The Complete Guide to Hydraulic Proportional Flow Control Valves

Table of Contents

What Are Hydraulic Proportional Flow Control Valves?

Think of a proportional flow control valve as the "smart dimmer switch" of hydraulic systems. Just like a dimmer switch lets you control how bright a light gets, these valves let you control exactly how fast hydraulic oil flows through your system.

The simple definition: A hydraulic proportional flow control valve adjusts fluid flow based on an electrical signal you send to it. Send a small signal, get a little flow. Send a big signal, get lots of flow. Everything in between works too.

Why this matters: Traditional hydraulic valves are either fully open or fully closed - like a regular light switch. Proportional valves give you smooth, precise control - like that dimmer switch. This smooth control means:

Less shock and vibration in your machinery
More precise movement of hydraulic cylinders and motors
Better energy efficiency
Smoother operation overall

The Basic Concept

Here's how it works in simple terms:

Electrical Input: You send an electrical signal (usually 4-20 mA or 0-10V) to the valve
Proportional Response: The valve opens proportionally to that signal
Flow Control: More signal = more flow, less signal = less flow
Smooth Operation: Changes happen gradually, not suddenly

This proportional relationship is what makes these valves so valuable in modern hydraulic systems.

Why They Matter: The Evolution from Simple to Smart Control

The Old Way: Bang-Bang Control

In the past, most hydraulic systems used simple on/off valves (called "bang-bang" control). These valves had two settings:

Fully Open: Maximum flow
Fully Closed: No flow

Problems with bang-bang control:

Sudden pressure spikes when valves opened or closed quickly
Vibration and mechanical stress on equipment
Difficulty achieving precise speeds or positions
Energy waste from constant full-flow operation

The New Way: Proportional Control

Proportional valves changed everything by providing:

Smooth Acceleration: Instead of jerky start-stop motion, machinery moves smoothly from rest to full speed.

Precise Speed Control: You can set exact speeds for different parts of a machine cycle.

Energy Efficiency: The system only uses the flow it needs, when it needs it.

Better Product Quality: Smoother motion means better results in manufacturing processes.

Reduced Maintenance: Less shock and vibration means longer equipment life.

Real-World Impact

Consider an injection molding machine making plastic parts:

Old system: The injection ram moved at full speed or stopped completely, causing defects and wasted material
New system: The ram speed varies smoothly throughout the injection cycle, producing consistent, high-quality parts

This evolution from simple to smart control has made proportional valves essential in modern manufacturing.

How They Work: Inside the Technology

Understanding how proportional flow control valves work helps you choose and use them better. Let's break down the key components:

1. The Proportional Solenoid: The Brain

The proportional solenoid is like the valve's brain. Unlike regular solenoids that are either on or off, proportional solenoids can create different amounts of force based on the electrical signal they receive.

How it works:

Receives electrical signal (current or voltage)
Creates magnetic force proportional to that signal
More signal = more magnetic force
This force moves the valve's internal parts

Key features:

Uses DC power for smooth operation
Often uses PWM (pulse-width modulation) signals around 200 Hz
May include "dither" - tiny vibrations that reduce friction

2. The Spool and Valve Body: The Flow Controller

Inside the valve body sits a precision-machined cylinder called a spool. This spool slides back and forth to control flow.

Spool design features:

Metering notches: Special shapes (V, U, or rectangular) cut into the spool that control how flow changes with spool position
Overlap characteristics: How the spool edges align with ports affects valve response:

Zero overlap: Immediate response, no dead zone
Positive overlap: Small dead zone for better sealing
Negative overlap: Very sensitive, mainly used in servo valves

Flow characteristics:

Linear flow: Flow increases proportionally with spool movement
Progressive flow: Flow increases more at larger openings, giving finer control at low flows

3. Pressure Compensation: Maintaining Consistent Flow

One of the most important features in quality proportional valves is pressure compensation. This system ensures that flow stays constant even when load pressure changes.

The problem without compensation: If you're lifting a heavy load, the back-pressure increases, reducing flow even if the valve opening stays the same.

The solution: A pressure compensator automatically adjusts the pressure drop across the main spool to keep it constant.

Benefits:

Flow depends only on valve signal, not on load
Predictable system behavior
Easier programming and control

4. Feedback Systems: Ensuring Accuracy

Higher-end proportional valves include feedback systems that monitor the actual spool position and compare it to the desired position.

