Three-way valve with servo drive for domestic hot water. ESBE valves and actuators ESBE three-way actuator

Three-way mixing valves (taps, valves) and actuators ESBE

Esbe three-way valves are usually used as mixing valves, but can be used as switching or separating valves. It is necessary to ensure that the nominal pressure, pressure drop and leakage are within permissible limits. This information given for each valve.
Four-way valves are usually used when a high return coolant temperature is required (usually for solid fuel boilers). In systems with two heat sources or a storage tank, valves will help prioritize the use of an inexpensive heat source while maintaining good temperature separation in the storage tank.
Operating principle of Esbe 3-way valves VRG130. The required temperature in the system is achieved by adding required quantities water coming from the return pipe supplied to the boiler.

Technical characteristics of three-way valves Esbe VRG131, internal thread

vendor code	DN	Kvs	Compound	A mm	B mm	C mm	D mm	E mm	Weight kg
11600100	15	0,4	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600200	15	0,63	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600300	15	1	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600400	15	1,6	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600500	15	2,5	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600600	15	4	Rp 1/2"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11600700	20	2,5	Rp 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11600800	20	4	Rp 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11600900	20	6,3	Rp 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11601000	25	6,3	Rp 1"	41	82	34	52	41	0,7
11601100	25	10	Rp 1"	41	82	34	52	41	0,7
11601200	32	16	Rp 1 1/4"	47	94	37	55	47	0,95
11603400	40	25	Rp 1 1/2"	53	106	44	60	53	1,68
11603600	50	40	Rp 2"	60	120	46	64	60	2,3

Technical characteristics of three-way valves Esbe VRG132, external thread

vendor code	DN	Kvs	Compound	A mm	B mm	C mm	D mm	E mm	Weight kg
11601500	15	0,4	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11601600	15	0,63	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11601700	15	1	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11601800	15	1,6	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11601900	15	2,5	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11602000	15	4	G 3/4"	36	72	32	50	36	0,4
11602100	20	2,5	G 1"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11602200	20	4	G 1"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11602300	20	6,3	G 1"	36	72	32	50	36	0,43
11602400	25	6,3	G 1 1/4"	41	82	34	52	41	0,7
11602500	25	10	G 1 1/4"	41	82	34	52	41	0,7
11602600	32	16	G 1 1/2"	47	94	37	55	47	0,95
11603500	40	25	G 2"	53	106	44	60	53	1,69
11603700	50	40	G 2 1/4"	60	120	46	64	60	2,3

How does Esbe three way valve work?

The required temperature in the heating system is ensured by proportionally adding colder coolant to the hotter coolant flow from the boiler.

How does a four way valve work?

Valves of this type have a double mixing function, that is, the hotter coolant is mixed with the colder coolant supplied to the boiler. This allows you to increase the temperature of the coolant in the return (returning to the boiler) and reduce the risk of low-temperature corrosion, which significantly extends the operating time of the boiler.

Installation examples and hydraulic characteristics of Esbe mixing valves of the VRG and 3F series

Esbe VRG

Esbe 3F

Operating principle of Esbe 3, 4, 5 way and bivalent mixing valves

Advantages of Esbe mixing valves:

Easy to install drives.
Compact size, lightness and ease of installation - installation requires a minimum of tools.
Minimum dimensions of mixing valves, facilitating installation in cramped conditions.
Reliable installation of valve with internal thread. The key edges are wider and have two edges instead of six. This provides a better grip and less risk of the pipe wrench or box wrench slipping.
More flexible cable connection. The drives are supplied complete with a connecting cable and an additional cable contact. The advantage is that you can run a separate cable, for example, directly to circulation pump without connecting through a central controller.
High control accuracy.
Minimum delay and high precision of the entire cycle, from full closing to full opening of the valve, the valves provide the ability to use full angle turn. This adjustment is as close to ideal as possible and provides increased comfort and reduced energy consumption.
Esbe valves are renowned for their minimal internal leakage and have been awarded the " Best product plumbing equipment 2003".
The leakage rate is reduced from 0.1 to 0.05%. And this is achieved at double pressure, i.e. at 100 kPa (1.0 bar). A valve that provides tighter closure is difficult to find and buy on the rotary valve market.
Easy and convenient regulation, high performance
Reliable and have long term services

What is Kvs? Each mixing valve has a Kvs characteristic ( throughput m3/h at a pressure loss of 1 bar). The Kvs parameter helps determine which valve is needed for your heating system. You can determine the Kvs of the Esbe valve using the graph below.

