Three way valve ESBE working principle. Esbe - three-way valve: instructions

Despite its simple design, the esbe three-way valve is one of those elements on which the life support of the entire house directly depends. Adaptations of this type are available for sale in several varieties.

general information

A three-way valve is a device for regulating pipeline networks with liquid working environment. To explain it in a popular way, after being included in the heating system, the device will perform the function of a well-known mixer tap, the task of which is to switch or mix flows.

Thanks to the ESBE three-way valve, the following results are achieved:

1. Redirecting streams from different networks.
2. The working fluid is brought to the required temperature by mixing cold and hot fluid.
3. Dynamic redirection makes it possible to obtain a stream of stable temperature.

Design features of the three-way valve ESBE

The three-way valve is adjusted using a rod or ball. In the first case, the adjusting element moves in the vertical direction, in the second - around its axis. This element moves in such a way that the flow of working fluid is not completely blocked: it is only mixed and redirected. The simplest example of such a device is a regular faucet. His strong point– simple design and low cost; weak – impossibility of obtaining a stable outlet temperature. Despite all their shortcomings, taps are widely used in underfloor heating systems.

If you introduce into the design of a conventional crane electric drive, then it will be possible to significantly increase its functionality: the device will be able to regulate the temperature of the liquid medium automatically. The task of simple balancing valves is to adjust the cross-section to the flow of the working flow.

The device works something like this:

1. When the handle is turned halfway, the two flows are evenly mixed, which is ensured by the equality of the inlet valves.
2. If you turn the handle all the way, the first valve will be pressed in, causing the liquid flow to be completely blocked.

For commercially available models, the knob turns may differ slightly, which does not in any way affect the principle of operation of the devices.

Main varieties

Three-way valves come in three types:

• Hydraulic.
• Electrically driven.
• Pneumatic.

Electrically driven devices (for example, the ESBE model) differ slightly in their operating principle. The electrical appendage acts here like a regular thermostat: thanks to it, the flows are not only mixed, but also maintained at the desired temperature. During a decrease or increase in temperature, the position of the shut-off valves is automatically changed. As a result, the flow cross-section increases or decreases. At the same time, the cross-section at the inlet of the cold flow changes, which makes it possible to impart a stable temperature to the outlet water. Wherein three-way esbe the valve is completely dispensed with without human control: the control of the equipment falls on automation.

The ESBE valve with electric drive and thermostat can be successfully used in heating systems oh and in hot water supply. Strictly speaking, such a valve can be equipped with any type of pipeline where it is necessary to mix two liquid streams and maintain a stable temperature. Even the highest quality and reliable models of a three-way valve with a thermostat have one common drawback for products of this type: the inlet points through which liquid flows are greatly narrowed. As a consequence, this provokes an increase in hydraulic resistance.

These types of taps are great for water pipes. ESBE valves are often equipped with heated floors, although a special connection diagram is used. Along with the modifications mentioned above, three-way thermostatic valves can be found on sale. Despite the apparent similarity of these devices, their functions differ in many ways. Thermostatic varieties use thermostats with a remote-type sensor. In addition, the operating principle here is also different.

Unlike standard models, thermostatic valves control flow at only one point. The other two inlets are in a permanently open position, with a stable cross-section. When purchasing such a design, it is important to test the second point for narrowness, otherwise difficulties in the operation of the device may arise due to high hydraulic resistance. If such a defect is detected, the problem can be solved by installing a mixing valve in an additional circuit.

ESBE tap connection principle

For the vast majority of commercially available three-way devices, one connection scheme is used. For example, you can consider installing an esbe three-way valve. It's better to start with plumbing system, where mixing taps are most often found. The valves in this case prevent the formation of reverse flow. The fact is that cold and hot flows have different pressures, which provokes differences. This may result in backflow. Systems with ESBE valves are completely safe in this regard.

In heating systems, only three areas can be equipped with devices of this type:

• Mixers for the "warm floor" system.
• Pipe entering the boiler. In this way, stabilization of the temperature of the coolant in the incoming pipeline is achieved.
• Outlet pipe to reduce the supply of heated coolant.

