FAQS
How long do hydraulic valves last?
Quality hydraulic valves generally last 5–10 years or more with proper maintenance. Lifespan depends primarily on fluid cleanliness, pressure cycles, and operating conditions.
What maintenance do hydraulic valves need?
Minimal maintenance—mainly ensuring clean fluid, regularly checking for leaks, and verifying valve operation. Replace filters and fluid on schedule to prevent contamination.
How do I choose the right hydraulic valve?
Choose valves based on their type (directional, pressure control, flow control), pressure rating, flow capacity, fluid compatibility, mounting style, and actuation method (manual, electric, hydraulic pilot).
What causes hydraulic valves to leak or fail?
Contaminated fluid is the main cause of valve failure. Other reasons include worn seals, incorrect installation, or using a valve with inadequate pressure or flow ratings.
What are common installation tips for hydraulic valves?
Ensure cleanliness during installation, use new O-rings lubricated with hydraulic fluid, tighten fittings to manufacturer specs, check valve orientation carefully, and test thoroughly after installation.
What are Hallite seals?
Hallite seals are hydraulic and pneumatic sealing products manufactured by Hallite Seals International, a well-known global brand in the sealing industry. They are used extensively in hydraulic cylinders, pumps, and other fluid-power applications to control leakage, exclude contaminants, and maintain system pressure. While many manufacturers claim they use Hallite they are mostly copies.
What should I set my relief valve at in my hydraulic system?
You should set the relief just above your true maximum working pressure—but below the rating of the weakest component. A common starting rule is to set 10–15% above the maximum pressure required to complete the job, then fine-tune under warm oil, full-flow conditions. And if possible, make sure your system has either a pressure gauge or a test point.
What are OCVs and what pressure should they be set at?
“OCV” in hydraulics usually means an Over-Centre Valve (sometimes also called a counterbalance valve). They are used mainly on hydraulic cylinders or motors that are subject to overrunning loads (where the load tries to run away faster than the pump is feeding oil).
How to set the cracking pressure
The OCV’s “spring setting” (or cracking pressure) is set relative to the load-induced pressure on the actuator.
Typical rule of thumb:
Set at 1.3 – 1.5 × the maximum load-induced pressure (sometimes up to 1.8× if more damping is needed).
Example – Cylinder
- A boom cylinder has a load-induced pressure of 150 bar (from gravity pulling on the boom).
- OCV cracking pressure = 1.3 × 150 = 195 bar.
- This means the valve won’t allow the boom to lower until pilot pressure from the directional valve combines with the load pressure to open it.