wyes

Wyes is the plural form of wye, a term used in engineering and design to describe a Y-shaped junction or connection. The name derives from the letter Y, reflecting the characteristic branching shape found in various systems. Wyes are encountered in plumbing, electrical power, and rail transportation, among other fields, where a three-way junction or branch is required.

In plumbing and drainage, a sanitary wye is a pipe fitting that connects a branch line to a main line at a 45-degree angle. This angle promotes smoother flow and reduces turbulence compared with a 90-degree elbow, helping to prevent blockages and promote proper drainage and venting. Wyes come in different sizes and hub configurations and are selected to meet local plumbing codes and system requirements.

In electrical engineering, a wye, also called a star connection, describes a three-phase arrangement where each of the three phase conductors is connected to a common neutral point. This configuration provides line-to-neutral voltages in addition to line-to-line voltages, enabling single-phase devices to be powered from a three-phase system. Wye connections require a neutral conductor and careful grounding, and unbalanced loads can cause neutral current and voltage variations.

In rail transportation, a wye is a triangular turnout that forms three connected track legs. This arrangement allows locomotives or cars to move between lines or reverse direction without occupying a mainline, making it useful in yards or at junctions. Wye track systems require substantial space and precise engineering, and they differ from simpler straight or turnout configurations.

Across contexts, the common feature of wyes is the Y-shaped or three-branch geometry that enables flexible connections among three paths.