Full-circulation four-way fitting

The innovative design of the full-circulation four-way fitting solves the problem of 'dead water' in traditional water supply pipeline systems, realizes the circulation of living water, and improves water health and system efficiency.

CN223965108UActive Publication Date: 2026-03-03浙江中财管道科技股份有限公司
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202520763333.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-04-21
Publication Date
2026-03-03
Estimated Expiration
2035-04-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional home water supply systems suffer from "dead water" problems caused by prolonged periods without water usage, which affect the health and safety of water users.

Method used

Design a fully circulating four-way fitting. By setting up interconnected inlet and outlet branches, using an inclined inlet baffle and straight pipe connection, and combining with a U-shaped tee fitting, a live water circulation loop is formed to ensure continuous water flow in the pipeline system.

Benefits of technology

It achieves full circulation of living water in the pipeline system, avoids the phenomenon of 'stagnant water', improves the health of water use, reduces bacterial growth and scale accumulation, and enhances water circulation efficiency and system stability.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a full-circulation four-way fitting, which belongs to the technical field of pipeline components, and comprises a horizontally arranged main pipeline, the lower part of the main pipeline is communicated with a water inlet branch port and a water outlet branch port, and the water inlet branch port and the water outlet branch port are both inclined towards the inner side; the water inlet branch is provided with a water inlet baffle in the main pipeline, the water inlet baffle is arranged at the position, close to the water outlet side of the main pipeline, of the water inlet branch, the water inlet branch and the water outlet branch are connected with different vertical branch pipes respectively, and the bottom ends of the vertical branch pipes are connected through U-shaped three-way pieces. A whole pipeline system is formed by connecting branches, flowing water is fully circulated, dead water does not exist, and water is healthier.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pipeline component technology, specifically a full-circulation four-way fitting. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of modern life and people's increasing demand for a comfortable quality of life, home water supply pipe systems are beginning to develop towards a fully circulating water pipe system. Traditional home water supply pipe systems use relatively simple pipe fittings. If some branches in the house have no water for a long time, "stagnant water" will appear in some branches of the pipe system, leading to problems such as unhealthy water use.

[0003] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN220910781U, Publication Date: May 7, 2024, discloses a Chinese patent entitled "Anti-clogging T-joint Connector," which includes a first pipe, a groove, and a third pipe. A second pipe is disposed on one side of the first pipe, and the third pipe is disposed on one side of the first pipe. A fixing block is fixedly connected to one side of the first pipe. The groove is formed inside the fixing block, and a limiting mechanism is disposed inside the groove to fix the second and third pipes. A sealing mechanism is provided between the first and second pipes and the third pipe. A vertical plate is fixedly connected to one side of both the second and third pipes. This connector may experience "stagnant water" when there is no water for a long time, leading to problems such as unhealthy water usage. Utility Model Content

[0004] This utility model provides a fully circulating four-way fitting. By setting up interconnected inlet and outlet branches, it ensures the water flow of the branches and connects the branches to form the entire pipeline system, achieving full circulation of living water and eliminating "stagnant water," thus making water use healthier.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a full-circulation four-way fitting, comprising a horizontally arranged main pipe, with an inlet branch and an outlet branch connected below the main pipe, both the inlet branch and the outlet branch being inclined inward; the inlet branch is provided with an inlet baffle inside the main pipe, the inlet baffle being located near the outlet side of the main pipe, the inlet branch and the outlet branch being connected to different vertical branch pipes respectively, and the bottom ends of the vertical branch pipes being connected by a U-shaped tee fitting.

[0006] Preferably, the inlet baffle is inclined towards the inlet side of the main pipe. The inlet baffle increases the water flow in the branch pipe. When water flows from right to left in the main pipe, the baffle forces the water to flow into the vertical branch pipe, significantly increasing the water flow in the branch pipe. The inlet baffle is an extension of the side wall of the first straight pipe near the outlet of the main pipe. This inclined design not only increases the water flow in the branch pipe but also makes the water flow smoother when entering the vertical branch pipe, reducing water impact and turbulence, thereby reducing water noise and improving the user experience.

[0007] Preferably, the inlet baffle and the inner wall of the top of the main pipe do not contact each other. This avoids friction and wear that may occur when the inlet baffle comes into contact with the inner wall of the top of the main pipe, extends the service life of the inlet baffle and the main pipe, and ensures unobstructed water flow.

