Hydraulic selector valve

Hydraulic selector valve

- Categories : Hydraulic Master blog

Hydraulic selector valve

Hydraulic selector valve, or divider valve, is element that controls the direction of flow of the compressed air stream.  Hydraulic selector valve allows the flow paths to be connected or separated.

Hydraulic selector valve can be divided into groups due to their functions. 

Stands out:

  • ordinary (conventional) hydraulic selector valves, which are used to control the flow direction

  • proportional directional valves, which additionally act as flow control valves

  • proportional directional valves, which additionally act as pressure control valves

  • servo distributors, which are electrically controlled pneumatic amplifiers and enable the implementation of control systems.


Hydraulic selector valve is used to control the direction of movement of a hydraulic cylinder or similar device. Provides simultaneous flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the machine.

Hydraulic selector valves can be divided into groups, due to the control variants, or more precisely the way to obtain individual positions of the main control element. 

Distinguishes:

  • directional control valves (single stages)

  • indirectly (two-stage), which are equipped with their own support system

In addition, you can distinguish:

  • valves maintaining the controlled position after cutting off the control signal (bistable valves)

  • valves returning to their original position after subtracting the control signal (monostable valves).

Due to the power supply method, it is possible to distinguish between wired and wireless power distributors - for subplate mounting. Due to the design solution, the distribution valves can be divided into on: poppet, slide, and solenoid-operated valves.

A selector valve (splitter) is used in hydraulic systems to direct fluid flow. The diverting valve directs the fluid under pressure to the desired operating port of the actuator. At the same time, it directs the return fluid from the opposite port of the actuator to the tank.

In the hydraulic system, pressure can be directed to the valve via a selector. This happens to control the device in both directions. A suitable fluid return path to the tank is then provided. There is a division of spool valves into two main types, i.e. open and closed. The open middle valve allows a constant flow of hydraulic fluid through the valve - even when the valve is not in the position to start the unit. A closed valve blocks the flow of fluid through the valve when it is in neutral or off.

Remote controlled hydraulic selector valves are usually electromagnetically controlled. A typical four-way spool valve has four ports - a pressure port, a return port, and two cylinder ports.

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