Esbe mixing valve size selection

Selection of Esbe mixing valves of the VRG and VRB series for floor or radiator system heating.
We start from the thermal power of the boiler in kW (for example, 25 kW). We move vertically to the selected temperature mode t (for example, 15°C). Next, we move horizontally to the shaded area (pressure drop range 3-15 kPa) and select a lower value of the Kvs coefficient (for example, 4.0).
In this case, we select the desired type of valve with a coefficient Kvs = 4.0

The Kvs value is taken for flow in one direction only
For 4-way valves, double the pressure drop P shown in the graph is valid.

Materials used, coolant requirements.

The VRG, VRB and 5MG series valves are manufactured from a special brass alloy (DZR Dezincification Resistant Brass, CW 602N), offering advantages that cannot be achieved in designs combining cast iron and brass. This allows them to be used for water supply systems with sanitary hot water.
Selective corrosion of brass(zinc is released from ordinary brass, leaving a brittle, porous copper mass) is the most dangerous looking corrosion, leading to a rapid reduction in service life and reduced functionality. Coating the inner surface of valves and valves with a layer DZR reduces the likelihood of contaminants and sediment sticking to the valves, which ensures reduced wear and more clean water. The alloy also contains less lead than many other products. and is especially suitable for the installation of cold water supply systems.
All other ESBE valves can only be used in closed systems ah with water that does not contain dissolved oxygen.
To protect against freezing, it is allowed to use a coolant containing glycol and additives that neutralize dissolved oxygen, with a concentration of up to a maximum of 50%. When glycol is added to water, its viscosity increases and its heat capacity changes, so this must be taken into account when choosing a valve. If the percentage of glycol is 30-50%, then in this case it is necessary to select another valve with a higher Kv coefficient by one level. Lower glycol content does not affect the valve's operation.

Specialists of the company "Thermogorod" Moscow will help you choose, buy, and install ESBE fittings, will find an acceptable solution at a price. Ask any questions you are interested in, a telephone consultation is absolutely free, or use the form "Feedback"
You will be satisfied by cooperating with us!

A three-way valve in a water supply or heating system is responsible for mixing or separating liquids different temperatures, and also for obtaining the required temperature at the liquid outlet (adjusting the temperature of the coolant using a servo drive).

Design Features

The device body contains two inlets and one outlet for the flow of liquids and a control element, which can be different designs(for example, a rotary ball or a running rod), also a place for a servo drive.

Typically, the valve is not designed to completely shut off the output liquid flow, but is only capable of controlling the mixing proportions of liquids and the temperature in the system. The instructions do not suggest, but functionally, it is quite possible to shut off the liquid supply.

A three-way valve of a certain type, which performs separation functions, may have a rotary servo drive to redirect the flow to different pipes(then it is called “constipated”).

In this case, gradual or smooth mixing of liquids with temperature control does not occur, and the swivel mechanism consists of a ball (like a Bugatti ball valve).

There are several varieties of it, depending on the type of drive mechanism, performing the same functions:

Hydraulic rotary drive;
Pneumatic drive;
Electric servo drive.

Yes, three A new Esbe valve with a servo drive will require the sample itself and a compatible drive manufactured by the same company.

Types and differences

Esbe has been in business for over a hundred years and specializes in temperature control products for hydraulic systems in small buildings.

It produces a valve and rotary servo actuator for cooling or heating systems, also working in conjunction with indoor and outdoor temperature sensors in the system. The operating principle of the Esbe three-way valve is similar to the above options.

The company produces several model series of three-way valves, including a mixing valve:

Rotary valves (model series: VRG130, VRG330, 3F, H, VRH130, HG);
Linear valves (series models: VLF300, VLF200, VLE132);
Thermostatic mixing valve (series models: VTA and VTS).

Rotary valves

Valves of the VRG130 series are used for hot/cold water supply systems. This model range, like subsequent ones, has various options(for example, a three-way valve from Esbe VRG 131 also belongs to this series and has a connection for a servo drive).

They are compact brass alloy mixing models designed to minimize leakage and with a manual adjustment dial. The instructions indicate that they are also compatible with systems automatic control and Esbe controllers that allow you to automate the operation of valves.

Esbe three-way valve of this model series - supplied with standard sizes DN 15-50, pressure class - PN 10, model options include varieties with internal (three-way mixing valve type Esbe model VRG131 with connection to an actuator), external thread(model VRG132), with union nut or compression fittings.

