Different industrial applications like material feeders and holders, smooth positioning of platforms, etc. utilize modular valves for providing a smooth flow of hydraulic oil. Currently, modular valves are widely used with the same function of controlling the direction, rate, and strength of the fluid flow through the circuit. Compared with normal valves, modular valves have many advanced features that are mentioned in this article.
Modular valves are stack type valves, which can create any hydraulic circuit easily by stacking the valves with mounting bolts. By integrating modular valve design, the entire system design can be simplified and helps to quickly assemble the components with minimum effort. The role of the modular valve is to eliminate the need for pipe connections and to save space. Utilizing modular valves in the circuit will not only minimize the installation area but can prevent system issues like oil leaks, vibration and noise. Modular valves don’t require expert skills for assembling; this can be assembled just like a child’s building block model.
The modular valve is arranged by stacking one above the other by mounting onto a set-sized base plate. The Plastic box panel will protect the valve from particulate ingress and wear-and-tear. These valves have dedicated inputs and outputs at fixed points that can be easily attached to O-rings. The fixed mounting enables to swap the same size modular housing easily and safely to reconfigure, test, and repair the hydraulic circuit.
The most common four categories of modular valves are pressure control, flow control, pressure checkers, and reversible shuttle. Among these, the most frequently used is the pressure control modular valve and this will limit the pressure within a set area. The pressure checkers will enable fluid flow if the predefined hydraulic pressure is achieved. The flow control modular valves will allow safe omnidirectional hydraulic motor use by controlling the fluid flow.
The design and installation of modular valves and ordinary valves are entirely different. The ordinary valves are mounted onto a valve skid and it contains piping. But, in reverse, modular valves will eliminate the need for piping. When considering modular valve design, it consists of a base plate with various modules that can be stacked up on top. A spool valve or crossover plate is fitted on the top of the stack to simplify the installation and maintenance process. The total volume of modular valve assemblies is smaller than threaded connections.
The key advantages of modular valves are highlighted below:
- Reduces external leakage of hydraulic oil
- Pressure loss and heat generation reduced
- Minimize assembly time and cost
- Reduces system vibration to prevent system failure
- Shorten system response time