Types of three-way valve actuators
An external drive is responsible for moving the working rod. There are several variations of this part of the system.
Three-way thermostatic mixing valves
According to the principle of operation, three-way thermostatic valves are divided into:
- direct acting valves;
- indirect valves.
Most often, this type of valve is used in domestic installations, and the price of a three-way thermostatic valve is lower than other types of this equipment.
This type of device functions as follows: when the temperature of the thermal device changes, the expanding liquid of the “bellows”, the temperature-sensitive element, presses on the working part of the device, the rod. The thermal head of the three-way valve is also located here, however, this element is not present in all devices.
The sensor in such a valve can also be a probe located inside the pipeline.
Electric 3-way valves
Various elements act as an electric drive for three-way control valves with an electric drive. There are two varieties:
- three-way valves for heating with an electric drive in the form of an electric magnet;
- three-way valves with a servo-driven electric motor.
The actuator receives a command directly from the temperature sensors or from the control controller. Models of three-way valves for heating with an electric drive are the most effective, as they allow for the most accurate adjustment of heat flows.
Helpful advice! You can buy three-way valves for heating without a standard drive, and then choose the most suitable fixture option for your purposes.
Electrically actuated three-way valves: features and benefits
Regardless of the position of the stem in the three-way valve, the circulation does not stop, therefore this type of device is not suitable for reducing the coolant flow. This is the main difference between a three-way ball valve with an electric drive and two-way valves, regulators and other devices.
The principle of operation of a three-way valve with an electric actuator
This valve is designed for mixing or separation, distribution of flows. The diverter valve controls the amount of water by allowing some of the liquid to pass through the bypass instead of the direct route. Two nozzles of the device serve for the exit, and one for the entrance.
The principle of operation of a three-way mixing valve with a thermal head is based on mixing a colder fluid with a hot fluid or a hotter fluid with a cold one. As a result, the qualitative characteristic, namely the temperature of the heat flow, changes, while the level of this change depends on the established proportion of the connected jets.
Related article:
How to make water heating in the house with your own hands. Construction drawings. The difference between natural and forced water circulation.
Two ports for input and one for output can also perform a separating function. Such valves can be used in various removals.
It is often relevant to use three-way valves for solid fuel boilers, in the chamber of which condensate forms at the beginning of the furnace. In this case, the valve helps to temporarily cut off cold water, and let part of the heated liquid flow through a short circuit.
Three-way valves for underfloor heating and other uses
There are several options for using this type of valve:
- Three-way mixing valves for underfloor heating are installed to prevent overheating of individual veto systems. As a result, the water heated floor heats up evenly, which contributes to a comfortable indoor climate, as well as the safety of the system.
- The purchase of three-way valves for solid fuel boilers allows you to cope with the situation when condensate forms in the boiler chamber at the beginning of the furnace.
- Three-way valves are installed in the heating system to separate the flows and feed the DHW circuit.
- Three-way devices are used for bypass piping of radiators.
- The valves are optimal for creating a short circuit when preparing the return.
Three-way valve for heating with a thermostat: principle of operation and purpose
Thermostats are installed on the radiator plugs. If necessary, these devices completely or partially block the flow of the coolant. The tap performs the same function, however, if you have a thermostat, you set the necessary parameters once, after which the thermal valve maintains the set temperature on its own. Electronic thermal valves provide the highest accuracy and functionality.
It is important to understand that the thermostat is not able to change the initial power of the heat source, however, it allows you to correctly manage thermal energy and create comfortable conditions in the room.
Helpful advice! In the case of cast iron batteries, the use of a thermostat is pointless, since the thermal inertia is too high. As a result, although the price of a three-way thermostatic heating valve is higher than the usual price of a three-way mixing valve, the temperature controller greatly improves the usability and efficiency of the device.
The principle of operation of the thermostat
The temperature controller is a two-way device consisting of two main parts:
- valve ("valve");
- thermal head.