[0008] Preferably, both the inlet and outlet branches are connected to the main pipe via a single straight pipe. Using a single straight pipe connection simplifies the structure, facilitates manufacturing and installation, and ensures a smoother transition of water flow between the main pipe and the branch, reducing flow resistance and improving water transmission efficiency.

[0009] Preferably, the first straight pipe is inclined inward, and the first straight pipes of the inlet and outlet branches are symmetrically arranged. The distance from the inlet branch to the main pipe inlet is the same as the distance from the outlet branch to the main pipe outlet. They are symmetrically arranged along the axis of symmetry of the main pipe. This symmetrical arrangement makes the water flow distribution in the main pipe more uniform, avoiding the problems of water flow deviation and excessive local pressure caused by structural asymmetry, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire pipeline system. It also helps to maintain the balance of water flow and further optimizes the water circulation effect.

[0010] Preferably, both the inlet and outlet branches are connected to the vertical branch pipe via a second straight pipe. This second straight pipe connection allows for better adjustment of the relative position and angle between the vertical branch pipe and the main pipe, facilitating flexible arrangement according to actual installation needs, improving the adaptability and versatility of the piping system, and also ensuring stable water flow within the vertical branch pipe.

[0011] Preferably, the second straight pipe is vertically installed, with a second connecting part on the inner side wall of its bottom end. The second connecting part is used to connect to the vertical branch pipe. The vertical installation of the second straight pipe ensures smooth water flow in the vertical direction, preventing water stagnation or backflow caused by pipe inclination. The design of the second connecting part provides a reliable connection method, ensuring a firm connection between the vertical branch pipe and the second straight pipe, preventing leakage, and also facilitating installation, disassembly, maintenance, and replacement.

[0012] Preferably, the first and second straight pipes are connected by an arc-shaped bend. The advantage of this design is that when water flows from right to left in the main pipe, it ensures that a sufficient amount of water from the inlet is diverted into the vertical branch pipe. The arc-shaped bend allows for smoother water flow at turns, reducing water impact and energy loss, improving the diversion effect, and ensuring that more water can smoothly enter the vertical branch pipe. This further optimizes the water circulation performance of the entire pipeline system and improves its operating efficiency.

[0013] Preferably, both the inlet and outlet of the main pipe are equipped with a first connection part on their inner walls. This first connection part connects to other main pipelines. This fitting is used in conjunction with a fully circulating water system and is primarily used at the outlets of faucets, showers, and toilets. During installation, the main pipe is connected to the main pipeline, and the two branch outlets are connected to vertical pipes respectively. Then, a U-shaped tee is connected to form a circulating pipeline. Regardless of which branch is used, including faucets, showers, and toilets, the water in the entire pipeline system will circulate, achieving a truly circulating water system with no stagnant water in any branch. The design of the first connection part allows the main pipe to be easily connected to other main pipelines, improving the flexibility and integrity of the pipeline system. By using it in conjunction with a fully circulating water system, true circulating water is achieved, ensuring healthy water use, effectively preventing bacterial growth, reducing scale buildup, extending the service life of the pipeline system, and also contributing to water conservation and improved water resource utilization efficiency.

[0014] Preferably, the U-shaped tee connects the inlet and outlet branches via a vertical branch pipe, and a connecting pipe is provided on the bottom side wall of the U-shaped tee. The U-shaped tee provides a crucial connection channel for water circulation, ensuring smooth water circulation throughout the entire pipeline system by connecting the inlet and outlet branches. The connecting pipe on the bottom side wall further optimizes the water circulation path, allowing for more even distribution of water to each branch, improving the overall circulation efficiency and water quality of the pipeline system, while also facilitating maintenance and repair.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: This utility model provides a fully circulating four-way fitting. By setting up interconnected inlet and outlet branches, it can ensure the water flow of the branches and connect the branches to form the entire pipeline system to achieve full circulation of living water, eliminating "stagnant water" and making water use healthier. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model.

[0018] Figure 3 This is an assembly diagram of the present invention.

[0019] Reference numerals: 1: Main pipe; 1.1: First connection; 2: Inlet branch; 2.1: Inlet baffle; 2.2: First straight pipe; 2.3: Bend; 2.4: Second straight pipe; 2.5: Second connection; 3: Outlet branch; 4: Vertical branch pipe; 5: U-shaped tee. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0021] In modern water supply and hot water circulation systems, ensuring healthy water circulation is crucial. Traditional piping systems often have "stagnant" areas where water remains stagnant for extended periods, making them prone to bacterial growth and impurity accumulation, threatening water safety. This new fully circulating four-way fitting, through its innovative structural design, successfully solves this problem, providing key support for building healthy and efficient piping systems.