Mixing unit

The use of the esbe valve for heated floors has its own specifics. The location of the mixing unit is an additional circuit. Switching with the manifold-distributor is carried out through two points: this allows the coolant at the inlet to constantly circulate. The inlet flow is opened only when there is a need for additional heat.

The mixing unit is connected to the valve and thermostat. You need to understand that a thermostat for a water heated floor allows you to reduce heating costs. Considering the narrowness of all valves at point 2, the pump may encounter problems with insufficient flow. To solve the problem, it is necessary to install a second line that reduces the level of electricity consumption. But such a need does not always arise, because The cross-section of some three-way valves is quite large.

In a situation where the first line has insufficient flow power, the thermostat does not block the passage on the required scale.

To get out of this situation, two options are usually used:

1. The second line will narrow.
2. A balancing valve is installed.

The second method is considered more effective, because In this case, the flow is adjusted more accurately. There is another scheme for connecting an esbe three-way valve for a heated floor - connecting the pump to the second line: here a balancing valve is not needed. This allows you to equalize the temperature in the inlet and outlet flows.

Installation of a faucet with a thermostat can be carried out in single-circuit systems. Their simplest variation is a warm floor of a small area. In this case, using a large mixing unit is not very practical. A more expedient solution would be to connect a single-circuit heated floor. The installation of a three-way valve with a thermostat is carried out on the return pipe containing the cooled coolant. Thanks to the thermostat, shut-off valves are activated, which increases the cross-section. When the pipe heats up, the temperature sensor detects this and reduces the flow.

Application of valves for heating boilers

Three-way valves for heating boilers deserve special attention. They perform the task of preventing the cooled coolant from entering the pipeline entering the boiler. If this is not done, the pipes will begin to become covered with condensation, and a dangerous temperature difference will arise in the system. This is fraught with deformation of the connecting areas, the most harmless consequence of which will be the appearance of small leaks. If you do not react in time, the system may completely fail.

Particular responsibility should be taken when installing shut-off valves in the piping solid fuel boiler, during the operation of which significant temperature changes occur (read also: " "). The mixing valve allows you to protect the boiler equipment from the ingress of coolant with a temperature below +50 degrees. This reduces the temperature difference, which has a beneficial effect on the efficiency and durability of the system.

Experts recommend using mixing valves also in systems with plastic pipelines. Although polymer communications have a number of advantages, frequent excesses of operating temperature parameters have a destructive effect on them. According to standards, the most comfortable temperature range is in the range of +75-85 degrees. Valves protect plastic pipes from many negative consequences. The selection of a device model must be taken responsibly, taking into account the technical characteristics of the utility network.

Esbe products are quite popular today. is no exception. It is one of many elements that are included in residential buildings.

Need for use

This design, on the one hand, is quite simple, but on the other, it is designed to perform an extremely important task, being part of engineering networks. Everyone knows the rule that demand creates supply, which is why on the market today you can find many models that are represented by all kinds of manufacturers. However, valves produced by Esbe have excellent performance characteristics. A three-way valve of this type can be purchased at an affordable cost. This is confirmed by user reviews.

Design features

Today you can find a wide range of Esbe products. The three-way valve is no exception. This element has a regulating component, which is a ball or rod. The latter moves vertically, but as for the ball, its movement occurs around its axis. Due to the fact that the movements of the control element do not allow the flow of liquid to be blocked, distribution and mixing occurs. The most common and simple models are cranes.

Main advantage

Their main advantage is low cost and simplicity. However, if you need to adjust the Esbe three-way valve, then you should exclude the purchase simple devices, since they have a main disadvantage, expressed in the inability to stabilize the temperature regime at the outlet.

Carrying out installation work

Almost all of the described valves that are on the market are connected based on the same circuit. Mixing taps are most often used in water supply systems. Their main goal is to reduce the risk of backflow. Between the flows of cold and hot water A pressure drop will inevitably occur. It may cause backflow. If you install a valve, you will not encounter such a problem. If we are talking about a heating system, then such devices are used exclusively in three directions, namely to stabilize the temperature regime of the coolant flow in the incoming pipeline of boiler equipment, to reduce the water supply from high temperature from a heating device to a pipeline, as well as in the conditions of mixing units of systems such as underfloor heating.

