Hydraulic valves are the essential elements that control hydraulic systems. Hydraulic control valves must be precise in order to properly regulate the movements of hydraulic cranes, elevators and other machinery. They work by regulating the liquid exchange between hydraulic cylinders; the change in pressure then produces movement.
Modern hydraulic flow valves are usually operated electrically. This combination of technology increases hydraulic flow valve efficiency and lowers the chance of error. Because of increased designed research and proliferated use, hydraulic valves and equipment are also much less expensive than they used to be.
A hydraulic check valve is common and allows only one directional flow. Electric hydraulic valves can also be directional control type, but these do not all use the same mechanics to do their job. Here are the three main types:
1. In a poppet hydraulic valve, a ball or piston is seated or unseated.
2. A rotary hydraulic spool valve, as the name implies, contains a rotating spool.
3. In a sliding hydraulic spool valve, the spool slides back and forth through a bore.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Shop multiple hydraulic valve providers for the best prices
There are a number of good hydraulic valve manufacturers, so do not limit your search. Don't settle for less than top quality, but don't spend money you don't have to.
I recommend: Start with
Grainger, which has a great selection (almost 400 varieties), especially if you are looking for a hydraulic check valve.
Westfield Hydraulics Inc. is a serious solution provider, though you'll need to contact the company, rather than clicking your way through your order for electric hydraulic valves.
Precision Fluid Power Inc. has wholesale prices on many top manufacturers, but you'll need to know what you are looking for, because they do not provide the details available on Grainger's website.
Review hydraulic valves information
Using the wrong equipment is often costly. Even the failure of a $7 valve can put factory production on hold for hours. Check all the specifications of your application and then get a good match in terms of metal type (don't put brass and galvanized together), pressure and temperature rating and fit. You'll also want to consider flow rate.
I recommend: The best websites provide good categorization, by listing hydraulic control valves separate from check valves, for instance. But they also clearly list all the other parameters. Take a look at all the details on a listing from
AUSCO, Inc..
Maintain and repair your electro hydraulic valves
Regular maintenance and repair is necessary to keep hydraulic equipment operating efficiently. Additionally, the upkeep prolongs the longevity of equipment, a definite plus to your profit margin.
I recommend: Schutte & Koerting provides service and support for valve refurbishment. Additionally,
Boig and Hill Inc. have detailed maintenance manuals along with the product listings on their website.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Angle valves allow for a unique type of flow through that maximizes flow in hydraulics.
The official source of Hydraulic Valves is the Hydraulic Valves page at Business.com