[0022] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this full-circulation four-way fitting mainly consists of a horizontally arranged main pipe 1 and inlet branch 2 and outlet branch 3 connected to it. Both inlet branch 2 and outlet branch 3 are located below the main pipe 1 and are inclined inwards. Inlet branch 2 has an inlet baffle 2.1 inside the main pipe 1. Inlet branch 2 and outlet branch 3 are respectively connected to different vertical branch pipes 4. The bottom ends of the two vertical branch pipes 4 are connected by a U-shaped tee fitting, thus forming a complete circulation loop. This structural design can achieve full circulation of living water in the entire pipeline system while ensuring the water flow in the branch pipes, eliminating the "stagnant water" phenomenon and making water use healthier.

[0023] like Figure 1As shown, the inlet baffle 2.1 is inclined towards the inlet side of the main pipe 1. In actual water flow simulation experiments, when water flows from right to left in the main pipe 1, the inlet baffle 2.1 plays a crucial role in blocking and guiding the flow. For example, in a main pipe 1 with a diameter of 50mm and a water flow velocity of 1m / s, without the inlet baffle 2.1, the water flow rate into the vertical branch pipe 4 is only 0.05L / s. However, after installing the inlet baffle 2.1, the water flow rate in the vertical branch pipe 4 increases significantly to 0.2L / s, a three-fold increase. The inlet baffle 2.1 is an extension of the side wall of the first straight pipe 2.2 near the outlet of the main pipe 1. This inclined setting not only significantly increases the water flow rate in the branch pipe but also makes the water flow smoother when entering the vertical branch pipe 4. After installing the inlet baffle 2.1, the impact and turbulence phenomena of the water flow entering the vertical branch pipe 4 are significantly reduced, water flow noise is reduced, and the user experience is greatly improved.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, the inlet baffle 2.1 and the inner wall of the top of the main pipe 1 do not contact each other. During long-term use, water flows at high speed within the main pipe 1. If the inlet baffle 2.1 were to contact the inner wall of the top of the main pipe 1, friction would cause wear, shortening the service life of both the inlet baffle 2.1 and the main pipe 1. Simultaneously, the non-contact design ensures unobstructed water flow, reducing flow resistance in actual water flow tests, ensuring smooth water flow, and improving the overall operating efficiency of the pipeline system.

[0025] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, both the inlet branch 2 and the outlet branch 3 are connected to the main pipe 1 via a first straight pipe 2.2. In terms of manufacturing process, the first straight pipe 2.2 uses high-precision tubing and is tightly connected to the main pipe 1 and the branch via heat fusion or threaded connections. It can also be integrally injection molded; this simple connection method greatly facilitates processing, manufacturing, and installation. The first straight pipe 2.2 ensures a smoother transition of water flow between the main pipe 1 and the branch. In water flow resistance tests, the water flow resistance using the first straight pipe 2.2 connection is lower than that using curved or irregularly shaped connection structures, thus improving water transmission efficiency.

[0026] like Figure 1As shown, the first straight pipe 2.2 is inclined inward, and the first straight pipes 2.2 of the inlet branch 2 and the outlet branch 3 are symmetrically arranged. The distance from the inlet branch 2 to the inlet of the main pipe 1 and the distance from the outlet branch 3 to the outlet of the main pipe 1 are the same, and they are symmetrically arranged along the axis of symmetry of the main pipe 1. In the actual operation of the pipeline system, the symmetrical arrangement makes the water flow distribution in the main pipe 1 more uniform. By monitoring the pressure at different positions in the main pipe 1 using pressure sensors, it was found that the pressure deviation at each position in the main pipe 1 is controlled within a very small range by the symmetrically arranged full-circulation four-way fitting, avoiding the problems of water flow deviation and excessive local pressure caused by structural asymmetry. In the hot water circulation system of a large commercial building, the stability and reliability of the entire system were significantly improved after adopting the symmetrically arranged full-circulation four-way fitting, reducing the equipment failure rate, and also helping to maintain the balance of water flow, further optimizing the water circulation effect.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, both the inlet branch 2 and the outlet branch 3 are connected to the vertical straight pipe via the second straight pipe 2.4. In actual pipe installation scenarios, due to differences in building structure and spatial layout, the pipe system needs a certain degree of flexibility. The presence of the second straight pipe 2.4 allows for better adjustment of the relative position and angle between the vertical branch pipe 4 and the main pipe 1. For example, in the pipe installation of an irregularly shaped building, by adjusting the length and angle of the second straight pipe 2.4, the problem of limited space was successfully solved, allowing the pipe system to be installed smoothly. At the same time, the second straight pipe 2.4 helps to ensure stable water flow in the vertical branch pipe 4. In water flow stability tests on second straight pipes 2.4 with different angles and lengths, when the connection angle between the second straight pipe 2.4 and the vertical branch pipe 4 is within a certain range, the water flow fluctuation in the vertical branch pipe 4 is minimal, and the stability is optimal.

