Electrohydraulic digital control valve structure and working principle
October 13 04:07:52, 2025
In the early 1980s, computer-controlled electro-hydraulic systems began to emerge with new components, and today, these systems are applied using limited methods, such as incremental digital valves. These valves fall into categories like digital flow valves, digital pressure valves, and digital directional flow valves. A common example is the incremental digital flow valve, which typically includes components such as a stepper motor, ball screw, valve spool, valve sleeve, stem, and sensors.
The working principle of an incremental digital flow valve involves the computer sending a signal to the stepper motor, which then rotates. This rotation is converted into axial movement through a ball screw mechanism, which in turn drives the movement of the valve spool. Initially, the valve opens only partially, allowing for small flow rates. As the spool moves further, it reaches a full-opening position, enabling maximum flow, up to 3600 liters per minute.
Key features of this system include temperature compensation, achieved by accounting for the thermal expansion of the valve core, valve sleeve, and stem, ensuring a stable flow rate under varying conditions. Additionally, although the valve does not have a feedback mechanism, it incorporates a zero displacement sensor. At the end of each control cycle, the valve spool can be returned to its initial position, ensuring high repeatability and precision in operation. This design makes it particularly suitable for applications requiring consistent and accurate fluid control.