Directional Control Valves
Directional control valves are critical components that enable precise control over the flow of fluid in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
By understanding their purpose, applications, and various types, you can make informed decisions when selecting the best control valves for your specific needs. At Orange Coast Pneumatics, we offer an expansive collection of distinct valve types for controlling direction in a pneumatic system.
Find the right control valves for your operations, here. Then, continue reading to discover more about their purpose, applications, and benefits.
What are Directional Control Valves?
Directional control valves are essential components that enable fluids or compressed air to flow in specific directions within a system. This provides precise control over the operation of hydraulic and pneumatic systems to optimize performance and efficiency.
What is a 2-Way Directional Control Valve?
One of the common types of directional control valves is the 2-way valve. As the name suggests, it has two ports: an inlet and an outlet.
This valve provides the capability to start and stop the flow of fluid in a system. It allows for either an open or closed position, controlling the flow path with simplicity and reliability.
2-way valves are often used in applications where on/off control is sufficient, such as in basic hydraulic or pneumatic systems.
How Do Directional Control Valves Operate a System?
Directional control valves keep air flowing in the desired direction, making them indispensable for system operation. When activated, these valves shift from the neutral position to the desired position, enabling airflow through the appropriate channels.
This controlled flow enables various system functions to specific components, such as actuating cylinders, driving motors, or directing fluid. When the intended action is completed, the valve returns to the neutral position, stopping the flow of fluid and ensuring system stability.
What is the Most Common Directional Control Valve?
The most common type of directional control valve is the 4-way, 3-position valve (also referred to as the 4/3-way valve). It features four working ports, including an inlet, an outlet, and two more ports (typically labeled "A" and "B").
These valves provide multiple control options, allowing for diverse functionality within a hydraulic or pneumatic system. The 4-way, 3-position valve has three possible positions: neutral, extend, and retract.
By actuating the valve, you can switch between these positions, controlling the direction of fluid flow and enabling various system operations. This type of valve is widely used in applications such as machinery, industrial equipment, and mobile hydraulic systems.
Find the Best Control Valves for Your System at OC Pneumatics
Now that you have a better understanding of the purpose, applications, and different types of directional control valves, it's time to find the best control valves for your specific system. At OC Pneumatics, our wide range of high-quality control SMC Pneumatic valves are designed to meet the unique needs of diverse industries.
With our expertise and extensive selection, we’ll provide you with the ideal directional control valves to maximize the performance of your equipment. To find the right valves for controlling the direction of airflow in your pneumatic systems, reach out to our team today.
Solenoid Valves - 4 & 5 Port
Solenoid valves and manifolds feature low power consumption, high flow rates, quick response times and clean aesthetic designs. Solenoid valves are used extensively in the semi conductor, automotive, packaging, medical, specialty machine, and machine tool industries. Whatever your application is, we have a dependable solenoid valve series that will accommodate your most demanding application.
Solenoid Valves - 3 Port
Solenoid valves, 3 port are an innovative combination of space efficiency and performance superiority which provides real value to the design solution. Whether designed in a manifold or used as a single valve, these small profile valves increase design flexibility and minimizes space requirements. Low power pilot solenoid design, which dramatically reduces thermal heat generation. These valves can be configured on base mounted manifolds, or individually on sub-plates, creating a variety of solutions to meet your broadest engineering needs.
Solenoid Valves - Direct Operated
SMC offers Direct Operated Solenoid Valve in 3 port, 4 port, 5 port and suitable for vacuum and copper free application. Direct acting solenoid valve provides high speed, lightweight and high flow performance. The valve will operate at pressures from 0 psi to rated maximum pressure and can be configured as stand alone or in manifold base.
Industrial Communication
The advantage of a fieldbus system is the amount of flexibility and control it gives you in addition to the significant labor savings. SMC's latest innovations in fieldbus technology give you the power of decentralized communication and the flexibility needed for your control design. SMC supports wide variety of open fieldbus protocols to suit your networking needs including EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, DeviceNet, Profibus DP and many more.
Air Operated Valves
Air operated valves are available in body ported or base mounted styles. Many air operated valves use the same manifolds as series solenoid types. One-touch fittings are available on body ported types. Available thread types are Rc, G, NPT or NPTF.
Mechanical & Hand Operated Valves
SMC mechanical valves have been designed to meet general industry standards and are capable of long, trouble-free life under stringent operating conditions. The simple construction, utilizing corrosion resistant aluminum die cast bodies with optional heavy duty actuators and Buna N seal design, ensure positive operation and media control.
Safety Pressure Relief Valves
Special versions of the VP and VG series valves that conform to ISO13849-1 safety standard, categories 1 to 4. They are available as dual residual pressure release safety valves with detection of main valve position.
Solenoid Valves - ISO
SMC's ISO series valves conforms to ISO standard. A choice of metal or rubber seal increases compatibility with various operating and environmental conditions. Manifolds are available with a wide range of interface options to meet a variety of application requirements.
Valve Manifold Configurator
Our SY and VQC Series manifolds and valves can be designed by you. Online valve manifold configurator that allows you to design your own valve/manifold. You can choose your I/O type, select a specific valve for each station and even choose blanking plates for future expansion. After designing your SY Series valve/manifold, you can download the CAD model and BOM for your assembly.