Thermostat device:
Element | Function | Device | Operating principle |
Valve (valve) | locking mechanism | Consists of seat, cone and stem. | The working stem retracts, reducing the distance between the seat and the cone and thereby reducing the flow. As the distance between these parts increases, the flow, on the contrary, increases. |
Thermal head | stem control | In the “bellows” (special cylinder) the thermosensitive substance is closed. | The principle of operation is based on the expansion of gas and liquids in the event of heating. Under the action of a hot coolant, the substance in the bellows expands, pushing the spring-loaded piston. He acts on the rod with a cone in the direction of the saddle. With a decrease in the coolant flow, cooling occurs and, accordingly, a decrease in the volume of the active substance. The spring returns the piston, cone and rod to their place, and the flow is increased. Repeating the cycle allows you to adjust the degree of heating of the radiator with high accuracy. |
Helpful advice! The efficiency of the thermostat is based on the accuracy and speed of response of the thermal head to setting modes and changing them. The faster this reaction, the better the device, and the higher the price of a three-way valve.
Varieties of thermostats for the radiator
There are several types of classification of thermostats for a three-way valve.
Classification of thermostats according to the method of setting the temperature and controlling the temperature regime:
Type of thermostat | Peculiarities |
Mechanical thermostats | Pre-installation of the device is carried out using the handle with divisions. The stem is driven by a bellows and a return spring. |
Manual thermostats | The principle of operation is similar to a conventional faucet. It is easy to replace such a model with a regulator for automatic operation of valves under changing conditions. |
Electronic thermostats | They have a digital panel. Batteries are the source of energy. Take into account the temperature of the coolant. Allows you to program the mode by time. |
Manual and mechanical thermostats can be divided according to the type of active substance in the bellows. As a temperature-sensitive substance in the bellows, liquid or gas can be used, respectively, temperature controllers are:
- liquid;
- gas.
Also, thermostats are divided by purpose. Depending on the features, thermostats are designed:
- for two-pipe distribution systems;
- for single-pipe distribution systems.
According to the connection method, thermostats are:
- corner;
- straight.
Choosing a three-way valve: features of models from different companies
To choose the right valve, you need to compare all the characteristics of different models, namely the type of actuator, type of actuator, the presence and type of thermostat, as well as the manufacturer and price of a three-way heating valve. It is worth paying attention to models from leading manufacturers.
Esbe three-way valves: installation instructions and features
Among the main advantages of Esbe models are simplicity and affordable cost.
Helpful advice!If you need to adjust the tap, give up simple models, the main drawback of which is the inability to stabilize the outlet temperature.
When installing the valve, a number of features should be considered:
- The mixing unit allows you to create an additional circuit in the system, connected to the distribution manifold by two points, which guarantees uninterrupted circulation of water at the outlet.
- At the inlet, the flow is provided in case of need for additional heat.
- The thermostatic valve is connected to the mixing unit.
- To increase the consumption of pumping equipment, which is often insufficient due to the narrowness of the valves converging at one point, it is necessary to create an additional line that reduces the power consumption of the pump. However, such measures are not relevant for all Esbee models.
- If a second line is required, a balancing valve is to be installed or a pump is connected to this additional line, which leads to equalization of the temperatures of the inlet and outlet flows.
Navien three-way valves: features and benefits
The company Navien specializes in the production of heating boilers. The three-way valves of this equipment are designed to change priorities between heating water for water supply and the heating system. These valves are worth buying if you have Navien equipment, because components and equipment from one manufacturer are the key to a long and efficient operation of the system.
Danfoss three-way valves: features and benefits
Danfoss valves are used in heating and water supply systems. Among the advantages of this type of equipment:
- stability and accuracy of adjustment;
- perfect compatibility with other Danfoss thermostatic elements;
- reliability and long service life without loss of performance;
- ease of installation, maintenance and operation;
- fully automatic operation;
- the possibility of installation on the pipeline in any position, except for the valve down.
Having carefully studied the technical specifications and tips for choosing a three-way valve for heating systems, you can choose the right device for a specific room and operating conditions.
There is one of the elements of valves, which is quite often used in space heating systems. In any case, it will not be possible to do without it when designing. This is for thermostatic heating. The device has the shape of a tee and is designed to connect or separate water flows.
Mixing valves
Controlling the heating of the outgoing streams is quite simple. To do this, it is enough to determine the temperature of the incoming cold and hot liquids and regulate their supply in the required proportions. According to the principle of operation, three-way valves for heating systems function as dividing and mixing valves. How each type of device works can be understood by name.
