Click here to find Hydraulic Valves Manufacturers | Discuss Hydraulic Valves & Other Topics

Hydraulic valves help regulate the flow of fluid within a hydraulic circuit. They can be used to completely close a line, to redirect pressurized fluid or to control the level of flow to a certain area. Designed in a wide range of styles, they can be controlled manually or automatically, by physical, mechanical, pneumatic or electrical activation.

Hydraulic valves are manufactured in the same categories as other fluid control valves, including ball, bypass relief, check, regulating, pilot-operated, proportional and directional. Manufacturers use a wide range of materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel and various synthetics. The choice of valve type and material is dependent upon the application, as different materials and designs have different pressure and flow ratings. Valve manufacturers will list the valve’s pressure rating at a certain temperature, as well as the minimum and maximum temperatures that the device can withstand. Also provided will be valve diameter, typically measured in inches, as well as the mounting flange dimensions and specifications, which should both be matched to your system.

Ball valves are generally among the more simple hydraulic valves available. They involve a handle or similar control that is linked by a metal stem to a ball within the valve. The ball has a central hole and allows fluid flow when properly aligned. When the ball is turned so that the hole is perpendicular to the flow of the pipe, it stops the movement of fluid. Relief valves provide an alternate passage for fluid when it reaches a certain pressure, thereby helping to regulate the pressure of the entire system.

Other, more complex valves are available, which can be activated by compressed air, electricity or other remote means. These control valves can be used to specifically regulate the parts of the system receiving hydraulic fluid, as well as the level of fluid being supplied.