Tips for Selecting 3-Way Control Valves

Three-way control valves are designed to give operators more flexible control over the flow and pressure of a fluid in a pipeline. Each 3-way valve features an actuator that an operator—or an automated system—can move to send the valve plug up or down and, through that mechanism, open and close the different valve ports.

In addition to this basic function, operators can use 3-way control valves to precisely adjust the temperature and composition of the process fluid. Compared to 2-way control valves, 3-way valves are more cost-effective for mixing and diverting applications. Here are some tips for choosing the best 3-way control valve for your system.

Size

First, it's important to choose the right valve size. If the 3-way valve is too small, it won't be able to handle the volume of fluid. This will choke and disrupt the flow, resulting in higher pumping costs. However, if the valve is oversized, this can cause excessive valve wear over time. The valve may also have difficulties accurately controlling flow and exhibit unpredictable oscillations. The ports of an oversized valve will close too late to accurately control the composition of the mixed fluid.

Flow Type

After choosing the right size valve, choose the right style of 3-way valve. Mixing three-way valves have two separate inlets (Port A and Port B) and a single outlet (Port AB) that blends the mixed fluid. Diverting three-way valves, on the other hand, have a single inlet port (Port AB) and two outlet ports (Port A and Port B), through which fluids leave the valve “divert or bypass” to either outlet port.

Direction of Flow

Your chosen 3-way directional control valve must have connection types that are compatible with your system’s existing pipelines. Choose a valve with a connection method that simplifies maintenance of the valve, actuators, and the pipeline itself. In general, 3-way flow control valves with flanged connections are easier to maintain, repair, and replace than welded connections. With Baelz 3-way valves, you have many options to choose from. Also, Baelz 3-way valves allow for bi-directional flow. We use one style of valve to achieve either mixing or diverting service. Many other manufactures must use a separate valve design for mixing or diverting service.

Type of Media

Depending on the type of media or fluid running through your pipe system, you will need to consider different valve materials and designs. Both the physical and chemical characteristics of the media matter, including the temperature, pH, particle or solids size, and pressure. Also, consider the certification standards and statutory regulations of the valve’s material. Both the valve and its sealing components will need to be compatible with the media to minimize chemical reactions or breakage for long service life of the valve.

Application

Depending on your intended application, there are certain best practices you must follow. Keep these broad types of applications and recommended practices in mind as you make your selection:

Mixing Fluid From Different Sources: This is a common application for mixing-type 3-way valves. In beverage production, for example, facilities might use a mixing 3-way valve as the main combination point of pure water and juice concentrate.
Simultaneous Diverting: While diverting one flow to two destinations simultaneously, the source for the inlet port's fluid should be kept at higher pressures than the two outlets to ensure a consistent, balanced flow.
Changing Flow Destination Intermittently: Operators can use 3-way control valves to deposit fluid from one location to two separate destinations as needed.

Contact Baelz NA for 3-Way Flow Control Valves

At Baelz NA, we specialize in developing dynamic, high-performance valves that consistently and accurately control fluid flow. Our inventory of 3-way control valves serves a wide range of applications, fluid and media types, and industrial settings. We're committed to providing high-quality products that lengthen your system's service life, reduce complexities and downtime, and optimize operational efficiency.