3 Way Valve Question

[PNWDad]

This is a photo of a 2 in (inside slip) Pentair 3 way valve that I purchased. I was disappointed to see that the design incorporated what looks like a substantial flow bottleneck (see the "eye" shaped PVC in the inlet). My question, can someone tell me if the other brands of 3-way valves also have this eye-shaped bottleneck? My pentair 2-way valves have a round inlet-stop that meets flush with the diameter of PVC that is intended to fit inside the slip, so I know it is possible.



Thank you!

 

[jblizzle]

Once you put the pipe inside, then the "eye" shape is nearly gone. I would not call it a "substantial flow bottleneck" if you are using 2" pipe. If you were using 2.5" pipe with a coupler on the outside, then it would be more of a bottleneck.

BUT, a short restriction like this does not add a huge amount of head loss and will have very little impact on the flow rates.

 

[PNWDad]

It's still significantly present when viewed with a 2 in seated. I'm trying to avoid any headless due to poor design, it all adds up. Anyone know about other brands?

 

[jblizzle]

Much ado about nothing, IMO

 

[PNWDad]

Gottcha. Wondering about other brand valve designs, eye or round inlet stop? Jandy, others?

 

[jblizzle]

I only have a couple Pentair valves at home, so no other brands to offer pictures ... perhaps someone else has pictures to offer.

I just found this about the Jandy, different, but still appears to be some blockage:
http://blog.poolcenter.com/article.aspx?articleid=6209

 

[PNWDad]

Good find, thanks. Perhaps something about the 3-way seal design that requires that shape or similar.