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Electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves

Electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves

A directional control valve is used to change, open or block the flow of a medium in a pneumatic system. Compressed air is the fluid that is normally used in pneumatic actuators. The valves differ in terms of the design of their control element, the number of switching positions and flow paths as well as the type of actuation. There are mechanically, pneumatically or electrically operated directional control valves.

Function of directional control valves

Directional control valves are used to block, open or change the flow of a medium. Directional control valves have, for example, a supply port and several exhaust ports as their working outputs. The designation of the valves, for example 3/2- or 5/3-way valve, is based on the number of ports and switching positions.

Directional control valves need to ensure that the compressed air or hydraulic fluid in the valve is:

  • released
  • blocked
  • changed

Electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves

As an driver of innovation in pneumatics, Festo offers a wide range of proportional valves and directional control valves. This will allow you to implement even the most complex of applications reliably and easily. Discover our portfolio of pneumatically and electrically actuated valves now, from extremely compact valves for tight installation spaces to extremely sturdy ones for harsh environments.

Standards-based directional control valves

Electric or pneumatic directional control valves can be used to control actuators. Mechanically actuated valves can be actuated using 12, 24, 110 and 230 V. Common variants are, for example, 3/2- or 5/3-way valves. Mechanically operated directional control valves are switched by a button, a lever, a pedal or a spring, for example. Pneumatic valves, on the other hand, are actuated by compressed air.

Standards-based directional control valves from Festo are available with electric or pneumatic actuation.

Standards-based directional control valves

Universal directional control valves

Solenoid-operated directional control valves from Festo use the force of electromagnets to open and close valves. In this case, the solenoid is used as a control module that "opens" or "closes" the medium within a line (NC/NO). When an electrical current is applied to the solenoid, the valve is actuated and, depending on the control type, operates as either a directly, a servo-controlled or force pilot operated valve.

Universal directional control valves

Proposed products from the Festo Core Range:

Application-specific directional control valves

The Festo product range of application-specific directional control valves extends from compact solenoid valves to pilot valves, which are used when valve terminals are not technically or economically feasible.

Application-specific directional control valves

FAQs – frequently asked questions clearly answered

What is the purpose of directional control valves?

A directional control valve is used to change, open or close the flow of a medium in a hydraulic or pneumatic system. Compressed air or a hydraulic fluid is the fluid that is normally used. The task of a directional control valve is thus to release, change or block cross-sections in the valve for the liquid or gas (fluid).

What is a 3/2-way valve?

Directional control valves differ in terms of the number of ports and switching positions. A 3/2-way valve is used to switch a single-acting actuator, for example to switch a media flow and relieve the secondary side when the valve closes.

Festo 3/2-way valves are available in normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) positions.

Which electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves does Festo offer?

Festo offers a wide range of electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves for industrial automation. Our range includes standards-based valves as well as universal valves and application-specific directional control valves.