1. Flow Control Valve (节流阀)
Function
Regulates fluid flow by adjusting the valve orifice opening to control the speed of actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, motors).
• Core Purpose: Limits flow rate without altering pressure (requires pressure valves for pressure control).
• Typical Applications:
• Speed control in hydraulic systems (e.g., machine tool worktable feed).
• Gas flow regulation (e.g., pneumatic tools, combustion systems).
Working Principle
• Orifice Design: Generates pressure drop via fixed or variable orifices (e.g., needle valves, slide valves).
• Flow Equation:
Q=CdA2ΔPρQ = C_d A \sqrt{\frac{2\Delta P}{\rho}}Q=CdAρ2ΔP
(Q: Flow rate; C_d: Discharge coefficient; A: Orifice area;ΔP\Delta PΔP: Pressure differential;ρ\rhoρ: Fluid density)
• Types:
• Manual Throttle Valves: Adjusted via knobs or handles.
• Proportional Flow Valves: Electronically controlled (e.g., PWM) for precise flow regulation.
Technical Specifications (Example)
【表格】
Parameter Description
Nominal Size DN6–DN50 (common)
Flow Range 0.1–1000 L/min (design-dependent)
Pressure Drop 0.1–10 MPa (flow/orifice-dependent)
Materials Body: Carbon steel/stainless steel; Seals: NBR/FKM
Selection Criteria
• Flow Matching: Ensure maximum flow does not exceed rated capacity.
• Pressure Drop: Avoid excessive drop reducing system efficiency.
• Media Compatibility: Select seal materials based on fluid type (e.g., hydraulic oil, water-based fluids).
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2. Relief Valve (溢流阀)
Function
Limits system maximum pressure to prevent overpressure damage while maintaining pressure stability.
• Core Purpose: Safety protection + pressure regulation (pressure-holding valve).
• Typical Applications:
• Hydraulic pump outlet pressure limitation.
• Branch circuit pressure control (e.g., clamping circuits).
Working Principle
• Direct-Acting Relief Valves:
• Spring directly opposes inlet pressure; valve opens when pressure exceeds setpoint.
• Suitable for low-pressure systems (<20 MPa).
• Pilot-Operated Relief Valves:
• Uses a pilot valve to control main valve opening; faster response for high-pressure systems (>20 MPa).
• Operation Process:
1. System pressure rises to setpoint.
2. Valve spool overcomes spring force, opening the drain port.
3. Excess fluid returns to the tank, maintaining constant pressure.
Technical Specifications (Example)
【表格】
Parameter Description
Pressure Range 0.5–35 MPa (model-dependent)
Flow Capacity 10–1000 L/min (orifice-size-dependent)
Response Time ≤10 ms (pilot-operated)
Leakage ≤1% rated flow (optimized seal design)
Selection Criteria
• Pressure Setting: Choose a range covering system maximum working pressure.
• Flow Matching: Ensure capacity exceeds system leakage + actuator flow.
• Mounting Style:
• Pipe-Mounted: Simple circuits.
• Manifold-Mounted: Integrated into valve blocks for space savings.
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3. Key Differences & Synergistic Applications
【表格】
Characteristic Flow Control Valve Relief Valve
Control Target Flow rate Pressure
Pressure Relief No Yes
Typical Symbol ┴ (orifice) □ with arrow and spring (relief symbol)
Synergy Paired with relief valves for speed-pressure control Last safety line for systems
Example Application:
In a hydraulic press, aRelief Valvesets the pump outlet maximum pressure at 25 MPa to prevent cylinder overload, while aFlow Control Valveadjusts the ram descent speed for precision machining.
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4. Common Issues & Solutions
Flow Control Valve
• Problem: Unstable flow
• Cause: Orifice blockage, pressure fluctuations.
• Solution: Clean orifice, upgrade filter precision.
Relief Valve
• Problem: Frequent cycling or leakage
• Cause: Spring fatigue, seal degradation.
• Solution: Replace spring, upgrade seal material (e.g., NBR to FKM).