What type of valve is utilized to direct sewage flow to either the tank or overboard?

The three-way ball valve is designed to control the direction of fluid flow, making it particularly suitable for directing sewage flow to different locations, such as either to a holding tank or overboard. This type of valve features a spherical ball with three ports that allow it to switch the flow path efficiently. When the valve is operated, the ball's positioning determines whether the sewage is routed into the tank for storage or discharged overboard. This flexibility and reliability in managing flow direction are critical in sewage systems, ensuring that operations align with regulatory requirements and operational protocols.

In contrast, other types of valves serve different functions; for instance, a check valve allows fluid to flow in only one direction and prevents backflow but does not redirect flow. A gate valve is typically used for starting or stopping flow rather than directing it, as it provides full flow when open but cannot manage multiple flow paths. A pressure relief valve protects systems from excess pressure by venting fluid but does not control directional flow. Thus, in applications requiring the diversion of sewage flow, the three-way ball valve is the optimal choice.