A directional control valve is used to _______.

A directional control valve is used to _______.

• A. Change the direction of the fluid
• B. Limit the pressure
• C. Inform the operator of a problem
• D. Start the power unit

Answer: (A)

Directing the flow of hydraulic fluid is what a directional control valve does. By shifting its internal passages, it connects the pump to one work port and the other work port to the tank in one position, and swaps those connections in the other. This change in flow paths determines which side of a cylinder or motor is pressurized, so the actuator moves in one direction in one position and in the opposite direction in the other. Pressure limiting, fault indication, and starting the power unit are handled by other components, not the directional valve.

Directing the flow of hydraulic fluid is what a directional control valve does. By shifting its internal passages, it connects the pump to one work port and the other work port to the tank in one position, and swaps those connections in the other. This change in flow paths determines which side of a cylinder or motor is pressurized, so the actuator moves in one direction in one position and in the opposite direction in the other. Pressure limiting, fault indication, and starting the power unit are handled by other components, not the directional valve.