Bailey International LLC Directional Control Valve

Hydraulic valves are manufactured in a variety of styles to function in different applications. Valves are used to manipulate the flow of hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic circuit and are activated either mechanically or electronically. Directional Control Valves are the most commonly used valve in a hydraulic system. Control valves direct the flow of hydraulic fluid from the pump to the actuators or other sections of the hydraulic circuit. Control valves are returned to their neutral state with a spring or held in each position with a detent mechanism. These valves are generally used to control the direction of a hydraulic motor or cylinder; they can also perform other functions in a circuit. Hydraulic directional control valves should be selected based upon both the size of the circuits and the components, both upstream and downstream to the valve. Flow ratings should be based upon the highest possible flow the valve will need to achieve. In most cases this flow would be from a cast body or a sectional style that can be assembled to meet the requirements of most applications. Most industrial solenoid-operated directional control valves can be interchanged between many manufacturers due to industry standard mounting connections.