What is the primary function of a three-way valve in a pneumatic circuit?

The primary function of a three-way valve in a pneumatic circuit is to control airflow in various directions. A three-way valve can connect to different ports to direct air to different actuators or components within a system. By doing this, the valve can either allow air to flow towards an actuator or exhaust air away from it, facilitating the actuation process and allowing for the control of various functions within a pneumatic system.

While a two-way valve typically serves a singular purpose of either allowing or blocking airflow, the design of a three-way valve provides versatility that is essential in directing air to where it is needed or exhausting it as required for the application. This capability is crucial for managing the operation of pneumatically driven devices, which may require multiple positions or states of operation.

In contrast, ancillary functions such as regulating air pressure or providing a pressure relief mechanism are not the main roles of a three-way valve. Those functions are typically better suited to pressure regulators or specific relief valves designed to ensure safety and maintain the desired operating pressure within a system.