Open-loop valves (no feedback):

Simpler and less expensive
Less accurate due to friction, temperature changes, and wear
Suitable for basic applications

Closed-loop valves (with feedback):

Use sensors like LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer)
Continuously adjust to maintain exact spool position
Much more accurate and repeatable
Better for precision applications

Types of Proportional Flow Control Valves

Proportional valves come in several configurations. Understanding these types helps you choose the right one for your application.

By Drive Mechanism

Direct-Acting Valves

The solenoid directly moves the spool
Advantages: Fast response (5-10 milliseconds), compact size, simple design
Limitations: Limited to smaller flows (<50 L/min) and pressures (<210 bar)
Best for: Small systems, medical devices, pilot stages for larger valves

Pilot-Operated Valves (Two-Stage)

A small pilot valve controls oil flow to move the main spool
Advantages: Can handle high flows (up to 1600 L/min) and pressures (up to 350 bar)
Limitations: Slower response (~100 ms)
Best for: Heavy machinery, large industrial systems, high-power applications

By Function

Flow Control Valves

Primary job is controlling flow rate
Usually 2-way or 3-way configurations
Often include pressure compensation
Control actuator speed

Directional Control Valves

Control both flow and direction
Typically 4-way, 3-position valves
Replace multiple simple valves
Control cylinder or motor direction and speed

Pressure Control Valves

Control system pressure rather than flow
Include relief valves and pressure reducing valves
Maintain safe operating pressures

By Construction

Spool-in-Body Design

Spool fits directly in valve body
More economical
Good contamination tolerance
Suitable for most applications

Spool-in-Sleeve Design

Spool fits in a replaceable sleeve
Higher precision
Better for servo-grade performance
More expensive

Mounting Options

Cartridge valves: Screw into manifolds, compact, fewer leak points
Subplate-mounted: Bolt to standard subplates, easy to replace, standardized connections

Proportional vs. Other Valve Types

Understanding how proportional valves compare to other technologies helps you make better decisions.

Proportional vs. On/Off Valves

Feature	On/Off Valves	Proportional Valves
Control Type	Binary (open/closed)	Continuous (variable)
Flow Control	Full flow or no flow	Any flow from 0-100%
System Shock	High (sudden changes)	Low (smooth transitions)
Energy Use	Often wasteful	Efficient (match demand)
Complexity	Simple circuits	More complex electronics
Cost	Low initial cost	Higher initial cost
Applications	Simple on/off functions	Precise speed/position control

Proportional vs. Servo Valves

Feature	Proportional Valves	Servo Valves
Accuracy	Good (±2-5%)	Excellent (±0.5%)
Response Speed	Moderate (2-50 Hz)	Very fast (>100 Hz)
Cost	Moderate	High (10-20x more)
Contamination Tolerance	High	Low (needs very clean oil)
Complexity	Moderate	High
Maintenance	Standard	Specialized
Applications	Industrial automation	Aerospace, testing, high-precision

When to Choose Each Type

Choose On/Off Valves when:

You only need simple open/closed control
Cost is the primary concern
The application can tolerate shock and vibration
Precise control isn't required

Choose Proportional Valves when:

You need variable speed or position control
Smooth operation is important
Energy efficiency matters
Moderate precision is sufficient
Working in typical industrial environments

Choose Servo Valves when:

Ultra-high precision is required
Very fast response is needed
Cost is secondary to performance
You can maintain very clean hydraulic fluid
Application demands it (aerospace, testing)

Key Performance Metrics You Need to Know

When selecting a proportional valve, several performance metrics determine how well it will work in your application.

Flow and Pressure Ratings

Maximum Flow Rate

Usually specified at a standard pressure drop (like 5 bar or 70 psi)
Typical ranges: 7-1000 L/min (2-260 GPM)
Choose based on your actuator speed requirements

Maximum Pressure

Safe operating pressure limit
Typical ranges: 280-400 bar (4000-5800 psi)
Must exceed your system's maximum pressure

Pressure Drop

Pressure lost across the valve at rated flow
Lower is better for efficiency
Typical: 5-35 bar (70-500 psi) at rated flow

Accuracy and Repeatability

Hysteresis

Output difference when approaching the same point from different directions
Typical: 2-5% of full scale
Lower is better for precision applications

Linearity

How closely the valve's flow follows the input signal
Typical: ±2% of full scale
Linear valves are easier to control

