multivalve

Multivalve is a term used to describe a valve arrangement that provides more than two ports within a single valve body. It is used across engineering disciplines to describe devices in which several fluid paths are actively managed by a single valve.

In internal combustion engines, multivalve generally means cylinder heads containing more than two valves per cylinder. The most common configuration is four valves per cylinder (two intake, two exhaust), though three- and five-valve designs have also been used. Benefits include improved airflow, higher peak power, more efficient combustion, and better throttle response at high engine speeds. Drawbacks include higher cost and greater complexity in the valve train and head design, as well as maintenance considerations such as sealing and lubrication.

In hydraulic and pneumatic systems, multivalve usually refers to directional control valves with multiple ports. Common configurations are 3-way and 4-way valves, which route fluid to actuators, to the reservoir, or between circuits. These devices are used in industrial machinery, aerospace, irrigation, and heating/cooling systems. Advantages include flexible routing and compact layouts; disadvantages can include larger physical size and higher risk of leakage with more ports.

The term multivalve is descriptive rather than a strict product category; its exact meaning depends on the application and industry.