What is the difference between your accessory valves and others I already use?
Vektek accessory valves are sized for the normal flows and conditions present in hydraulic clamping systems. They are not intended for use in general industrial equipment as they are specifically intended for clamping. Maximum intended flow rate on any Vektek accessory valve is 5.7 L/min. Excessive flows may cause damage or erratic behavior. General industrial products are intended for use in large flow applications (typically 7.6 L/min +). These general industrial products do not normally work well in clamping systems.
What is the function of a pressure limiting valve relative to a pressure relief valve?
Pressure reducing valves limit the pressure that can pass through the valve. The valve remains open and fluid flows freely to downstream devices until the pressure in the valve reaches the pressure (adjustable) set-point. At the set-point pressure, the valve closes blocking further flow and pressure rise to the downstream devices. If there is sufficient down stream pressure loss, the PRV will re-open and allow flow to pass through the valve until the pressure returns to the valve set-point.
Pressure relief valves (sometimes known as pressureregulating valves) are intended to guard against excess pressure. When a circuit builds beyond the setting of a pressure relief valve, it opens and excess fluid is returned to tank through a return line. If a relief valve is set below the pressure adjustment of a pump, the pump will kick on and off frequently. Incorrect adjustment of a pressure relief valve can cause expensive damage to your pump.
Explain why you don't want me to put a group of sequence valves in series.
When a group of sequence valves is put in sequence they have to work harder than if they are fed parallel from a single main feed line (see illustration at right ). If they are stacked in a series, each modulates trying to maintain pressure while feeding downstream valves. This will cause premature wear. Many "series" sequence valves are in a parallel circuit stacked side by side. You may put as many sequence valves in parallel as you wish. We recommend approximately 35 bar (3.5 MPa) difference in their settings.
What is the difference between your ball valve and the "screw down" valves I can buy locally?
Our ball valves shut off a circuit and maintain that seal until rotated and pressure is released later. They are intended for applications that will not allow for leakage or are repetitive. They change from closed to full open with 1/4 turn of the handle.