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Counterbalance Valve vs a Pilot-operated Check Valve – what’s the difference?
When managing the downward movement of a load, counterbalance valves work more smoothly than pilot-operated check valves and offer a leak-free seal. The pilot check valve is not as smooth as it may lose the pilot signal when it is opened, resulting in the valve closing abruptly. External pilot-operated check valves don't need constant adjustments whenever you change loads, while counterbalance valves do.
Pilot operated check valves allow an unrestricted flow from the inlet port through the outlet port. Supplying a pilot pressure to the pilot port facilitates flow in the reverse direction. When delivery from the pump catches up with the cylinder, pilot pressure builds, moving the pilot piston and the valve opens. This opening and closing of the pilot piston causes a jerky motion as the pilot signal is disrupted. They are ideal for reliably holding an actuator position in a variety of applications
Counterbalance valves create back pressure at the return line of the actuator to prevent losing control over the load. Counterbalance valves are also used to prevent a loaded cylinder from falling, but their operation is smoother than a pilot-operated check valve. Counterbalance valves are available with either poppet- or spool-type pressure control elements. In order to prevent a loaded cylinder from drifting, a poppet-type valve must be used. Spool-type counterbalance valves may be used as brake valves in hydraulic motor applications, as external brakes are used to prevent loaded motors from rotating. Counterbalance valves automatically regulate the descent of loads and holding equipment steady while lifted, which means they offer a level of safety to workers in the area.
