In industrial automation systems, many applications require more than a simple “open or close.” Media often needs to be diverted between different pipelines, switched from one outlet to another, or combined from multiple inlets. This is exactly where a pneumatic three-way seat valve shows its strength. Represented by the TV series, this type of valve differs fundamentally from a conventional globe valve and provides far greater flexibility in fluid control.

Basic Concept of a Pneumatic Three-Way Seat Valve

A pneumatic three-way seat valve is essentially a three-port valve driven by a pneumatic actuator. Unlike a standard globe valve with only one inlet and one outlet, a three-way seat valve has three ports, allowing different flow path configurations depending on the internal valve design.

The TV series follows this principle by using compressed air as the control force. The actuator moves the valve plug between defined positions, enabling the fluid to switch from one flow path to another.

In simple terms, a globe valve answers the question “on or off,” while a pneumatic three-way seat valve answers “where should the flow go.”

Key Differences from a Conventional Globe Valve

The structure of a conventional globe valve limits it to controlling a single flow path. It is ideal for isolation and basic shut-off tasks, but it cannot manage flow diversion.

The defining advantage of the TV series pneumatic three-way seat valve lies in its configurable flow functions.

Depending on the application, the valve can:

•Switch one medium between two pipelines

•Selectively combine two media into a single outlet

•Alternate between production flow and cleaning flow

This capability makes the three-way seat valve far more suitable for systems that require frequent process switching.

Structural Features of the TV Series

The TV series adopts a classic seat valve structure. The valve plug moves linearly against the valve seat and is actuated pneumatically, resulting in several practical advantages:

① Fast response: Pneumatic actuation ensures stable and rapid switching

② Reliable sealing performance: Seat valve design performs well under medium and low pressures

③ Multiple flow configurations: Flow paths can be selected to match process requirements

④ Easy maintenance: A clear structure supports long-term automated operation

For equipment manufacturers, this design helps simplify system layouts while maintaining reliable control.

Pneumatic Three-Way Seat Valve vs Pneumatic Three-Way Ball Valve

During valve selection, engineers often compare a pneumatic three-way seat valve with a pneumatic three-way ball valve. Although both provide three ports, their strengths differ.

To better understand how a pneumatic three-way seat valve differs from other solutions, the table below compares it with a pneumatic three-way ball valve.

This structural flexibility is why the TV series is often selected for systems that require more than simple on/off control.

Typical Applications

Thanks to its flexible flow path control, the pneumatic three-way seat valve is widely used in:

◆ Process switching within automated production lines

◆ Rapid changeover between cleaning and operating modes

◆ Selective transport systems handling multiple media

◆ Equipment designs that aim to reduce valve count and simplify piping

In many cases, a single three-way seat valve can replace two conventional globe valves, saving installation space and reducing system complexity.

From On/Off Control to Intelligent Flow Switching

As industrial automation continues to advance, simple on/off control is no longer sufficient. The TV series pneumatic three-way seat valve upgrades the valve’s role from a basic shut-off component to a process flow control element.

For systems that demand flexible switching and stable operation, it represents a practical and efficient solution.

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