The mixing valve has two inlets and one outlet. Such a device is designed to combine flows, for example, hot and cold water, which is necessary to regulate the heating of the coolant. These devices are ideal for creating the required temperature in equipped underfloor heating systems. Devices of this type can also perform the function of stream splitting if installed accordingly.
Dividing valves
A three-way valve for heating with a dividing thermostat divides the main flow into two parts. Such devices are most often used to supply hot water in several directions. Quite often, specialists mount these valves in the piping of air heaters.
The difference between mixing devices and separating devices
Both devices do not differ from each other in appearance. If we consider valve schemes for different functional purposes, one can easily notice a significant difference. In mixing devices, a stem is installed with a single one. It is placed in the center in order to block the saddle of the inlet. In separating devices, there are two such valves on one stem, and they are mounted in the outlet pipes. When the first opens one passage, moving away from the saddle, the second at this time blocks the flow of water through the main.
Control methods
Every day, the three-way valve for electric heating is becoming more and more popular with buyers. They prefer to buy hand-held devices only in order to save money. Automatic electrical systems are quite often used in the operation of heat distribution systems in private homes.
For example, the temperature in the rooms can be regulated separately, taking into account the distance from the boiler. Such valves are easily compatible with underfloor heating systems. On the heat pipeline between buildings, devices with increased traffic are often installed.
Valve selection
Like all other devices, three-way valves differ in the pressure of the coolant and the diameter of the supply pipe. These characteristics determine the creation of GOST, which allows for certification. Non-compliance with state standards by manufacturers is a gross violation because the issue may relate to the pressure inside the pipelines.
Functional Benefits
It must be understood that three-way heating systems for mixing type do not change the pressure of the coolant, but only regulate the ratio of cold and hot water supply in the system. The stem is always equipped with a double O-ring, the outer part of which can be replaced without the need to drain the entire structure. The valve body is made only of materials resistant to corrosion. The stainless drain has a double O-ring seal. Connections are made with a soldered, threaded or welded fitting.
Automatic systems
A three-way valve for heating with a Valtec thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature of the liquid. To make this possible, the devices are equipped with a special drive system that receives impulses from various sensors. There are hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical and other devices.
Electric drives
The most common are devices with an electric drive that can carry out the most accurate control of the temperature of the coolants. The trigger mechanism in such a system can be electromagnets (solenoids) or complex servo drives built on transmission systems or low-power electric motors. The three-way valve for heating with a thermostat can be controlled by temperature detectors or pressure sensors, which are mounted in the relevant parts of the piping units.
In addition to electric, another type of actuator can be installed on the valves at the same time. A complete set of this type will expand the possibility of choosing and installing a control system that can most optimally ensure high-quality work in each specific case.
Technical information
Three-way for heating is one of the varieties of valves and is created mostly from stainless steel, brass or cast iron. According to the shutter method or shape, such mechanisms are divided into spherical, cylindrical and conical. Tension or gland landing of the shutter is possible. Adjustment is made from the bottom side of the device with a nut or from above using an oil seal.
Device selection
If you need to choose a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat, it is better to first determine the type of system in which it will be used. You should pay attention to the type of drive, as well as the regulating device of the mechanism. It can be a ball rotating around an axis or a rod made according to some specific principle. Regulating elements distribute fluid flows, and do not block them. Such devices are very efficient and quite reliable. Many buyers recommend a three-way valve for heating with an Esbe thermostat.
Prices for three-way valves
The cost of valves in the domestic market has a very wide range and may depend on certain factors. This feature is typical for most thermal equipment. The main distinguishing quality is the material from which the device is made. Cast iron and steel valves are mostly used in heating systems and high flow pipelines. Therefore, the price for such devices will be higher than for brass ones, the dimensions of which are much smaller.
Today, an alternative to three-way valves has not yet been invented, therefore, only thanks to these devices, it is possible to adjust the temperature when the coolant is supplied to the heating system. The production technology has been perfected to the smallest nuances, so choosing a device that meets specific requirements will never be difficult. Today, in the domestic market, you can purchase a three-way valve for heating from leading European manufacturers. The quality of these devices has been tested for several decades of correct operation.
