3-way ball valves are common because they are a cost-effective and easy way to control both shutoff and flow paths in a single valve body. The T-pattern is called a mixer valve since the media of 2-inlet flows can be mixed within the valve. It's leaving the valve on the other end. In a way, all 3- ports can be opened at 1 time. The T-pattern ball valve will also act as a diverter so that it can operate in the same manner as the L-type valve. It could be achieved with a quarter-turn of the handle. T-patterns cannot have a bubble-tight shut-off, but they can restrict the flow to 2-ports or facilitate the passage to all 3- ports. Material: Stainless Steel.