What is a pilot operated valve?

What is a pilot operated valve?

A pilot operated valve is a type of valve that uses a smaller valve, called a pilot valve, to control the larger valve. The pilot valve is connected to a source of compressed air or other fluid, and when it opens or closes, it triggers the larger valve to do the same. Pilot operated valves are commonly used in fluid control systems, such as in hydraulic or pneumatic systems, where they can be used to control the flow of fluid or gas through a system. They are often used in applications where precise control is required, such as in industrial machinery or manufacturing processes.

What is a 3-way valve?

A 3-way valve is a type of valve that has three ports or openings. It is used to control the flow of fluid or gas through a system by connecting or disconnecting different ports. A typical 3-way valve consists of a valve body, an actuator, and a ball or plug that rotates to control the flow of fluid.

There are two main types of 3-way valves: mixing and diverting. A mixing valve is used to blend two streams of fluid together, while a diverting valve is used to direct the flow of fluid to one of two different ports.

3-way valves are commonly used in HVAC systems, where they can be used to control the temperature of a room by mixing hot and cold water. They are also used in industrial processes, such as in chemical processing, where they can be used to control the flow of different liquids or gases.

What is a relieving function?

A relieving function is a feature found in some valves that allows them to relieve excess pressure in a system by opening a valve and allowing fluid or gas to escape. When a valve is relieving, it opens a path for fluid or gas to flow out of a system, reducing the pressure inside the system. This can be important for safety reasons, as it helps prevent damage to equipment or injury to personnel.

For example, pressure relief valves are commonly used in steam boilers to prevent the pressure from rising too high and causing an explosion. If the pressure inside the boiler exceeds a certain level, the pressure relief valve will open, allowing steam to escape and reducing the pressure inside the boiler.

Relieving functions can also be found in other types of valves, such as relief valves, safety valves, and pressure reducing valves. These valves are designed to protect equipment and personnel from the dangers of high pressure or pressure surges in a system.