Features of the use of devices with an electric drive
Such valves are often used when mixing or separating hot, cold water or air flows. The devices operate together with variable speed drives. Control devices must not be installed in positions where water can enter. In some instruments, no adjustment is necessary during assembly. For this, special mixing and distributing valves are provided.
Installation
The mixing or dividing three-way valve for heating must be installed in accordance with the intended use, using conventional threaded connections with flat seals. Contamination must be avoided. When installing, the direction of flow should be paid attention to. Special arrows are provided on the valve body for this.
Rotary dampers
Such components enable the system to operate in manual and automatic temperature control modes. The principle of operation of such valves is as follows. The amount of coolant passed into the heating system will be equal to the volume of water taken back. Thus, the required temperature will be maintained without additional operation of the boiler.
Conclusion
The three-way valve for heating with a thermostat is designed to separate or connect cold and hot water flows in space heating systems. Depending on the volume of the coolant, as well as the dimensions of the heating networks, the required throughput, dimensions and material from which the device should be made are determined.
The water temperature is controlled manually or through the operation of automatic hydraulic, pneumatic or electric actuators equipped with special temperature sensors. In some types of valves, mechanisms are provided that make it possible to select a mixing or dividing valve operation mode. In the domestic market, devices with an electric drive are the most popular.
Among the valves for the heating system, there is one element that is not used very often. It has a shape resembling a tee, but performs completely different functions. This is a three-way valve with a special operating principle.
What is this device for, and what functions does it perform?
The principle of operation of the device
Valve operationSuch a valve is installed in those places of the pipeline where it is necessary to divide the circulation flow into two circuits:
- With constant hydraulic mode.
- With variables.
Usually, a constant hydraulic flow is used by consumers for whom a high-quality coolant of a certain volume is supplied. It is regulated depending on the quality indicators. A variable flow is consumed by those objects for which quality indicators are not the main ones. They care about the quantitative factor. That is, for them, the supply is adjusted according to the required amount of coolant.
There are in the category of valves and two-way counterparts. What is the difference between these two types? A three-way valve works in a completely different way. In its design, the stem cannot block the flow with a constant hydraulic regime. It is always open and set to a certain volume of coolant. This means that consumers will receive the required volume both in quantitative and qualitative terms.
Essentially, the valve cannot shut off the supply to a circuit with constant hydraulic flow. But it is capable of blocking a variable direction, thereby allowing you to adjust the pressure and flow.
If you combine two two-way valves, you get a three-way design. In this case, both valves must work reversibly, that is, when the first is closed, the second must open.
Types of three-way valves
According to the principle of action, this type is divided into two subspecies:
- Mixing.
- Dividing.
Already by the name you can understand how each type works. The mixer has one outlet and two inlets. That is, it performs the function of mixing two streams, which is necessary to lower the temperature of the coolant. By the way, to create the desired temperature in underfloor heating systems, this is an ideal device.
Valve types
Adjusting the temperature of the outgoing ceiling is quite simple. To do this, it is necessary to know the temperature of the two incoming streams and accurately calculate the proportions of each in order to obtain the required temperature regime at the outlet. By the way, this type of device, if properly installed and adjusted, can also work on the principle of flow separation.
A three-way dividing valve splits the main flow into two. Therefore, it has two outputs and one input. This device is commonly used for hot water separation in hot water systems. Often, experts install it in the piping of air heaters.
In appearance, both devices are no different from each other. But if we consider their drawing in section, then there is one difference that immediately catches the eye. The mixing device has a stem with one ball valve. It is located in the center and covers the saddle of the main passage. There are two such valves in the separation valve on one stem, and they are installed in the outlet pipes. The principle of their operation is as follows - the first closes one passage, clinging to the saddle, and the second at this time opens another passage.
A modern three-way valve is divided into two types according to the control method:
- Manual.
- Electric.
Actuated valve
More often you have to deal with a manual version, which is similar to a regular ball valve, only with three nozzles - outlets. Electric automatic systems are most often used for heat distribution in private housing construction. . For example, you can set the temperature by room, distributing the coolant depending on the distance of the room from the heating boiler. Or provide a combination with the underfloor heating system. Large cross-country devices are installed on heat pipes between buildings.
