[balddave]

how do 3 way valves work. do they take a main input and switch is between two outputs(or one out put and exhaust) or is it a free for all and when opened flow can go in any direction. I've also so seen 3 ways with 5 ports what the heck is up with that. I'm confused.

also could you use a 3 way with an input output and exhaust for a single acting cylinder ( if a 3way works like the first way i stated)

Did i mention i'm confused

Thanks in advance

[Lin Dze]

Heres how all these terms came about for the same part.

3way - Counting only the Input, Out A, Out B.
4way - Standard pneumatic method: Input, Out A, Out B, Exhaust
5way - Counts Input, Out A, Out B, Exhast for OA, Exhaust for OB.

To answer your question on how they work heres small picture:



Thats how 95% of these types of switches work.

For a single acting, spring return cylinder you could either get a true 3way switch (In, OutA, OutB) or simply plug one port of a 4way.

[balddave]

Thanks that answered my question to a tee. Perfect. Thanks for the pics those helped even more.

[Radioactive Bear]

How does the Bomb 3-way work?