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

Release Time :

2025-01-23

According to the dictionary, throttling means slowing down or weakening. A throttling valve therefore slows down the speed of the gas flow. This is achieved by adjusting the height of the throttling needle on its nozzle device (control knob), thereby changing the flow rate. When the flow rate is lower, the corresponding cylinder chamber will fill more slowly, which in turn causes the cylinder to move more slowly.

Flowmeters control speed independently

For most applications, it is ideal to be able to control the speed in each direction independently. Throttling the air intake on a double-acting cylinder can lead to unstable movement curves.

In order to be able to control both stroke directions independently, throttling valves with integrated check valves can be used. In these flow regulators, the compressed air is throttled only in one direction (flow from port 1 to 2), while it can flow unrestricted in the other direction (flow from port 2 to 1). This is achieved by a diaphragm that closes automatically in the controlled flow direction.

Pressurization and exhaust with throttle valves

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

Throttle valves for regulating the exhaust volume (exhaust)

Throttle valves for regulating the supply air (pressurization)

Throttle valves on the exhaust side

For most cylinder applications, it is best to control the speed on the exhaust side. The advantage is that the exhaust chamber constantly exerts a counterpressure on the other chamber, which is then filled with compressed air without restriction. In this way, a controlled movement is produced and stick-slip effects are avoided.

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

Flow control valves based on pressurization

Flow control valves with pressurization control are mainly used for single-acting cylinders. In this case, the return stroke is produced mechanically (usually a spring). This type of throttle valve can also be used for smaller cylinders with a short stroke and a small displacement. In this case, there is not enough volume to produce a "gas cushion" effect.


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