Connection in the mixing unit

If you are interested in Esbe products, you can purchase a three-way valve at any relevant store. One has only to first consider how the faucet is used in a heated floor system. The application allows you to create an additional circuit in the system. It is connected to two points, which allows for constant circulation of water at the outlet. As for the input, the flow is provided only if there is a need to obtain additional heat. A valve with a thermostat is connected to the mixing unit. Due to the fact that all the valves are located at the point, they are narrowed, which can cause insufficient flow pumping equipment. To increase it, it is necessary to create an additional line, with which you can reduce the electricity consumption of the pump. During the installation process, it is worth remembering that a second line is not always required. A number of valve models have a fairly large bore. Three-way valve Esbe, the connection diagram of which can be developed based on the instructions presented in the article, may assume insufficient flow power on the first line. In this case, the thermostat is not able to open the passage of the required size. This issue can be easily resolved in two ways: the first involves narrowing the second line, while the other option is to mount it on it. The latter option is considered more productive, as it allows you to adjust the flow.

An alternative option for installation work

The Esbe three-way valve can be installed using another method. It does not involve the use balancing valve. The pump is connected to the second line, ultimately the temperature of the output and input streams is equalized. The faucet with thermostat is located in systems with one circuit. The simplest example of such systems is heated floors in small rooms. In this case, it is not always justified to create a mixing unit with large dimensions. It would be best to connect the underfloor heating system using one circuit. If you are thinking about how to connect an Esbe three-way valve with an electric drive, then it can be placed on the return line through which cooled water flows. In this case, the thermostat will cause the shut-off valves to move, the cross-section will be increased, and the flow will be open. As soon as the pipe is heated, the temperature sensor will detect this and reduce the flow.

Installation of a valve for a heating boiler

This issue, according to professionals, must be considered separately. The main task of installation is to prevent the entry of cold water flow into the incoming pipeline, which is connected to heating equipment. If this requirement is not taken into account, condensation will form on the pipes, and temperature changes will lead to deformation at the joint points. If we talk about the consequences of deformation, then in the best case you will encounter a small leak, while in the worst case the system will need to be completely changed. In order to avoid the need for repair of the Esbe three-way valve, it is important to connect the shut-off valves to the boiler, which is characterized by temperature changes during operation. If you install mixing valve, then you can ensure that water with a temperature below 50 degrees does not enter the equipment inlet. Temperature differences are significantly reduced, negative impact the cold is decreasing. Experts advise supplementing systems that use plastic pipelines with mixing valves. In this case, the task is to prevent high-temperature water from entering the pipeline. Despite the fact that polymers have many advantages, they do not cope well with frequent temperature changes that may be higher than operating temperatures.

When exposed to such conditions, the pipeline system soon fails. Experts advise choosing Esbe products. The three-way valve, installation instructions for which are presented in the article, has been manufactured by this company for a long time. If you use this element, you will be able to provide temperature readings ranging from 75 to 85 degrees, which are recommended by experts. Installing a valve can solve many problems, but the model must be selected in accordance with the characteristics of the network, and also have a sufficiently large passage.

Adjustment features

When purchasing Esbe products - a three-way valve, installation and adjustment instructions for which are presented in the article - you must remember that with the help of this device it is possible to mix cooled water from the return to the supply. For high-quality regulation, not only a three-way valve is installed in the system, but also four way valve, which must be present in the heating system. It is placed directly in front of the heated floor circuit. The handle allows you to open the bypass, while circulation pumps and equipment draw cooled coolant from the return, where it mixes with hot water. In order for the adjustment to be made as efficiently as possible, you need to understand what happens at certain positions of the handle. The latter can be set to the bypass shut-off position, in which case the hot coolant will flow into the pipe of the underfloor heating system. As for the mode in which the supply is shut off, water enters the tank and circulates in a small circle. The third position allows you to recharge the supply from the return system without blocking the full cycle of water passage throughout the entire circuit.

Conclusion

Specialists in Lately It is increasingly recommended to purchase Esbe brand products. The three-way valve, the instructions, the electrical diagram of which are presented in the article, is just an example of this. It can act as an indispensable element of the heating system and part of the boiler equipment, but it is important to choose the right model and install it in accordance with the technology.

