Proportional pressure reducing valves

Engineers from Thomas Magnete have designed pilot valves that work with electrohydraulics to simplify complex machine control systems.

Many of today's mobile machines are operated via electrohydraulics (EH), coinciding with the x-by-wire trend that simplifies and optimizes vehicle performance. This technology also allows for a decentralized system with optimized design, enabling valves to be mounted where they are needed instead of only where they can be operated mechanically. With the addition of software, it is possible to design vehicles with start-stop ramps, force limitations, and operating speeds that are proportional to the working loads. Digital technology such as CAN bus reduces the number of wires encircling the machine, allowing control commands to be tapped off where they are needed. Some system components available with CAN capabilities include sensors, joysticks, and controllers.

Besides those mentioned above, other advantages of EH systems include proportional and/or on-off control capabilities, multi-tasking functions via microprocessor control (e.g., return to dig or lift), easy integration of the EH system into the equipment, and reduced overall system cost compared to a mechanically controlled system.