Repeatability

Consistency when returning to the same input signal
Typical: ±1-3% of full scale
Important for consistent production

Deadband

Range of input signal that produces no output
Typical: 2-5% of full signal range
Caused by spool overlap, necessary for sealing

Dynamic Performance

Step Response Time

Time to reach 90% of final output after a step input
Direct-acting: 10-20 milliseconds
Pilot-operated: 50-150 milliseconds
Faster is better for dynamic applications

Frequency Response

How well the valve follows rapidly changing signals
Usually specified as bandwidth at -3dB
Typical: 2-50 Hz
Higher bandwidth allows faster control

Operational Requirements

Power Consumption

Electrical power needed by the solenoid
Typical: 15-40 watts
Affects amplifier and power supply sizing

Fluid Cleanliness

Required oil cleanliness level (ISO 4406 standard)
Typical requirement: 18/16/13 or better
Cleaner oil = better valve life and performance

Operating Temperature

Temperature range for proper operation
Typical: -20°C to +80°C (-4°F to +176°F)
Must match your application environment

Performance Comparison Table

Valve Type	Flow Range	Pressure	Response Time	Hysteresis	Contamination Tolerance	Relative Cost
Basic Proportional	7-100 L/min	Up to 280 bar	20-100 ms	3-5%	High	2-4x
Closed-Loop Proportional	7-1000 L/min	Up to 350 bar	10-50 ms	1-2%	High	4-8x
Servo-Proportional	10-500 L/min	Up to 350 bar	5-20 ms	<1%	Moderate	8-15x
True Servo	5-200 L/min	Up to 350 bar	2-10 ms	<0.5%	Low	15-30x

Where They're Used: Real-World Applications

Proportional flow control valves are essential in many industries. Here are the key applications:

Industrial Manufacturing

Injection Molding

Application: Controls injection speed, holding pressure, and screw rotation
Benefits: Consistent part quality, reduced defects, energy savings
Typical requirements: Fast response, high repeatability, moderate flow rates
Example: Producing medical devices requires precise pressure profiles throughout the molding cycle

Hydraulic Presses

Application: Controls ram speed, pressure buildup, and synchronized motion
Benefits: Precise forming, reduced material waste, consistent results
Typical requirements: High pressure capability, smooth speed control
Example: Sheet metal forming requires different speeds for approach, forming, and retraction

CNC Machine Tools

Application: Controls tool clamping, workpiece positioning, and coolant flow
Benefits: Improved surface finish, longer tool life, automated operation
Typical requirements: High precision, good repeatability, integration with CNC controls

Mobile Equipment

Construction Machinery

Application: Controls boom, arm, bucket, and track drive functions in excavators
Benefits: Smooth operation, precise digging, reduced operator fatigue
Typical requirements: Rugged design, wide temperature range, multiple functions
Example: Modern excavators use load-sensing systems with proportional valves for each function

Agricultural Equipment

Application: Controls implements, steering, and auxiliary functions
Benefits: Improved productivity, consistent field operations, automated guidance
Typical requirements: Contamination resistance, reliable operation, simple controls
Example: Combine harvesters use proportional valves for header height and reel speed control

Material Handling

Application: Controls lift, tilt, and auxiliary functions in forklifts and cranes
Benefits: Smooth load handling, precise positioning, improved safety
Typical requirements: Fail-safe operation, smooth control, good visibility

Specialized Applications

Aerospace Systems

Application: Flight control surfaces, landing gear, cargo handling
Benefits: High reliability, precise control, weight optimization
Typical requirements: Extreme reliability, wide temperature range, certified components
Example: Aircraft rudder control requires precise, reliable valve operation

Marine Equipment

Application: Steering systems, winches, stabilizer controls
Benefits: Smooth operation in rough conditions, corrosion resistance
Typical requirements: Saltwater resistance, shock tolerance, reliable operation
Example: Ship steering systems need smooth, responsive control in all weather

Medical Equipment

Application: Patient positioning, surgical tools, rehabilitation equipment
Benefits: Smooth, quiet operation, precise control, patient safety
Typical requirements: Clean operation, low noise, fail-safe design
Example: MRI table positioning requires smooth, non-magnetic operation

Value Propositions by Industry

Manufacturing Focus: Product quality and consistency

Proportional control reduces defects
Repeatable processes improve yield
Energy efficiency reduces operating costs

Mobile Equipment Focus: Operator productivity and fuel efficiency

Smooth operation reduces operator fatigue
Load-sensing systems improve fuel economy
Precise control increases work quality

Specialized Applications Focus: Reliability and performance

High-precision control enables advanced capabilities
Reliable operation in extreme conditions
Integration with sophisticated control systems

Top Manufacturers and Their Products

The proportional valve market includes several major players, each with distinct strengths and product focuses.