Like any device, a three-way valve is determined by the diameter of the supply pipe and the pressure of the coolant. Hence the GOST, which allows for certification. Failure to comply with GOST is a gross violation, especially when it comes to pressure inside the pipeline.
In a wide range of valves used for heating systems, there is an element that is used quite rarely. Its shape resembles a tee, although the functions it performs are completely different. We are talking about a three-way valve, the principle of operation of which will be discussed in this article.
The principle of operation of the three-way valve
What is this device, why is it needed at all?
How it works
The three-way valve is mounted on those sections of the pipelines where it is required to divide the flow of the circulating fluid into 2 circuits:
- with variable hydraulic regime;
- with constant.
In most cases, a constant flow is required for those for whom a liquid of high quality and in the indicated volumes is supplied. It is regulated in accordance with the quality indicators. As for the variable flow, it is used for objects where quality indicators are not the main ones. There, the quantity factor is of great importance. Simply put, the supply of coolant there is carried out according to the required amount.
Note! The shut-off valve also includes an analogue of the device described in the article - a two-way valve. How is it different? The fact is that the three-way option works on a completely different principle. The rod included in its design is unable to block the flow of fluid, which has constant hydraulic performance.
The stem is open all the time, it is adjusted to one or another volume of liquid. Consequently, users will be able to get the volume they need, both in terms of quantity and quality. In general, this device is unable to stop the supply of liquid to a network in which the hydraulic flow is constant. At the same time, it may well block the flow of a variable type, due to which, in fact, it becomes possible to adjust the flow / pressure.
And if you connect a pair of two-way type devices, you can get one, but three-way. But it is necessary that both work on the reverse, in other words, when one valve is closed, the next one should open.
Video - Three-way valve working principle
Valve classification
Without lengthy introductions, we note that the device can be of two types according to the principle of operation. It can be:
- separating;
- mixing.
Features of the action of each type are already clear from their name. The mixing device consists of two outlets and an inlet. In other words, it is necessary for mixing fluid flows, which may be required in order to reduce its temperature. By the way, this is the best option for setting the desired mode in the "warm floor".
The procedure for adjusting the temperature regime is extremely simple. You just need to know about the current temperature indicators of the incoming fluid flows, accurately calculate the required proportions of each of them so that you get the desired indicators at the output. By the way, this device, subject to proper installation and adjustment, can also function for flow separation.
But the dividing valve divides one flow in two, therefore, it is equipped with one inlet and two outlets. This device is mainly used to separate the flow of hot water in DHW systems. Although quite often it is also found in the piping of air heaters.
Outwardly, both options are almost identical. But if you look at their drawing in section, then their main difference is immediately visible. The stem, which is installed in the mixing type device, has one ball valve. It is located in the center and blocks the main passage.
As for separating devices, in them the stem has two such valves, which are installed at the outlets. They function according to the following principle: one of them is pressed against the saddle, closing the passage, and the other simultaneously opens passage No. 2.
According to the management method, modern models can be:
- electric;
- manual.
In most cases, a hand-held device is used, which looks like an ordinary ball valve, but is equipped with three outlet pipes. But electric models with automatic control are used mainly in private homes, namely in order to distribute heat. For example, the user can set the temperature regime by room, and the working fluid will flow in accordance with the distance of the room from the heater. As an option - you can combine it with a "warm floor".
Video - Device in the boiler group
Three-way valves, as well as other devices, are defined according to the system pressure and inlet diameter. All this is regulated by GOST. And if the requirements of the latter are not met, this will be regarded as a gross violation, especially when it comes to the pressure indicator in the line.
Applications
The three-way valve, the principle of operation of which was discussed above, has a fairly wide scope. So, its varieties, such as an electromagnetic device or a device with a thermal head, are often found in modern highways, where it is necessary to adjust the proportions when mixing two separated liquid streams, but without reducing power or volume.
As for domestic use, the most popular here is a thermostatic mixing device, with which, as noted above, you can adjust the temperature of the working fluid. This liquid can be supplied both to the "warm floor" pipeline and to heating radiators. And if the valve also has automatic control, then it will be possible to control the temperature in the home without any problems!