[0028] The second straight pipe 2.4 is vertically installed, with a second connecting part 2.5 on the inner wall of its bottom end. The inner diameter of the second connecting part 2.5 is larger than the inner diameter of other parts of the second branch pipe, and it is used to connect to the vertical branch pipe 4. The vertical installation of the second straight pipe 2.4 ensures smooth water flow in the vertical direction, avoiding water stagnation or backflow caused by pipe inclination. In water flow experiments comparing the vertically installed and inclined second straight pipes 2.4, the water flow velocity in the vertically installed second straight pipe 2.4 was more stable, reducing water stagnation. The design of the second connecting part 2.5 provides a reliable connection method, preventing leakage and ensuring a firm connection between the vertical branch pipe 4 and the second straight pipe 2.4, while also facilitating installation.

[0029] like Figure 1As shown, the first straight pipe 2.2 and the second straight pipe 2.4 are connected by an arc-shaped bend 2.3. In actual water flow simulation experiments, when water flows from right to left in the main pipe 1, the arc-shaped bend 2.3 demonstrates significant advantages. The arc design allows for smoother water flow when turning. Analysis of water flow in bends 2.3 of different shapes using fluid dynamics simulation software reveals that the arc-shaped bend 2.3 minimizes water flow impact and energy loss. During water flow turning, the friction between the water flow and the pipe wall is reduced, decreasing turbulence and allowing more water to smoothly enter the vertical branch pipe 4. This optimized water flow diversion further enhances the water circulation performance of the entire pipeline system. In practical applications, such as the hot water supply system of a large hotel, using this arc-shaped bend 2.3-connected full-circulation four-way fitting results in a more stable hot water supply at each water point, significantly reduced water temperature fluctuations, and a greatly improved user experience.

[0030] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, both the inlet and outlet of the main pipe 1 are equipped with a first connecting part 1.1 on their inner walls. The inner diameter of the first connecting part 1.1 is larger than the inner diameter of other parts of the main pipe 1 to facilitate connection with other main pipes. In practical applications, the first connecting part 1.1 plays a crucial role when this full-circulation four-way fitting is used in conjunction with a full-circulation active water pipeline system. The connection method is not only convenient and quick but also secure and reliable. Under conditions of large water pressure fluctuations, the design of the first connecting part 1.1 greatly improves the connection flexibility and overall integrity of the pipeline system. In conjunction with the full-circulation active water pipeline system, this fitting is mainly used at the outlets of faucets, shower heads, toilets, etc. When users use water at these points, the water in the entire pipeline system circulates, truly realizing a live water system and preventing any branch pipes from becoming stagnant. In actual use, tests conducted by water quality testing agencies have shown that pipeline systems using this full-circulation four-way fitting reduce the bacterial content in the water compared to traditional pipeline systems, effectively ensuring the health of the water used.

[0031] In the fully circulating water pipeline system, this fully circulating four-way fitting serves as a key node, working in conjunction with other pipeline components. When the system is running, water flows in from the inlet of the main pipe 1. After being diverted and guided by the fully circulating four-way fitting, part of the water flows into the vertical branch pipe 4, forming a circulation loop through the U-shaped tee fitting. The other part of the water continues to flow in the main pipe 1, providing water to other water points. Throughout the circulation process, because there are no "stagnant" areas, the water flow remains constant, effectively preventing bacterial growth and scale accumulation.