Esbe valves are one of the most reliable and functional components used in various systems ah water supply, including domestic and main. It has a very wide model range, which includes: rotary vrg131, dn25, as well as other popular varieties.

Currently, a three-way rotary sample of such equipment can be installed in every home. In order to do this correctly, let's understand the intricacies of working with such equipment and the features of its use.

Contents of the article

Esbe valves - technical features of devices

Esbe valves are types of devices used to regulate liquid or gas when it is supplied from one pipe to another. The three-way valve type is distinguished by the presence of three connections, which allow you to effectively redirect flows in the system, especially in the case of mixing hot and cold water.

Adjusting the operation of valves of this type within one system can carry out servo drive. This device needs to be given a little more attention.

Servo. This is a separate element in the system that controls the position of the valves. The servo drive is usually the most affordable to purchase and easy to install, which is why it is most often used for.

By design features The servo drive can be different, most often the category of such devices includes. For example, this can be installed with vrg131 samples. Today they provide the highest quality and accuracy in system maintenance, which is why they are so popular among consumers.

In some devices, a servo drive, as well as Electrical adjustment is not used. In such cases, the following applies special devices as for adjusting the operation of equipment.

These varieties include, for example, the dn25 valve, which can be mounted in a faucet without a drive.

Review of Esbe three-way valve (video)

Purpose of Esbe valves

This type of product can be used in a wide range of systems, including heating systems, even centralized, hot and cold water supply, as well as air conditioning.

These types of valves are suitable for various systems, including those operating on oil products, gas, as well as eco-fuels, including solar energy or wind energy. You can install these types of equipment, for example, a three-way rotary valve vrg131, as for networks central water supply, and for home networks.

You can select a product for any tap. It is only important to choose the right type of product and install it according to the recommendations. It is also very important to adjust the servo drive or thermostatic regulator for the system to operate properly.

Then the model you choose will work without failures, regardless of the specified technical parameters.

The advantages of using this particular type of valve

Among the main advantages of installing Esbe products are:

1. Easy to install this type of component, the ability to install samples in virtually any system.
2. Wide operating temperature range, especially for models such as the vrg131 rotary valve.
3. Versatility in application - can be used in networks with different loads.
4. There is no need to maintain such samples when correct installation similar equipment.
5. Can be used with any Esbe drive that has the required technical characteristics.
6. The presence in some parts of the so-called Anti-scald functions– automatic shutdown of hot water supply if cold water stops flowing into the system.

Popular Esbe valve models

Currently, the following Esbe valve models are particularly popular on sale:

• VTA200 equipment is the best tap for all water supply systems. Applicable for systems without hot water recirculation, as well as HWCs with such a function. Do not require special maintenance;
• VTA270 is a model range suitable for installation in underfloor heating systems. They can be installed in systems where there is no risk of “burning”. Suitable for systems with fairly large area– up to 100 square meters;
• VTA310 is a piece of equipment, like the vrg131 rotary valve, suitable for all water supply systems that do not have special requirements for protection against burns. Designed for areas with a maximum coolant temperature of 95 degrees, withstand differential pressure of 0.3 MPa. This type the valves can be mounted in a faucet with any type of drive;
• VTA330/VTA360 is equipment that is installed in systems that do not have additional devices for temperature control. The peculiarities of this equipment are that it, like the 3-way faucet vrg131, reacts as sensitively as possible to changes in pressure in the system and allows you to maintain a stable water temperature even during pressure surges. This model comes with a special protective cover, unless, of course, the user has chosen a different package. Parts VTA330/VTA360 are distinguishable only by the direction of water flow;

• VTC300 – thermostatic mixer. The crane is used for installation with boilers with a power of up to 30 kW. It is used in cases where coolant at a sufficiently low temperature flows through the return pipe of the equipment. There is no need to install a servo drive for this model - without it it also functions quite normally. The equipment has several installation options and can be easily adapted to the requirements of the system you choose;
• DN25 is another particularly popular valve model. Represents . Also suitable for protecting boilers power up to 150 kW. The operating temperature of this sample is also 110 degrees. DN25 is completely unpretentious to installation conditions, its operating efficiency does not depend on the chosen installation position;
• model vrg131 - designed directly for use in hot water supply networks. The vrg is made from a specialized brass alloy, which significantly increases its service life. Can be installed manually. It is recommended to use a servo drive from the same manufacturer to control this three-way valve.

