3-way, three-way ball valves
Three-way ball valves are advanced hydraulic system components that allow for effective control of medium flow. They stand out with three ports (inlets/outlets), enabling their use in various flow configurations. The main operating principle involves directing the medium to the left, to the right, or cutting off the flow, making them an ideal solution in situations requiring flexible control. The task of 3-way hydraulic valves is to switch oil flow between two alternative outputs in a hydraulic system. Our offer includes the highest quality three-way ( three-way, 3-way ) ball valves designed for power hydraulics, opening or closing the flow of liquids in hydraulic systems. Three-way valves have three identical internal threads. Valves can be reduced by using a straight fitting ( we can change the thread to any other and thus connect any finished hydraulic hose. They allow for closing and changing the fluid flow. Valves available in L version and T version.
Types of three-way valves - L, T version
Three-way valves come in two main flow configurations: L-version valves – the medium flow occurs between two selected ports, creating an "L" shape. These types of valves are ideal for simple switching between two sources or two flow directions. T-version valves – enable flow in three ports simultaneously or directing the medium to any two ports. The "T" version is more versatile and used in more complex hydraulic systems. The interior of the valve contains a rotating ball with holes, the position of which controls the flow of the medium. Thanks to this solution, these valves are characterized by high tightness and reliability. All valves have pre-drilled mounting holes in the body ( designed for easy and simple installation ) Switching the valve occurs by moving the valve handle - we open the left side or the right side.
Application of three-way valves
Three-way ball valves are used in various industries, such as: Hydraulic industry – for directing the flow of working fluids in systems. Chemical and petrochemical industry – in gas and liquid transmission systems. Water installations – for controlling flow in water distribution systems. Their durable construction and resistance to very high pressures and various media make them an indispensable element in demanding working conditions.
Classification of three-way valves
Three-way valves are divided into two main types based on the type of threads: Three-way valves with metric threads – designed for installations using metric threads. They are characterized by high manufacturing precision and are ideal for systems compliant with European standards. Three-way valves with BSP inch threads – compatible with installations using BSP (British Standard Pipe) type inch threads. Perfect for systems compliant with British and international standards.
Three-way valve operating principle and application
A hydraulic three-way valve is an element in hydraulic systems that enables controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid between three different ports. Thanks to its construction, it allows for changing the flow direction, combining or separating medium streams, which makes it extremely versatile in industrial, mobile, and power hydraulics applications. A hydraulic three-way valve has three connection ports, usually designated as: P (supply) – medium inlet, A and B (outlets) – two outlets between which the flow can be directed. Its operation is based on rotating the ball stem inside the valve, which allows for switching flow between different channels. The two most common flow control variants are: L-shaped flow (TYPE L) : The valve directs the medium from one inlet (P) to one of the outlets (A or B), leaving the second outlet closed. It allows choosing one of two flow directions. T-shaped flow (TYPE T) : The valve can direct the medium simultaneously to both outlets (A and B), separating the flow. It can also completely cut off one of the circuits, depending on the stem position.
Thanks to these configurations, three-way valves are perfect for systems requiring a change in flow direction or separation of the medium to two receivers. Application of hydraulic three-way valves : ✔️ Switching circuits in hydraulic systems – they allow for directing hydraulic oil flow to different sections of the system. ✔️ Combining and separating medium streams – used in installations requiring work with multiple receivers. ✔️ Shutting off flow in one direction – they can function as shut-off valves in power hydraulics. ✔️ Control systems in machines and industrial equipment – e.g., in hydraulic presses, transport systems or oil cooling systems.
