Basic Functions of Pressure Control Valves
Most circuit designers use effectively designed systems to prevent uncontrolled system pressures and pump flow during standby periods. In this way, hydraulic system damage, overheating of the hydraulic fluid, and power wastage are prevented or avoided. This is where pressure control valves are used.
Pressure control valves are used in hydraulic systems to deal with and control the actuator force. The actuator force is produced by a hydraulic actuator that consists of a cylinder or fluid motor, which uses hydraulic power to enable a mechanical operation. The valves are also used to determine and select pressure levels.
Primary functions of pressure control valves:
- Reducing and unloading system pressure
- Lowering pressure levels from the main circuit going to the sub-circuit
- Regulating system pressure in certain parts of the circuit
- Preventing maximum system pressure at a safe level
- Other pressure-related functions which involve pressure control
- Assisting the operation sequence of the actuators in a circuit with the use of pressure control
Pressure-limiting Valves. Are type of pressure control valves that safeguard the system against excessive system pressures. They also limit the operation pressure to certain system functions.
Pressure-reducing Valves. A type of pressure valve that maintains large pressures event at a variable inlet pressure.
Shut-off Valves. These valves are responsible for receiving control oil from a high-pressure circuit. It also switches the delivery flow of a low-pressure pump to unpressurised circulation if the set pressure value has been reached.
Load-holding Valves. These valves prevent loads on motors or cylinders dropping in an uncontrolled state. The valves are pre-loaded with a high-pressure setting that is higher than any possible load.
The main purpose of the pressure control valve is to provide safety within the workplace. It prevents the possible damages of excessive pressures from the equipment. This way, workers or users of any pressure equipment are protected.
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About The Author
Stuart Havill
Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.
With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.
In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.
Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.
Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.
View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.