Bosch Rexroth - Industrial Focus

Strengths: Comprehensive industrial solutions, high reliability, global support

Key Product Lines:

2FRE Series: Pressure-compensated flow control valves

Flow range: 7-100 L/min
Pressure: Up to 315 bar
Features: LVDT feedback, integral electronics
Applications: Industrial automation, machine tools

4WRE Series: Directional control valves

4-way, 3-position configuration
Flow range: 6-100 L/min
Features: Wet-pin DC solenoids, plug-in electronics
Applications: General industrial, mobile equipment

Typical Applications: Machine tools, industrial presses, automation systems

Parker Hannifin - Versatile Solutions

Strengths: Broad product range, mobile and industrial expertise, system integration

Key Product Lines:

D*1FP Series: Proportional directional valves

Flow range: Up to 227 L/min
Pressure: Up to 350 bar
Features: Multiple feedback options, fieldbus communication
Applications: Mobile equipment, industrial systems

PRP Series: Pressure control valves

Pressure range: 0-350 bar
Features: Pilot-operated design, high flow capacity
Applications: Load holding, pressure regulation

Typical Applications: Construction equipment, material handling, industrial automation

Danfoss Power Solutions - Mobile Specialist

Strengths: Mobile hydraulics expertise, system-level solutions, electronic integration

Key Product Lines:

PVG Series: Modular valve systems

Flow range: 32-100 L/min per section
Features: Load-sensing, CAN bus communication, modular design
Applications: Agricultural, construction, material handling equipment

PVEA/PVEH Series: Electrohydraulic valves

Compact design for mobile applications
Features: Integrated electronics, diagnostic capabilities
Applications: Compact mobile equipment

Typical Applications: Agricultural machinery, construction equipment, material handling

Moog - High-Performance Solutions

Strengths: Aerospace heritage, high-performance applications, servo-grade products

Key Product Lines:

D661/D662 Series: High-response directional valves

Flow range: 10-1000 L/min
Features: Servo-grade performance, multiple feedback options
Applications: Aerospace, test stands, precision manufacturing

D634 Series: Flow control valves

Features: Fast response, high accuracy
Applications: Injection molding, precision manufacturing

Typical Applications: Aerospace systems, test equipment, high-precision manufacturing

Eaton (Now Part of Danfoss) - Innovation Focus

Strengths: Advanced electronics, customization, high integration

Key Product Lines:

AxisPro Series: Smart valve solutions

Features: Advanced diagnostics, programmable characteristics
Applications: Mobile equipment requiring high integration

Note: Following Danfoss's acquisition of Eaton's hydraulics division, these products are being integrated into Danfoss's portfolio.

Market Trends and Consolidation

Industry Consolidation:

Major acquisitions (Danfoss acquiring Eaton) create more comprehensive portfolios
Smaller specialists being acquired by larger companies
Focus on system solutions rather than individual components

Technology Trends:

Integration of electronics and hydraulics
Digital communication capabilities (CAN bus, Ethernet)
Advanced diagnostics and condition monitoring
Reduced power consumption and improved efficiency

Geographic Presence:

All major manufacturers have global presence
Regional manufacturing for cost optimization
Local technical support and service networks

Selection Considerations by Manufacturer

Choose Bosch Rexroth when:

Industrial applications are primary focus
Need proven, reliable solutions
Global support is important
Standard solutions meet requirements

Choose Parker when:

Need versatility across mobile and industrial
System integration is important
Custom solutions may be needed
North American presence is advantageous

Choose Danfoss when:

Mobile applications are primary focus
Need complete system solutions
Electronic integration is critical
Load-sensing systems are used

Choose Moog when:

High performance is essential
Aerospace/defense applications
Willing to pay premium for capability
Need servo-grade performance

The Future: Smart Valves and Industry 4.0

The hydraulic industry is undergoing a digital transformation. Proportional valves are becoming smarter, more connected, and more efficient.