Trekhodo The second Esbe mixing valve of the VRG330 series has similar qualities to the previously described VRG131 series (DN 20-50, PN 10), but is designed specifically to work with large flows (kvs difference between inputs is 60 percent).

Can also be equipped with compatible controllers and automatic control. Available with three types of connection: internal thread, external thread, rotating nut.

According to Esbe specifications, the 3F series rotary mixing valves are designed for use in heating and cooling systems.

Esbe controllers and automatic control systems can also be used with them (the Esbe three-way valve model VRG131 with electric drive is not immediately supplied, which allows you to choose the most convenient option company products).

For ease of installation, the Esbe 3F three-way valve is marked with an adjustment scale on both sides. The valve body is made of cast iron, the model is also supplied with an adapter for a PN 6 flanged pipe, model sizes are DN25-150.

The mixing valve from Esbe series H (DN25-40) and HG (DN25) is designed for installation in limited space.

This three-way control valve from Esbe is used only for heating systems and is specified for work with the boiler group (made of cast iron, special “H”-shaped body). It also has a reasonable price.

As the main type of connection, both internal thread and its mixed type. Compatible with Esbe controllers and drives like VRG131.

Models of the VRH130 series are also made in the “H”-shaped version, but made of brass with a pressure class of PN 10. This model more versatile than the previous model and can also be used in water supply systems, available in different body widths.

Linear valves

The VLF300 series is a three-way linear mixing unit with standard sizes DN 15-50.

The the lineup vypo It is made of nodular cast iron and can be used with a working fluid such as cold/hot water or containing antifreeze components (glycol, for example).

In the latter case, the sample must be equipped with a rod heater. It is equipped with a flange for a PN 6 pipe. Models similar to those previously indicated, VLF200 dn25, are distinguished by a higher operating pressure of up to 16 bar (versus 6 bar for the previously indicated model range).

Models VLE132 – made of bronze with standard sizes DN 15-50. These are linear motorized valves, which, like the previously mentioned similar models, can use water with glycol as working fluids (connection - PN16 external thread), unlike the VRG131 series. Its price ranges from 140 to 350 euros.

All linear three-way valves listed are compatible with the Esbe controller and actuator.

Thermostatic mixing valve

VTS520/550 - the instructions indicate that three-way valves are designed to work with hot water supply systems that are connected to a solar heating system. Its price starts from 150 euros.

A special feature of this model range is that the Esbe three-way thermostatic valve comes with specialized protection against burns, since the liquid circulating in the system is sufficiently high temperature.

Esbe's three-way thermostatic mixing valve with "anti-scald" features a sensor that automatically turns off the servomotor for flow hot water, If cold water not served.

The coolant with which these models work is water (including drinking water), the coolant of closed systems is water with non-freezing components. Pressure class - PN 10, the body is made of brass, resistant to corrosion, for example, the VRG131 valve is not suitable for such a system.

VTA330/530 - Esbe thermostatic mixing valve of this series is designed for use in domestic hot water systems, as well as in taps or showers where no other means of temperature control is provided (VTA330), or in high-flow domestic hot water systems (VTA530). Its price is around 150 euros.

Also equipped with a protection system you from burns. Pressure class PN 10 (material – brass, resistant to corrosion), available with external threaded connection, fittings or adapters.

VTA360/560 is a series similar to the previous one in design, but equipped with a large number of fittings and connections. The instructions assume that the drive of the Esbe three-way device of this series must also be compatible with the specifications specified by the company.

Representatives of the VTA320/520 series can be used both in conditions similar to the operating modes of previous model series, and in systems where other temperature control systems are present.

These valves are recommended for use in hot water circulation (HWC) or underfloor heating systems. Also equipped with “scald protection”. VTA370/570 – models designed for use in a “warm floor” system, have a high throughput.

VTA310 is a sample supplied with an adjustment knob, without a burn protection system. It is used in domestic water supply systems, including closed-circuit hot water supply (HWC) systems. Its price starts from 50 euros.

Valve Design Overview (video)

Installation features and prices

When installing a three-way mixing valve, choose various options, instructions and algorithms for installation. As a rule, the part is not installed directly to the heat source, since the system uses a gravity manifold or “hydraulic arrow”.

In the version for heating, the simplified instructions involve supplying coolant from the boiler to the valve, from there the coolant is supplied to the heating system through a pump.

