Did you know that the market size for hydraulic actuators could grow to over $2 million by the end of 2022? Hydraulic systems have become very crucial for various mobile and industrial jobs.
But for the system to work correctly, they need proper hydraulic valves. Understanding how these essential parts function is important before contacting a valve distributor.
The following guide will explain everything you need to know about different types of valves and valve automation.
Hydraulic Valves for Flow Control
Hydraulic valves that control flow regulate the outpour of fluid. They use a gate that moves and alters the flow speed through the valve.
Flow control is necessary for parts such as actuators, cylinders, and motors to function. Each of those devices’ drive speed depends on the flow rate.
Different examples of flow control include movable, pressure, and fixed valves. For more in-depth information, you can view this valves distributor site.
Hydraulic Valves for Pressure Control
Another hydraulic valve type controls fluid pressure to meet the system operator’s restrictions. Fluid systems are usually made to work at specific pressure ranges.
They help stop rising pressure that could cause leaks or pipes to burst. Examples of this valve type include reducing, sequence, relief, unloading, and counterbalance valves.
Hydraulic Valves for directional Control
Hydraulic valves for directional control monitor a system or circuit’s fluid. Then, they move between extended, retracted, and neutral positions to control hydraulic cylinders. These valves can also regulate the acceleration, speed, or direction of actuators.
Discrete directional control valves are another type that block flowing fluid. They use a check valve that seals the system if fluid starts to move in reverse. Check valves usually use a ball, plunger, or poppet to seal the system.
Some hydraulic directional control valves use more complex features. They must use different gates to change fluid for specific ports.
Four-Way Hydraulic Valves
Some hydraulic valves use a four-way system for directional control. They help direct fluid through hydraulic lines to change the rotation of a fluid motor. It can also alter working cylinder movements.
Typically, four-way valves use the sliding-spool method. It includes a return port that’s connected to a reservoir. Another port connects directly to the pressure line. The final two ports connect to an actuator.
These valves use a rectangular cast frame and a sppol that slides. The spool gets exactly fitted to a bore near the body’s longitudinal axis.
A spool splits the bore into a group of independent chambers. A valve’s body uses ports that lead into a chamber and spools situation decide which ports get opened or closed.
Some ports might be shut off from others in certain positions and may be connected when in other positions. A spool’s position gets assigned electrically, manually, mechanically, or hydraulically.
Understanding Valves and Hydraulic Actuators
Now you know about 4 common valve types and how they affect hydraulic actuators. Whether you’re working in construction or nuclear power, remember this guide and select the best valve type for your device.
Check out our site’s technology section for more fascinating information and tips.
Read more articles at Avple