Every application that requires a valve doesn’t always require a valve with the same function. The most common valve configuration is 2-way but what if you need to control the flow a third way? This is when locating a 3 way solenoid valve is necessary. If your searching for a 3-way solenoid valve you’ve probably noticed its very difficult to find. The fact is most valves fall into different categories due to your applications media, pressure and voltage requirements.
Lets take a look at different kinds of 3 Way Solenoid Valves
3 Way Exhaust Solenoid Valve
Most 3 way solenoid valves are configured with 3 ports that act as follows.
- One port in which the media enters the valve body.
- Second port that is refereed to as an exhaust port where the media leaves the valve while it is de-energized. This port as as a normally open valve would and closes when the valve is energized.
- Third port that stays closed until the valve is energized
3 Way Washer Solenoid Valve
Another common 3 way solenoid valve type is the ones used in applications such as washing machines. This type of valve has one inlet for media and 3 outlet ports. Each outlet port typical opens when energized. In a washing machine this functions in a way that water is connected to the inlet valve. During each cycle the individual coils are opened to let the water pass into the separate chambers for detergent, softener and bleach.
These are the two most common solenoid valves you will find in a 3 way configuration. All though some valves might have different style bodies or made from different materials these are how they most commonly function. When considering this type of valve you need to take into account the same things you would with any other valve.
Make sure you find a valve that fits your applications requirements of;
- Media
- Temperature
- Pressure
- Function
- Voltage
You can find more details of these options by looking around our site.