A three-way ball valve is a type of valve used in plumbing and fluid control systems to redirect the flow of fluid between three different ports. Unlike a traditional 2-way valve that only has two ports, a 3-way valve has an additional port that allows the fluid to be diverted in different directions. By rotating the ball inside the valve, the flow path can be changed, allowing the fluid to flow through different combinations of ports. This versatility makes 3-way ball valves suitable for applications where fluid needs to be redirected or mixed, providing flexibility and control in various plumbing and industrial settings.