3 Way Valves
3-Way Valves | Electric Solenoid & Motorized Ball Valves
Shop 3-way electric solenoid valves and 3-way electric ball valves for automated fluid control. Available in multiple sizes and voltages, our valves are designed to control the flow of water, air, vacuum, and other low-viscosity fluids in commercial, industrial, OEM, and residential applications.
Whether your application requires diverting flow, selecting between two flow paths, or venting pressure through an exhaust port, our selection of 3-way valves provides dependable automatic flow control for a wide range of systems.
What Is a 3-Way Valve?
A 3-way valve has three ports that allow media to be diverted, mixed, or exhausted depending on the valve design.
ElectricSolenoidValves.com offers two primary types:
Although both control flow through three ports, they operate differently and are suited for different applications.
3-Way Solenoid Valve vs. 3-Way Electric Ball Valve
Selecting the right valve depends on how your system operates.
3-Way Solenoid Valves
3-way solenoid valves use an electrically energized solenoid to move an internal plunger that redirects flow between three ports.
These valves are commonly used for:
- Water
- Air
- Vacuum
- Low-viscosity fluids
- Automated control systems
They provide fast switching speeds and are commonly selected where quick on/off operation is required.
3-Way Electric Ball Valves
3-way electric ball valves use an electric actuator to rotate a ball with an internal L-port or T-port flow path.
They are commonly selected when applications require:
- Diverting flow
- Multiple outlet paths
- Longer duty cycles
- Quarter-turn valve operation
Electric ball valves provide reliable automated flow control with precise positioning.
How Does a 3-Way Solenoid Valve Work?
A 3-way solenoid valve contains:
- Inlet port
- Outlet port
- Exhaust port
When the valve changes position, the internal plunger redirects media between these ports.
The exhaust port allows trapped pressure or media to be vented, reducing pressure buildup within the system.
This additional port is what separates a 3-way valve from a standard 2-way solenoid valve.
Common Applications
3-way valves are commonly used in:
- HVAC systems
- Irrigation systems
- Food processing equipment
- Medical equipment
- Automotive systems
- Chemical processing
- Industrial automation
- Fluid transfer systems
- OEM equipment
These applications benefit from the ability to redirect or exhaust flow automatically.
Choosing the Right 3-Way Valve
Selecting the proper valve begins with understanding your system requirements.
Media Compatibility
Our 3-way valves are commonly used with:
- Water
- Air
- Vacuum
- Low-viscosity fluids
Always verify media compatibility on the individual product page before ordering.
Solenoid Valve or Ball Valve?
Choose a 3-way solenoid valve when your application requires:
- Fast response
- Compact size
- Frequent cycling
- Automatic venting through an exhaust port
Choose a 3-way electric ball valve when your application requires:
- Quarter-turn operation
- Diverting flow between multiple outlets
- Automated ball valve control
The correct valve depends on your application's operating requirements.
Pressure, Temperature & Flow
Before selecting any 3-way valve, review:
- Operating pressure
- Temperature range
- Flow coefficient (Cv)
- Media compatibility
- Port size
- Electrical requirements
Complete specifications are provided on each individual product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 2-way and 3-way valve?
A 2-way valve controls flow by opening or closing a single flow path.
A 3-way valve adds a third port that allows media to be diverted or exhausted, making it suitable for more complex fluid control applications.
What is the exhaust port used for?
The exhaust port allows trapped pressure or media to be released from the valve, helping prevent unwanted pressure buildup in the system.
What media can 3-way valves control?
Our 3-way valves are commonly used with:
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- Water
- Air
- Vacuum
- Other low-viscosity fluids
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Always verify compatibility before installation.
What is the difference between a 3-way solenoid valve and a 3-way electric ball valve?
A solenoid valve uses an electromagnetic coil to move an internal plunger, while an electric ball valve uses an electric actuator to rotate a ball inside the valve body.
Both control flow through three ports but operate using different mechanisms.
How do I choose the right 3-way valve?
Consider:
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- Valve type
- Port size
- Operating pressure
- Temperature
- Flow requirements
- Electrical voltage
- Media compatibility
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Review the specifications on the individual product page to ensure the valve matches your application.
Need Some Assistance?
Our valve experts are available to discuss your 3-way solenoid or 3-way ball valve options for your specific project needs. We are available during normal office hours via chat, email, or phone to answer any questions you may have.