Smart Valve Technology

Integrated Sensors

Built-in pressure, flow, and temperature sensors
Continuous monitoring of valve performance
Real-time data collection and transmission
Early warning of maintenance needs

Advanced Electronics

More powerful microprocessors in valve controllers
Sophisticated control algorithms
Self-calibration and adaptation capabilities
Multiple communication protocols

Benefits:

Better system performance
Reduced maintenance costs
Improved energy efficiency
Enhanced troubleshooting capabilities

Internet of Things (IoT) Integration

Connectivity Features:

Wireless communication capabilities
Cloud-based data storage and analysis
Remote monitoring and control
Integration with enterprise systems

Data Analytics:

Machine learning algorithms for predictive maintenance
Performance optimization based on usage patterns
Energy consumption analysis and optimization
Quality improvement through data-driven insights

Real-World Example: A smart injection molding machine uses IoT-connected proportional valves to:

Monitor injection pressure patterns
Predict when valve maintenance is needed
Automatically adjust parameters for optimal part quality
Send alerts to maintenance staff before problems occur

Predictive Maintenance

Traditional Approach: Scheduled maintenance based on time or operating hours

Often results in unnecessary maintenance
May miss developing problems
Higher overall costs

Predictive Approach: Maintenance based on actual condition

Continuous monitoring of valve performance
AI algorithms identify degradation patterns
Maintenance scheduled only when needed
Potential failure prediction 200+ hours in advance

Key Indicators Monitored:

Hysteresis changes indicating wear
Response time degradation
Internal leakage increases
Electrical current variations
Temperature anomalies

Digital Twin Technology

Concept: Virtual models of physical valves and systems

Real-time synchronization with actual equipment
Simulation capabilities for testing and optimization
Historical data analysis and trending
What-if scenario analysis

Applications:

System design optimization
Operator training without equipment risk
Control algorithm development and testing
Lifecycle cost analysis

Benefits:

Faster commissioning of new systems
Improved system performance
Reduced risk in system changes
Better understanding of system behavior

Energy Efficiency Improvements

Advanced Control Algorithms:

Adaptive control based on load conditions
Energy-optimized valve positioning
Integration with variable-speed pumps
Power-on-demand operation

Improved Design:

Lower internal leakage
Reduced solenoid power consumption
Better pressure compensation systems
Integration with energy recovery systems

System-Level Optimization:

Coordination between multiple valves
Load-sensing improvements
Waste heat recovery
Overall system efficiency monitoring

New Business Models

Servitization: Shift from selling products to selling outcomes

"Uptime as a Service" contracts
Performance-based agreements
Remote monitoring and maintenance included
Risk transfer from customer to supplier

Subscription Models:

Pay-per-use pricing
Continuous updates and improvements
Bundled services including training and support
Access to latest technology without large capital investment

Implications for Users:

Lower initial costs but ongoing payments
Access to latest technology
Reduced maintenance burden
Predictable operating costs

Challenges and Considerations

Cybersecurity:

Connected valves create new security risks
Need for secure communication protocols
Protection against cyberattacks
Data privacy concerns

Complexity:

More sophisticated systems require specialized knowledge
Training requirements for maintenance staff
Integration challenges with existing systems
Dependency on software and electronics

Cost Considerations:

Higher initial investment in smart technology
Ongoing software licensing costs
Need for IT infrastructure
Return on investment may take time

Preparing for the Future

For System Designers:

Plan for connectivity in new systems
Consider data infrastructure requirements
Design for remote access and monitoring
Include cybersecurity measures from the start

For Maintenance Teams:

Develop data analysis capabilities
Invest in predictive maintenance training
Update tools and procedures
Collaborate more closely with IT departments

For Management:

Develop digital transformation strategy
Invest in staff training and development
Consider new business model opportunities
Plan for gradual technology adoption

How to Choose the Right Valve

Selecting the right proportional flow control valve requires careful consideration of your application requirements, performance needs, and budget constraints.