Note! The use of a three-way valve in a heating system in order to balance temperature fluctuations is extremely beneficial not only in terms of comfort and convenience, but also in terms of cost savings.
The fact is that by regulating the temperature of the liquid on the "return" of the heater, it is possible to significantly reduce the amount of fuel consumed, and this will have a positive effect on the efficiency of the system itself. In some systems, a valve is simply necessary. For example, in a "warm floor" system, this device prevents the floor covering from overheating above a given comfort level, thereby relieving users of discomfort.
Control devices of this kind are also used in water supply systems in order to obtain a permanent flow at the required temperature. The simplest example is an ordinary faucet, where you can make water hot/cooler by opening/closing a cold faucet.
Adjusting the flow of the working fluid. What to look for when buying?
Manual adjustment is made by means of a conventional ball valve. Visually, it is very similar to a simple valve, but has an additional outlet. Armature of this kind is used for forced manual control.
As for automatic adjustment, a special three-way valve is used here, equipped with an electromechanical device for changing the position of the stem. It should be connected to a thermostat in order to be able to adjust the temperature in the room.
Remember that when buying a valve, it is imperative to take into account the technical parameters of the device, which include the following.
- Diameter of connection to the heating main. Often this indicator varies from 2 to 4 centimeters, although much depends on the characteristics of the system itself. If the device of a suitable diameter could not be found, then you will have to use special adapters.
- The possibility of installing a servo drive on a three-way valve, the principle of operation is considered at the beginning of the article. Thanks to this, the device will be able to work automatically. This moment is very important if the device is selected for operation in "warm floors" of the water type.
- Finally, this is the throughput of the pipeline. This concept refers to the volume of liquid that can pass through it in a certain time.
Popular manufacturers
There are many manufacturers of three-way valves on the domestic market. The choice of a particular model depends primarily on:
- type of mechanism (and, we recall, it can be mechanical or electrical);
- areas of use (DHW, cold water, "warm floor", heating).
The most popular device is considered to be Esbe is a Swedish valve from a company that has been around for over a hundred years. This is a reliable, high-quality and durable product that has proven itself in many areas. Combination of European quality and modern technologies.
Another popular model is the American Honeywell - a true brainchild of high technology. Simple operation, convenience and comfort, compactness and reliability are the distinguishing features of these valves.
Finally, relatively "young", but promising devices are valves of the Valtec line - the result of a joint collaboration between Italian and Russian engineers. All products are of high quality, sold with a warranty period of seven years. They differ in that they have a very affordable price.
How to install a mixing valve with your own hands
This installation scheme is used mainly in boiler rooms of those heating systems that are connected to a hydraulic separator or to a non-pressure collector. And the pump located in circuit No. 2 provides the required circulation of the working fluid.
Note! If the three-way valve will be connected directly to a bypass heat source connected to port B, then a valve with a hydraulic resistance equal to the same resistance of this source will also be required.
If this is not done, then the flow rate of the working fluid in the segment A-B will fluctuate in accordance with the movement of the rod. We also note that this installation scheme provides for the possible termination of the circulation of liquid through the source if the installation was carried out without a circulation pump or a hydraulic separator in the main circuit.
It is undesirable to connect the valve to heating networks or a pressure manifold in the absence of devices that throttle excessive pressure. Otherwise, the flow rate of the liquid in the section A-B will fluctuate, and significantly.
If overheating of the return is allowed, excessive pressure is eliminated by means of a jumper installed in parallel to the valve admixture in the circuit.
How to install a dividing valve with your own hands
Providing quantitative adjustment by changing the flow of fluid is the main function that such a three-way valve performs. The principle of its operation is extremely simple and has been discussed above. It is used where it is possible to bypass the liquid to the "return", and the termination of circulation, on the contrary, is not allowed.
Note! This connection scheme has gained wide popularity in water and air heating units that are connected from individual boiler houses.
In order to link the hydraulic circuits, it is necessary that the pressure loss of the consumer be equal to the loss on the balancing valve in the bypass. The diagram shown here is intended for installation on those pipelines in which there is excessive pressure. The liquid in this case moves due to the strong pressure generated by the circulation pump.
Video - Three-way valve and its principle of operation