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The balancing valve, what you need to know

When it comes to hydraulics, it's all about controlling and moderating power. The slightest failure, the slightest excess of force from one component to another, could have catastrophic consequences. That's why there are management tools, like the hydraulic valve or balancing valve. In this article, we'll explain its use, its characteristics and how it works. Let's get on with the balancing act!

The hydraulic system

In order to better understand the balancing valve, we feel it's crucial to set the scene by explaining how a hydraulic system and its various parts work.

The hydraulic system, through a more or less complex network of components, uses fluid pressure to initiate mechanical work. The ingenuity of this system lies in the use of pressure differences between two components aligned in the circuit. By physical principle, this generates energy, which in turn generates movement.

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the hydraulic system uses oil rather than water. Water would cause rust, and oil does not have the lubricating properties of water. Thanks to its properties, the oleaginous element allows the machines to operate harmoniously.

What are the different parts of a hydraulic system? They can be broken down into four main assemblies.

The first part is the generator set. This contains a pump, a reservoir and a drive motor. Its function is to ensure the circulation of fluids in the hydraulic system. The pump takes the fluid stored in the reservoir and sends it to the motor. The motor in turn uses the hydraulic energy generated by the pump to convert it into mechanical energy. Within the motor, the actuators (discussed below) help to transform the energy.

The second part is the control. This set of instruments manages the system's pressure and flow, by redirecting excess fluid to the reservoir.

Distribution ensures that the fluid circulates through the system, while controlling the direction it takes.

The last major assembly in a hydraulic circuit, and the one we are interested in today, is the actuators. Within the generating set, they assist in the task of transforming hydraulic energy into mechanical energy. They trigger rotary and linear movements. Linear actuators are also known as hydraulic cylinders. Balancing valves are added to these cylinders.

The balancing valve

The balancing valve is installed ("flanged") directly onto a cylinder to control the lowering of loads. It prevents any uncontrolled movement and inhibits the mechanism in the event of electrical overexcitation or overload. It can also be used to block movement in the event of a hose rupture in the mechanism.

As you can see, the balancing valve is an essential tool for ensuring the safety of equipment and users. So you need to choose your balancing valve with care and circumspection.

To make the right choice, you need to assess the flow rate and pressure your valve will have to withstand. In addition, an extreme environment (very high or very low temperatures, dust, violent and frequent shocks, etc.) will inevitably be a factor in product selection. The valve is fixed for life to the device. Any error of judgement in the purchase of a balancing valve could therefore mean, in the short or long term, a costly change to all your equipment.

We hope we've shed some light on the subject, and invite you to consult your options now!

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