The liquid that has passed through the heating system and cooled is sent to the boiler for heating, but also to the mixing valve, which ensures temperature control of the supplied substance.

The instructions for the Esbe three-way valve usually include a description of connecting the valve to the system, which may vary depending on the model range.

A three-way valve cw602n Esbe (the brand of brass is indicated here) of the VRG130 model series (namely VRG131 ½) costs an average of $170 (if purchased complete with an actuator).

The price of a three-way valve from Esbe linear VLA330, depending on the configuration, is $150 (not equipped with an electric drive).

Price for three-way thermostatic Esbe valve(VTA 320) can be purchased for $70 or more.

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 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.

Depending on the 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. They give today 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, special devices are used to regulate 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:

Easy to install this type of component, the ability to install samples in virtually any system.
Wide operating temperature range, especially for models such as rotary valve vrg131.
Versatility in application - can be used in networks with different loads.
There is no need to maintain such samples if such equipment is installed correctly.
Can be used with any Esbe drive that has the required technical characteristics.
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 – best faucet 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 an equipment, like the vrg131 rotary tap, 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.

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. Devices of this type are available for sale in several varieties.

general information

A three-way valve is a device for adjusting pipeline networks with liquid working medium. 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:

Redirecting streams from different networks.
The working fluid is brought to the required temperature by mixing cold and hot fluid.
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:

When the handle is turned halfway, the two flows are evenly mixed, which is ensured by the equality of the inlet valves.
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. In this case, the three-way 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 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 entrances are 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 diagram 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:

The second line will narrow.
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 level temperature regime in the input and output stream.

Installation of a faucet with a thermostat can be carried out in single-circuit systems. Their simplest variation is heated floors 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 boiler equipment from 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 utility network.

The ESBE type three-way valve is just one of the elements of the life support systems of a residential building. On the one hand, this is a simple design. On the other hand, it performs an important task in engineering networks. Demand creates supply. There are many models on the market presented by different manufacturers. Three-way valves produced under the ESBE brand have good performance characteristics.

Some useful knowledge

Three way rotary valve ESBE

A three-way valve is a control device in pipeline systems with a liquid working medium. Speaking in simple language, built into the design of the heating network, it will act like a well-known faucet that switches or mixes flows. Installing the valve allows you to solve a number of practical problems:

Redirection of flows coming from different pipelines.
Achievement desired temperature working fluid by mixing hot and cold flow.
Achieving a jet with a constant temperature through dynamic redirection.

Difficult? Only at first glance. In order to understand the principle of operation of the device, let's consider its design features.

Design

A three-way mixing valve has a control element, which is a rod or ball. The rod moves vertically, the ball moves around its axis. Since the movement of the control element does not completely block the flow of the working fluid, it is mixed and redistributed. The simplest models are a regular faucet. Their main advantage is low cost and design simplicity. The disadvantage is the impossibility of stabilizing the outlet temperature. Despite the disadvantages, the faucet can be installed in underfloor heating systems. Now let's imagine a faucet with an electric drive. This design is already more functional, since it is able to regulate the temperature automatically. A simple valve is a balancing valve. Its main function is to adjust the cross section for the passage of the work flow. Conventionally, the principle of its operation can be described as follows:

The handle is turned 50% - uniform mixing of the two flows, since the inlet valves will be equal.
The handle is turned 100% - the first valve is fully pressed and blocks the movement of liquid flow.

Modifications on the market may have different handle rotations, but the principle of their operation remains the same. The tap and its position are manually adjusted, thereby ensuring a balance between the two flows.

Kinds

There are several types of such devices:

With hydraulic drive.
With pneumatic drive.
Electrically driven.

A motorized three-way valve, such as the ESBE model, will have a slightly different operating principle. The electric drive performs the function of a conventional thermostat, which allows you not only to mix flows, but to maintain a given temperature. When the temperature decreases/increases, the drive automatically changes the position of the shut-off valves, increasing or decreasing the cross-section of the hot water flow. At the same time, the cross section at the point of inlet of the cold flow also changes. The result is water with a constant temperature. The ESBE crane does not require any human intervention. Its operation is regulated automatically.

Operating principle valve

Equipped with electric actuators and thermostats, ESBE valves are equally suitable for use in heating and hot water systems. In principle, the valve can be installed in any pipeline where it is necessary to mix two liquid streams with constant temperature maintenance. No matter how high-quality and reliable a three-way valve with a thermostat is, it will have one drawback that is characteristic of absolutely all devices of this type.

