Different types of hydraulic valves

Although hydraulic valves are of various kinds, every valve’s function remains primarily the same i.e. controlling the flow and pressure of liquids, especially oil.  Put simply, a hydraulic system is of no value without a valve. It is therefore critical to purchase the right type of hydraulic valve for optimal performance.

Hydraulic valves are available in different sizes, but different types of valves can be used in a single hydraulic system. These valves have evolved over time. Let’s take a look at the three major types of hydraulic valves:

Flow control

Primarily designed to react to changes in pressure within a circuit, a flow control hydraulic valve monitors and controls the rate of liquid flow in a hydraulic system. This valve will open or close once the pressure hits a certain level.  Thus, this valve helps to attain balance with other components of a hydraulic system.

If a mechanical system is not functioning, the flow control valve keeps the liquid in standby mode and thereby prevents its flow within a hydraulic system. A common type of flow control hydraulic valve is a flow divider.

 

Directional

Also called switching valves, directional valves have been developed for three main purposes. Firstly, they are used to direct the flow of liquid in a hydraulic system in a particular direction. Secondly, they can propel or stop the flow of liquid n a hydraulic system. And lastly, directional hydraulic valves can change the direction in which a liquid flows within a system. Moreover, many directional valves today also control the speed of the fluid by changing the space through which it flows.

Directional valves are useful, simple and easy to use. However, every change in pressure or flow requires its own directional hydraulic valve. As a result, hydraulic circuits become to produce. In addition, they also make a lot of noise when switched on. Some common examples of directional valves are check valve and spool valves.

 

Pressure

Pressure hydraulic valves monitor the pressure of liquid in a hydraulic system by keeping it below the set limit. These valves are found in almost every hydraulic system. They also maintain a certain pressure level in part of a circuit.

There are different kinds of pressure valves, including counterbalance valves, pressure regulators, unloading valves, and sequence valves.  Each works in different ways to facilitate right pressure in a hydraulic system. Counterbalance valves create balance within a hydraulic system by preventing extreme accelerations. Pressure regulators, on the other hand, control the fluctuations in pressure and thus stabilize it. Furthermore, unloading valves are used to alleviate pressure as soon as it hits an extreme level. And sequence valves detect pressures, in addition to boosting pressure in a hydraulic system. 

Undoubtedly, hydraulic valves are a significant feature of a hydraulic power system, enabling smooth flow of fluids.  That is why their understanding is critical to ensure proper and smooth flow of industrial operations.

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