Both are 3-way ball valves made by GEMELS, available in carbon steel or stainless steel, from DN6 to DN25 and up to PN500. They look identical on the outside: the difference is in the internal geometry of the adapters.

The operating limitation of the GE3
The GE3 is designed to accept inlet pressure exclusively from Port 1 (the central port). In this configuration, it guarantees correct valve operation.
If pressure is applied to Port 2 or Port 3, the seal is not guaranteed. Furthermore, when ports operate at different pressures, fluid may tend to migrate through the adapter seat, generating micro-leaks.

How the GE3K solves the problem
The GE3K integrates a double O-ring system on the adapters, creating an additional sealing barrier. Thanks to this design, the valve can accept fluid inlet from all ports (Port 1, Port 2, and Port 3), guaranteeing the seal even under differential pressures up to 300 bar between ports.
The double O-ring isolates the valve’s internal cavity from external pressure, eliminating the risk of leaks and making the GE3K the ideal solution for more demanding applications.

When to choose GE3

• Circuits where inlet pressure is always applied to Port 1.
• Systems where all three ports operate at equal or very similar pressures.
• Standard applications in agriculture, automotive, and material handling.

When to choose GE3K

• Circuits where fluid may enter from Port 2 or Port 3.
• Systems with differential pressure between ports.
• Heavy-duty applications requiring maximum sealing performance.
• Industrial vehicles, working machines, and high-cycle hydraulic systems.
• Any application where even the smallest leak is unacceptable.