This disadvantage is the strong narrowing of the entrance points. The narrowed cross-section of the inlet point, in turn, increases hydraulic resistance.

Such a faucet will work well in water supply systems. ESBE valves are suitable for installation in underfloor heating systems, but require a special connection diagram. In addition to the designs described above, three-way thermostatic valves are available on the market. These devices are often confused with each other, but they are still completely different. Thermostatic models have a thermostat with a remote sensor, but they differ not only in this element, but also in the principle of operation. Unlike conventional models, in thermostatic taps the flow is regulated at only one point, the remaining two are open and their cross-section does not change. When choosing such a design, you need to check whether there is any narrowing at point 2, otherwise hydraulic resistance will lead to difficulties in the operation of the device. It may be necessary to install a mixing valve in an alternative ring to minimize the problem.

Connection diagrams

Three-way valve - connection diagram

Almost all three-way valves on the market are connected according to the same circuit. Let's look at it using ESBE cranes as an example. Let's start with water supply systems, since this is where the mixer tap is used most often. The main purpose for which the valve is installed is to reduce the risk of backflow.. Between the two streams - cold and hot water - there will inevitably be a pressure difference. It can lead to backflow. When installing ESBE valves, such incidents rarely occur. In heating systems, ESBE valves are used in only three directions:

In mixing units of “warm floor” systems.
To stabilize the temperature of the liquid flow in the incoming boiler pipeline.
To reduce the supply of high-temperature coolant from the boiler to the pipeline.

Valve in the mixing unit

Let's look at how the ESBE tap is used in underfloor heating systems. The mixing unit creates an additional circuit in the system. It is connected to the distribution manifold at two points, which ensures constant circulation of the liquid at the outlet. At the inlet, flow is only provided if additional heat is required. A valve with a thermostat is connected to the mixing unit. Since at point 2 all valves, including ESBE, are narrowed, insufficient pump flow may be observed. To increase it, a second line is created to reduce energy consumption by pumping equipment. A second line is not always required. Some models of three-way valves have sufficient passage.

Diagram of a heated floor with a three-way valve

If there is insufficient flow power on the first line, the thermostat will not be able to open the passage to the required amount . The problem is easily solved in two ways: by narrowing the second line or installing it on balancing valve. The second method is more productive. It allows you to fine-tune the flow. You can connect a three-way valve according to another scheme that does not require the installation of a balancing valve. For this pump equipment connects to the second line. As a result, the temperature of the inlet and outlet streams is compared. A faucet with a thermostat can be installed in systems with one circuit. The simplest example of such systems is heated floors in small spaces. Creating a mixing unit here , with its considerable dimensions , is not always justified. It is better to connect a heated floor with one circuit. A three-way valve with a thermostat is installed on the return line, through which the cooled coolant flows. In this case, the thermostat will move the shut-off valves, increasing the cross-section and opening the flow. After heating the pipe, the temperature sensor reads the data and reduces the flow.

For heating boilers

Three-way valves for heating boilers should be considered separately. The main task of their installation is to prevent cold coolant flow into the incoming pipeline connected to the boiler. Otherwise, condensation will begin to form on the pipes, and temperature changes in the system will lead to its deformation at the joints. There is no need to talk about the consequences of such deformations. IN best case scenario a small leak forms, in the worst case, the system will have to be completely changed.

Three-way valve in a heating system

It is especially important to connect shut-off valves to solid fuel boilers, characterized by significant temperature changes during operation. Connecting a mixing valve makes it possible to ensure that liquid with a temperature below 50 degrees does not enter the inlet of the boiler equipment. As a result, the temperature difference decreases, negative impact cold with all the ensuing consequences is reduced. It is recommended to install mixing valves in systems with plastic piping. The goal here is to prevent high temperature coolant from entering the pipeline. Despite all the advantages of polymers, they do not withstand frequent increases in temperatures above operating parameters. Under such operating conditions, the pipeline quickly collapses. Temperatures recommended by experts range from 75 to 85 degrees. Installing valves can solve many problems, but the model must be selected exactly according to technical characteristics utility network, and must have sufficient passage.

Conclusion

The simplest shut-off valves - three-way mixing valves - important element engineering communications. Modern models created at the intersection of old traditions and modern technologies, allowed us to achieve excellent results their use for a variety of purposes.