Hydraulic Control Valves Set The Course For Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic control valves are one of the smallest, and yet most essential components of any hydraulic system. That includes any kind of domestic or industrial system that you might have worked with in the past. Everyone will be aware of control valves within these systems, but few people will understand the various types of valves and how the operate within a system.

The Role Of Control Valves

Control valves in hydraulic systems are used, as you’ll probably be able to guess, to control the flow and strength of the fluid in the system. Not only can it be used to control the flow, but it can dynamically change the direction of the flow around the system and ensure that they right fluid arrives at the correct destination.

The Different Kinds Of Hydraulic Control Valves

• Discrete Valves – Despite the name, these valves are actually one of the loudest forms of valve in use today. They are sometimes described as bang-bang, simply because they make such a loud noise when they move from open to completely closed.
  
  The noise is made because the transition occurs so quickly, and it is this speed that controls the rapid acceleration and deceleration of fluids. The valves will move through three different stages when moving the fluid, including retract, extend and neutral to ensure that the fluid moves at the rate and in volumes that the system requires.
  
  Under some conditions, these valves can create the fluid hammer effect, which is often identifiable by a sound similar to a hammer within the system.
• Digital Valves – One of the most basic and simplistic valves in use today, this valve only has two settings – on and off. Unlike the discrete alternative, digital valves use a poppet, plunger or ball to create an internal seal. This means that there is absolutely no leakage between the two ports connected to the valve.
• Check Valves – Perhaps the most common hydraulic control valve, this directional valve allows the fluid to flow in only one direction. Fluid will always stopped from flowing in the opposite direction. Usually, these models will work via a spring-loaded check valve which is naturally closed. They will only open when the pressure from downstream becomes more than the pressure of the valve itself.
• Spool Valves – The spool valve works via a sliding action. This spool will quickly slide between passages, allowing certain pathways to be opened or closed as the fluid itself is routed to different parts of the system. These spools can be used in a range of different applications. It is also common for these spools to have small, V-shaped notches to allow for a smooth and slower movement of fluid.

Hydraulic Control Valves Are Essential For Fluid Direction

Without reliable hydraulic control valves, you will be unable to direct the fluid throughout your system. That means that all systems would need to be extremely simple, and in the event of any potential malfunctions or overloads would need to be shut down completely to prevent lasting damage.

With control valves, you can dynamically take charge of the fluid within your system and ensure that it reaches the parts of your system where it is needed, when it is needed and in the volumes that it is required.

If you’re looking for the best hydraulic control valves, don’t hesitate to browse the great range available from the hydraulic specialists at Flowfit Online. If you are unsure about any of your system’s specifications, or you have any concerns about our hydraulic products, get in touch with our team directly on 01584 876 033 and we’ll do our best to sort you out.