Flow Control Valves

Flow control valves – controlled volume flow for even movements

Flow control valves regulate the volume flow of the hydraulic fluid and thus directly determine the speed at which the platform of a tail lift moves. Above all in the lowering mode they ensure even, controlled descent under load. At SULEJ Ladebordwand you will find flow control valves in different flow classes and connection patterns, matched to the installed component and available in various sizes and connection variants – a key element for quiet, dosed movement sequences.

Function and designs – from throttle to load-independent regulation

Simple throttle valves act as fixed or adjustable flow restrictors and limit the volume flow purely mechanically. Load-independent flow control valves combine the throttle point with a pressure compensator and keep the set volume flow constant even with varying load. As a result, the lowering speed of the platform remains largely identical with full load as well as during empty lifting movement. Housing and control piston are made of hardened steel, while the throttle bores are finely machined so that the regulation stays precise over thousands of load cycles.

Dosing the lowering speed correctly – what to look out for

When replacing a flow control valve, the target value of the volume flow is decisive. A lowering speed that is too high produces jerky load changes in the cylinder, while one that is too low results in noticeably sluggish platform behaviour. Pay attention to clean control edges, an easily moving spool and the matching connection pattern in the valve block. After installation, a functional test with different loads is worthwhile to properly assess the lowering speed.

Benefits at a glance

• Defined lowering speed of the platform – even under changing load
• Mechanical and load-independent designs depending on requirement
• Hardened control pistons and finely machined throttle bores for long service life
• Compatible with common valve blocks and cartridge cavities

A precisely working flow control valve ensures quiet, controlled movements and protects the cargo from hard load changes.