Three-way valve on the heating system: connection and operating principle

Adjustment of heat supply is the most important component of any heating system. This function is performed by a tee, designed specifically for the redistribution of the coolant, a three-way valve on the heating system. The main distinguishing features of this device are ease of operation, functionality and compact size.

Description and purpose

A crane for a triple-stroke heating system is mounted directly into the heating system to allow the water temperature to be controlled. Applied such devices in heating circuits, water supply systems, as well as in hot water supply systems.

The product is equipped with one outlet branch pipe and a stopper with holes, through which the flow of coolant flows.

What is the difference between a three-way valve and a two-way valve?

In contrast to the two-way operation of the three-way valve has a completely different principle. The stem in this case does not block the constant flow of the hydraulic regime. It is constantly open and configured for a certain amount. As a result, consumers receive a certain amount in quantitative and qualitative equivalent. In other words, the valve is not able to block movement to the regular hydraulic flow circuit. At the same time, it can cover a variable direction, which allows you to control the flow and head.

The three-way valve on the heating system was obtained by combining a pair of two-way devices. Only both must necessarily work consistently - when one closes, the second begins its work.

Areas of use

Due to its functionality this device can be found in almost all spheres of human activity , in particular, in every house equipped with an individual heating system: a three-way valve for the boiler, for warm floors, etc.

In addition, these plumbing devices are installed on the branched outlines of heating systems, where periodic flow redirection and a change in the state of the medium are required. Also, industry can not do without them.

Three-way valve: operating principle

In general, the principle of operation of this plumbing device can be described in several sentences. The return and supply piping is suitable for the two inputs of the tee. The required temperature mode is adjusted by means of regulatory mechanisms.

At the first pass, the coolant goes as expected. On the way back, it is already cooled, which immediately affects the overall temperature of the coolant. For a few seconds, the sensor responds to temperature changes and increases the hot water content in the system. The valve will be opened until the water in the heating system reaches an acceptable temperature.

The main advantage of a three-way valve is the principle of operation: this device is autonomous and unpretentious, as it works independently. Only the settings and the check of its operability during the installation are required.

Advantages

1. Easy to install.
2. Durability.
3. Functionality.
4. Practicality.
5. The ability to regulate the state of the system through simple actions.

disadvantages

1. The three-way valve on the heating system is not designed to work with a dirty environment.
2. The cost of this device is at a high level.

Mixing type

These plumbing devices have two main subspecies. Each of them performs its function: separating and mixing. In general, you can understand by name what the meaning of their work is.

The mixing type device consists of one output and two inputs. Its main function is to mix two streams, which is required to reduce the temperature of the coolant. This is achieved by changing the ratio of hot and cold water. This option is indispensable for the construction of a system of warm floors and is considered ideal equipment, as it is able to create the required temperature.

The temperature of the effluent is quite easily regulated. In order to obtain the necessary temperature at the output, it is necessary to know what temperature the incoming flows are, and to try to calculate the proportions of each one as accurately as possible.

If the installation and connection of the three-way valve are performed correctly, it can also serve as a flow divider.

Separation type

The separating type of the three-way valve is designed to divide into two parts of the main flow. For this purpose, the device has two outlet openings and one input one. This option is required for the distribution of coolant flows into two currents. If the system includes boilers, convectors, then without such a valve can not do. The separating type valve functions in a hot water supply system in order to separate the liquid. Quite often it is used in the bundles of air heaters.

Manual and electric three-way valve drive

By the way of control three-way valves are divided into devices equipped with manual and electric drives. The most popular is the manual version. Outwardly it looks like a classic ball valve, it has three branch pipes (outlets).

In private households, it is often possible to meet automatic systems with electrical control of the heat distribution process . For example, you can adjust the temperature for rooms and distribute the heat carrier, depending on the degree of remoteness of the room from the heating equipment (boiler). It can be combined with a system of warm floors. Cross-country vehicles are installed on heat pipes between buildings.

Like any other device, the three-way valve on the heating system is selected depending on the coolant pressure and the diameter of the supply pipe. Therefore, it must be applied in accordance with GOST. Failure to comply with the requirements of GOST is a gross violation.

Connectivity

Before you buy a three-way valve, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with its characteristics. These include:

1. The possibility of installing a servo (if the crane is installed to work in automatic mode).
2. Throughput of pipelines.
3. Diameter of the pipeline to which the valve is to be connected (2-4 cm).

When connecting a three-way valve, it is necessary to take into account the direction of the coolant. On the body of this device there is a mark in the form of an arrow. The valve can be installed both horizontally and vertically. The location of the device will in no way affect the performance of its direct function.

In the process of welding the valve, it is necessary to ensure the safety of the internal cavities from the ingress of welded soils and scale in them. At the junction of the valve and the pipeline, the temperature of the heating medium should not be more than 100 ° C.

In the heating system, the three-way valve is installed in front of the circulation pump.

Valves should be checked periodically for stability and performance. At the facilities their maintenance is carried out by the relevant organization in a certain order.

It is important that the operation of the device is carried out in strict accordance with the instruction.

Tips for choosing

Before you buy this plumbing equipment, you need to make sure that you understand the three-way valve, you understand its characteristics and determine the type of construction. Also many people pay attention to the producers. Indeed, can a manufacturer with a good reputation be a poor commodity or a product with a marriage. He's just not interested in this.

Features of the design and mechanism of the valve to choice do not significantly affect. The choice of a particular metal depends entirely on your preferences. Bronze and brass are expensive, but they do not lend themselves to corrosion and are more durable. Steel is cheaper and stronger, but everyone knows the consequences of its interaction with water. Cast iron is characterized by high weight and low cost.

The most important point is the choice of the type of drive. Valves with manual control are cheaper, but they have fewer functions. Three-way valves with an electric drive are more expensive and can break down, but of their many functions, most consumers are delighted.