In the wide range of shut-off valves used for heating systems, there is an element that is used quite rarely. Its shape resembles a tee, although the functions it performs are completely different. We are talking about a three-way valve, the operating principle of which will be discussed in this article.

Operating principle of three-way valve

What is this device, why is it even needed?

How it works

The three-way valve is installed in those sections of the pipelines where it is necessary to divide the flow of circulating fluid into 2 circuits:

• with variable hydraulic mode;
• with constant.

In most cases, a constant flow is required by those for whom the liquid is supplied High Quality and in the indicated volumes. It is regulated in accordance with quality indicators. As for the variable flow, it is used for objects where quality indicators are not the main ones. There great importance has a quantity coefficient. Simply put, the coolant is supplied there according to the required quantity.

Note! Shut-off valves also include an analogue of the device described in the article - a two-way valve. How is it different? The fact is that the three-way option works on a completely different principle. The rod included in its design is unable to block the flow of liquid, which has constant hydraulic parameters.

The rod is open all the time, it is adjusted to a particular volume of liquid. Consequently, users will be able to get the volume they need, both in terms of quantity and quality. In general, this device is unable to stop the flow of fluid to a network in which the hydraulic flow is constant. In this case, it may well block a flow of variable type, due to which, in fact, the possibility of adjusting the flow/pressure arises.

And if you connect a pair of two-way devices, you can get one, but three-way. But it is necessary that both work in reverse, in other words, when one valve closes, the next one must open.

Video - Three-way valve operating principle

Valves classification

Without lengthy introductions, we note that the device can be of two types according to the principle of operation. It could be:

• dividing;
• mixing.

The features of each type of action are clear from their names. The mixing device consists of two outputs and an input. In other words, it is necessary to mix fluid flows, which may be required in order to reduce its temperature. By the way, this is the most best option in order to set the desired mode in the “warm floor”.

The procedure for adjusting the temperature regime is extremely simple. You just need to know about the current temperature indicators of the incoming liquid flows, accurately calculate the required proportions of each of them so as to obtain the required indicators at the output. By the way, this device, subject to proper installation and adjustment, can also function for flow separation.

But the separating valve divides one flow in two, therefore, it is equipped with one inlet and two outlets. This device is used primarily to separate the flow of hot water into DHW systems. Although quite often it is found in the piping of air heaters.

Externally, both options are almost identical. But if you look at their cross-sectional drawing, their main difference is immediately visible. The rod, which is installed in a mixing-type device, has one ball valve. It is located in the center and blocks the main passage.

As for separating devices, the stem has two such valves, which are installed at the outlets. They function according to the following principle: one of them is pressed against the saddle, closing the passage, and the other, in parallel, opens passage No. 2.

By control method modern models can be:

• electrical;
• manual.

In most cases, a manual device is used, which in appearance resembles an ordinary ball valve, but is equipped with three outlet pipes. And here electric models, having automatic control, are used mainly in private homes, namely to distribute heat. For example, the user can set the temperature regime by room, and the working fluid will be supplied in accordance with the distance of the room from heating device. As an option, you can combine it with a “warm floor”.

Video - Device in a boiler group

Three-way valves, as well as other devices, are determined in accordance with the pressure in the system and the diameter of the inlet. All this is regulated by GOST. And if the requirements of the latter are not respected, it will be regarded as gross violation, especially when it comes to the pressure indicator in the line.

Areas of application

The three-way valve, the operating principle of which was discussed above, has a fairly wide range of applications. Thus, its varieties, such as an electromagnetic device or a device with a thermal head, are often found in modern pipelines, where it is necessary to adjust the proportions when mixing two separated liquid streams, but without reducing power or volume.

As for household use, the most popular here is considered to be a thermostatic mixing device, with which, as noted above, you can regulate the temperature of the working fluid. This liquid can be supplied both to the “warm floor” pipeline and to heating radiators. And if the valve also has automatic control, then you can control the temperature in your home without any problems!