[0032] like Figure 3As shown, the U-shaped tee 5 connects the inlet branch 2 and the outlet branch 3 via the vertical branch pipe 4, providing a necessary channel for water circulation. In actual water circulation, the U-shaped tee 5 ensures smooth water flow throughout the entire pipeline system. When all water points are closed, the water continues to circulate between the inlet branch 2, the vertical branch pipe 4, and the outlet branch 3 under the connection of the U-shaped tee 5, maintaining a stable flow velocity. A connecting pipe is provided on the bottom side wall of the U-shaped tee 5, which further optimizes the water circulation path. In complex pipeline systems, the connecting pipe allows for more even distribution of water flow to each branch. In the water supply and drainage system of a multi-story building, by rationally setting the location and diameter of the connecting pipe, the water pressure at each floor's water points becomes more balanced, the water flow distribution is more reasonable, and the circulation effect and water quality of the entire pipeline system are improved. Simultaneously, the presence of the connecting pipe facilitates maintenance and repair of the pipeline system. When a section of pipeline needs repair, maintenance personnel can use connecting pipes to divert or cut off the water flow, making the operation easier and improving maintenance efficiency.

[0033] U-shaped tee fittings 5 ​​are typically made of the same plastic or metal material as the pipe to ensure corrosion resistance and strength. High dimensional accuracy is required during manufacturing, especially at the interface connecting to the vertical branch pipe 4, ensuring a tight and secure seal. When installing the U-shaped tee fitting 5, first connect both ends to the vertical branch pipe 4. The connection method varies depending on the material, including heat fusion, welding, or threaded connection. For plastic U-shaped tee fittings 5 ​​and vertical branch pipes 4, when using heat fusion, strictly follow the operating procedures to ensure a secure connection. Then, install the U-shaped tee fitting 5 in the designated position, adjusting its angle and position to ensure smooth water flow. After installation, perform a sealing test on the connection by injecting water into the piping system and observing for leaks. If leaks are found, repair them promptly to ensure the sealing and normal operation of the entire piping system.

[0034] Maintenance Procedure: During routine maintenance, regularly inspect the full-circulation four-way fittings, checking the main pipe 1, inlet branch 2, outlet branch 3, and connection points for leaks, deformation, or damage. Use an ultrasonic thickness gauge to test the pipe wall thickness to ensure the pipe has not thinned due to corrosion or wear. For the inlet baffle 2.1, check for displacement or damage; adjust or replace it promptly if necessary. Simultaneously, regularly clean the pipeline system to remove impurities and dirt, ensuring smooth water flow and healthy water quality. During cleaning, use professional pipeline cleaning equipment, such as high-pressure water guns or chemical cleaning agents, selecting the appropriate cleaning method based on the actual situation. Furthermore, monitor the water flow throughout the entire pipeline system using flow and pressure sensors to monitor water flow velocity and pressure changes in real time, promptly identifying and resolving any potential flow anomalies.

[0035] This utility model's fully circulating four-way fitting, through the design of the arc-shaped bend 2.3 connection, the main pipe 1 connection, and the optimization of the U-shaped tee fitting, realizes the full circulation of living water in the pipeline system, effectively ensuring water health, improving water circulation efficiency, reducing water waste, and extending the service life of the pipeline system.

[0036] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A full cycle four-way fitting, characterized in that, It comprises a horizontally arranged main pipe, a water inlet branch and a water outlet branch are communicated below the main pipe, and the water inlet branch and the water outlet branch are both inclined to the inner side; A water inlet baffle is arranged in the water inlet branch in the main pipe, the water inlet baffle is arranged at the water inlet branch close to the water outlet side of the main pipe, the water inlet branch and the water outlet branch are respectively connected with different vertical branch pipes, and the bottom end of the vertical branch pipe is connected through a U-shaped three-way piece.

2. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 1, wherein The water inlet baffle is inclined to the water inlet side of the main pipe.

3. A full-cycle four-way fitting according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The water inlet baffle and the inner side wall of the top end of the main pipe are not in contact.

4. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 3, wherein The first straight pipe is arranged to be inclined to the inner side, and the first straight pipes of the water inlet branch and the water outlet branch are arranged to be symmetrical to each other.

5. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 4, wherein The second straight pipe is arranged to be vertical, and the inner side wall of the bottom end is provided with a second connecting part.

6. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 5, wherein The first straight pipe and the second straight pipe are connected through an arc-shaped elbow pipe.

7. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 6, wherein The inner side walls of the water inlet and the water outlet of the main pipe are both provided with a first connecting part.

8. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 7, wherein The U-shaped three-way piece communicates the water inlet branch and the water outlet branch through the vertical branch pipe, and the bottom end side wall of the U-shaped three-way piece is provided with a communicating pipe.

9. A full-cycle four-way fitting according to claim 1 or 2 or 4, wherein, ​ 10. A full-circulation four-way fitting according to claim 1, wherein ​

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Anti-blocking three-way connecting pipe

    CN220910781U