// Catalogue

One-Way Flow Control Valves for Controlling Speed in One Direction

One-way flow control valves combine an adjustable throttle and a check valve in one body, so flow is slowed in one direction and passes freely in the other. TSA Hydraulics Engineering supplies them within the Pressure & Flow family of our Valves range, for hydraulic and pneumatic circuits.

Fit one backwards and it slows the wrong stroke. The arrow on the body shows the controlled direction, and it is easy to miss when swapping a valve in a tight spot. Before you order, note which stroke the old valve slowed, plus its thread and size. We will match a genuine valve or a matched equivalent.

// Buying guide

How a One-Way Flow Control Valve Works

Inside are two paths, side by side:

The throttle: an adjustable needle or orifice that restricts flow.
The check valve: a spring loaded ball or poppet that opens in one direction only.

In the free direction, oil or air pushes the check valve open and flows straight through. In the controlled direction, the check valve closes, so everything must pass through the throttle.

Which Way Round?

Most valves show an arrow or symbol for the controlled direction. For meter out control, fit the valve so it restricts the flow leaving the cylinder. For meter in control, fit it so it restricts the flow going in. If the cylinder moves too fast on the stroke you meant to slow, the valve is probably the wrong way round.

Common Uses

Slowing a press or lifting platform as it lowers, while letting it rise at full speed
Giving a gentle extend stroke with a fast return
Setting a different speed for each direction, by fitting one valve in each line
Cushioning the start of a hydraulic motor in one direction

Styles

Inline: threaded ports, fitted straight into a pipe or hose. Simple to retrofit.
Cartridge: screws into a manifold cavity, for compact power units and mobile machines.
Modular: a sandwich valve that stacks under a directional valve, often with a throttle check on both the A and B ports.
Port mounted: pneumatic versions that screw straight into the cylinder, known as speed controllers.

Setting Tips

Start with the throttle nearly closed.
Open it slowly while the actuator cycles, until the speed is right.
Set it with the oil at normal running temperature and under real load.
Lock the adjuster so it cannot drift or be changed by accident.

Know the Limits

A one-way flow control is not compensated. If the load changes during the stroke, or the oil warms up through the day, the speed will change too. For steady speed in changing conditions, a pressure compensated flow control is the better choice.

One-Way Flow Control Valves Specifications to Check

Port size and thread, or cavity and mounting
Flow range and maximum pressure
Controlled direction, and the check valve cracking pressure
Adjustment: knob, screw or lockable
Medium: hydraulic oil or compressed air
Seal material

Why Buy From TSA Hydraulics Engineering

As a one-way flow control valves supplier, we confirm the controlled direction, size and mounting before we quote, so the new valve slows the right stroke. You OEM or equivalent options, and help sourcing one-way flow control valves replacement parts such as cartridges, knobs and seal kits. We tell you upfront whether a valve is genuine or an equivalent.

// FAQs