Note! The use of a three-way valve in a heating system to balance temperature changes is extremely beneficial not only in terms of comfort and convenience, but also in terms of cost savings.

The fact is that by regulating the temperature of the liquid at the “return” of the heating device, you can significantly reduce the volume of fuel consumed, and this will have a positive effect on the efficiency of the system itself. In some systems, a valve is simply necessary. For example, in a “warm floor” system, this device prevents overheating flooring above a given level of comfort, thereby relieving users of unpleasant sensations.

Regulating devices of this kind are also used in water supply systems in order to obtain a permanent flow at the required temperature. The simplest example is an ordinary mixer, in which you can make water hotter/cooler by opening/closing a cold tap.

Adjusting the flow of working fluid. What to look for when purchasing?

Manual adjustment is carried out using the usual ball valve. Visually it is very similar to a simple valve, but has an additional output. Fittings of this kind are used for forced manual control.

As for automatic adjustment, then a special three-way valve is used here, equipped with an electromechanical device to change the position of the rod. It should be connected to a thermostat in order to be able to regulate the temperature in the room.

Remember that when purchasing a valve, it is imperative to take into account technical specifications devices, which include the following.

• Diameter of connection to the heating main. Often this indicator varies from 2 to 4 centimeters, although much depends on the characteristics of the system itself. If the device suitable diameter If you couldn’t find it, you’ll have to use special adapters.
• The possibility of installing a servo drive on a three-way valve, the operating principle is discussed at the beginning of the article. Thanks to this, the device will be able to work automatically. This moment is very important if the device is selected for operation in " warm floors» water type.
• Finally this throughput pipeline. This concept refers to the volume of liquid that can pass through it in a certain time.

Popular manufacturers

There are many manufacturers of three-way valves on the domestic market. The choice of one model or another depends, first of all, on:

• type of mechanism (and let us remember, it can be mechanical or electrical);
• areas of use (DHW, cold water, “warm floor”, heating).

The most popular device is rightfully considered Esbe- a Swedish valve from a company that has been around for over a hundred years. This is a reliable, high-quality and durable product that has proven itself in many areas. A combination of European quality and modern technology.

Another popular model is American Honeywell- a true brainchild high technology. Simple operation, convenience and comfort, compactness and reliability - these are distinctive features these valves.

Finally, relatively “young” but promising devices are valves from the Valtec line - the result of joint cooperation between engineers from Italy and Russia. All products are of high quality and are sold with a seven-year warranty. They differ in that they have a very affordable price.

How to install a mixing valve yourself

This installation scheme is used mainly in boiler rooms of those heating systems that are connected to a hydraulic separator or to a free-flow collector. And the pump located in circuit No. 2 ensures the required circulation of the working fluid.

Note! If the three-way valve will be connected directly to a bypass heat source connected to port B, then it will be necessary to install a valve with a hydraulic resistance equal to the same resistance of this source.

If this is not done, then the flow of working fluid will be segment A-B will oscillate according to the movement of the rod. Note also that this scheme installation provides for the possible cessation of liquid circulation through the source if the installation was carried out without circulation pump or a hydraulic separator in the main circuit.

It is not advisable to connect the valve to heating networks or a pressure manifold in the absence of devices that throttle excessive pressure. Otherwise, the fluid consumption per section A-B will fluctuate, and significantly.

If overheating of the return is allowed, excessive pressure is eliminated by means of a jumper installed parallel to the valve connection in the circuit.

How to install a dividing valve with your own hands

Providing quantitative regulation by changing fluid flow rates is the main function performed by such a three-way valve. Its operating principle is extremely simple and was discussed above. It is used where it is possible to bypass liquid to the “return”, but stopping circulation, on the contrary, is not allowed.

Note! This connection scheme has gained wide popularity in water and air heating units that are connected from individual boiler houses.

In order to link hydraulic circuits, it is necessary that the consumer's pressure losses be equal to the losses at the balancer valve in the bypass. The diagram presented here is intended for installation on those pipelines in which there is excessive pressure. In this case, the liquid moves due to the strong pressure generated by a circulation pump.

Video - Three-way valve and its operating principle