Step 1: Define Your Application Requirements

Flow Requirements

Maximum flow rate needed
Flow range (minimum to maximum)
Typical operating flow
Number of actuators to control

Pressure Requirements

Maximum system pressure
Typical operating pressure
Pressure drop limitations
Safety factor requirements

Environmental Conditions

Operating temperature range
Ambient conditions
Contamination levels expected
Fluid type and viscosity

Performance Needs

Required accuracy and repeatability
Response time requirements
Control bandwidth needed
Integration with existing systems

Step 2: Determine Valve Type

Direct-Acting vs. Pilot-Operated

Choose Direct-Acting when:

Flow requirements are moderate (<50 L/min)
Fast response is critical (ms response times)
System is relatively clean
Cost is a consideration
Space is limited

Choose Pilot-Operated when:

High flow rates are needed (>100 L/min)
Working with high pressures
Moderate response time is acceptable
System can accommodate larger valves
Higher power requirements are acceptable

Open-Loop vs. Closed-Loop

Choose Open-Loop when:

Moderate accuracy is sufficient (±3-5%)
Cost is primary concern
Application doesn't require high repeatability
Environmental conditions are stable
Simple control system is preferred

Choose Closed-Loop when:

High accuracy is required (±1-2%)
Excellent repeatability is needed
System conditions vary significantly
Integration with sophisticated controls
Performance justifies higher cost

Step 3: Evaluate Performance Specifications

Critical Specifications to Compare:

Specification	Importance	Typical Requirements
Flow Range	High	Must meet actuator requirements
Pressure Rating	High	Must exceed system maximum
Response Time	Medium-High	Depends on application dynamics
Hysteresis	Medium	<3% for most applications
Linearity	Medium	±2% is usually acceptable
Power Consumption	Low-Medium	Affects amplifier sizing
Temperature Range	Medium	Must match environment

Performance Comparison Process:

List all candidate valves that meet basic requirements
Create comparison table of key specifications
Evaluate trade-offs (performance vs. cost)
Consider long-term factors (maintenance, support)

Step 4: Consider Integration Factors

Electrical Interface

Input signal type (4-20mA, 0-10V, etc.)
Power supply requirements
Amplifier compatibility
Communication protocols needed

Mechanical Interface

Mounting configuration (subplate, cartridge, etc.)
Port sizes and locations
Overall dimensions and weight
Maintenance access requirements

System Compatibility

Hydraulic circuit integration
Control system compatibility
Diagnostic and monitoring needs
Future expansion considerations

Step 5: Evaluate Manufacturers

Key Evaluation Criteria:

Technical Support

Local engineering support availability
Application assistance quality
Technical documentation completeness
Training programs offered

Product Quality

Reliability track record
Quality certifications
Testing and validation procedures
Warranty terms

Commercial Factors

Pricing competitiveness
Delivery lead times
Distribution network
Service and repair capabilities

Future Considerations

Product development roadmap
Technology advancement commitment
Long-term product support
Upgrade path availability

Step 6: Total Cost of Ownership Analysis

Initial Costs

Valve purchase price
Associated electronics (amplifiers, controllers)
Installation and commissioning
Training and documentation

Operating Costs

Energy consumption
Maintenance requirements
Spare parts availability and cost
Downtime costs

Long-term Costs

Technology obsolescence risk
Upgrade and expansion costs
End-of-life disposal
Opportunity costs of performance limitations

Common Selection Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Specification

Choosing higher performance than needed
Paying for unused capabilities
Adding unnecessary complexity

Under-Specification

Insufficient flow or pressure capability
Inadequate performance for application needs
Poor long-term scalability

Focusing Only on Initial Cost

Ignoring total cost of ownership
Choosing unreliable low-cost options
Inadequate technical support

Ignoring Integration Issues

Incompatible interfaces
Difficult maintenance access
Poor fit with existing systems

Practical Selection Example

Application: CNC machining center tool clamping system

Requirements:

Flow: 15 L/min maximum
Pressure: Up to 250 bar
Response: <50 ms step response
Accuracy: ±2% for consistent clamping force
Environment: Machine tool (moderate contamination, temperature controlled)

Analysis:

Valve Type: Direct-acting (moderate flow, fast response needed)
Control: Closed-loop (accuracy requirement)
Candidates: Bosch Rexroth 2FRE-16, Parker D*1FP, Moog D634

Selection Criteria Weighting:

Performance (40%): All candidates meet requirements
Cost (25%): Parker most economical
Support (20%): Bosch Rexroth has best local support
Integration (15%): All compatible with existing CNC control

Result: Bosch Rexroth 2FRE-16 selected based on superior local support and proven machine tool applications, despite slightly higher cost.

Getting Started: Next Steps

Define Requirements Clearly: Document all application requirements before starting valve selection
Contact Manufacturers: Engage with technical sales representatives for application guidance
Request Samples: Consider testing critical valves before final selection
Plan Integration: Work with system integrators for complex applications
Prepare for Implementation: Ensure proper installation, commissioning, and training