Which valve is used to control the speed of a cylinder?

Release Time :

2025-02-11

Flow control valves are used in pneumatic systems to regulate the flow of compressed air. By controlling the flow, the speed of the cylinder can also be adjusted directly. In addition, a good throttle valve helps to reduce wear due to lower kinetic energy loads. In addition, the control valve supports more stable and reliable movements. The latter is related to the fact that if the speed is not limited, the speed may fluctuate. This in turn can lead to a stick-slip effect and thus to unstable movements.

cylinder

Different types of flow control valves

Flow control valves are also more commonly known as flow regulators or flow controllers. They are available in different versions. This blog focuses on banjo-shaped flow control valves with built-in check valves. This valve is by far the most commonly used. And not without reason. On the one hand, this flow regulator is popular for its functionality and on the other hand, it is easy to assemble. This type of flow control valve is mounted directly on the cylinder and allows the actuator speed to be set on site. In addition, the angle flow regulator with check valve is very easy to operate from the side.

Function of a throttle or flow control valve

According to the dictionary, throttling means slowing down or weakening. Therefore, a throttle valve slows down the speed of the air flow. This is achieved by adjusting the height of the throttle needle on its nozzle device (control knob), thereby varying the flow rate. When the flow rate is lower, the corresponding cylinder chamber will fill more slowly, which in turn leads to a slower cylinder movement.

Pressurization and exhaust via throttle valves

Since throttle valves with non-return valves are adjusted in one direction, we have two different types:

Throttle valve for regulating the exhaust volume (exhaust)

Throttle valve for regulating the supply air (pressurization)

cylinder

Exhaust side throttle valve

For most cylinder applications, it is better to control the speed on the exhaust side. The advantage of this is that the exhaust chamber constantly exerts a counterpressure on the other chamber, while the other chamber is filled with compressed air without restriction. In this way, a controlled movement can be generated, avoiding stick-slip effects.

The blue control knob and the type designation LE (exhaust) indicate that the Festo VFOE series throttle valves throttle the exhaust.


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