A Minimum Pressure Valve (MPV), also known as a Minimum Pressure Check Valve or a Pressure Holding Valve, is an automatic, spring-loaded precision valve designed to maintain a pre-set minimum system pressure in a fluid power circuit. Its primary function is to prevent system pressure from falling below a critical threshold, ensuring optimal operation and protection of downstream components.

The MPV acts as a guardian of your hydraulic or pneumatic system. It remains closed until a pre-determined "cracking pressure" is achieved upstream. Once this pressure is reached and surpassed, the valve opens to allow full flow.

Its core purposes are:

• Maintain Load Holding: Prevents loads from dropping uncontrollably in cylinders or hydraulic motors due to pressure loss.
• Ensure Pump Lubrication: Keeps adequate pressure on lubricated pumps to prevent damage from running dry.
• Avoid Cavitation: Prevents the formation of vacuum conditions that can cause cavitation in pumps and actuators.
• Sequencing: Ensures that certain actuators in a circuit do not operate until minimum system pressure is available.
• Pressure Safety: Acts as a safety device to guarantee a baseline pressure for critical system functions.

1. Closed Position (Below Set Pressure): A spring force holds the valve poppet firmly closed against its seat.
2. Cracking Pressure (Opening): When upstream pressure overcomes the spring force, the poppet lifts off its seat.
3. Fully Open (Normal Operation): At operating pressures above the set point, the valve remains fully open.
4. Re-closing: If upstream pressure drops, the spring force pushes the poppet back onto its seat.

• Pressure Rating: Up to 5,000 PSI (350 bar) and higher
• Setting Range: Typically adjustable from 50 to 500 PSI (3.5 to 35 bar)
• Port Sizes: Common from SAE #4 to #12 (e.g., 1/2" to 1-1/2" NPT)
• Fluid Compatibility: Mineral-based hydraulic oil, synthetic fluids, water-glycol
• Temperature Range: Standard seals from -20°C to 100°C (-4°F to 212°F)

• Mobile Machinery: Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, telehandlers, and forklifts
• Industrial Machinery: Injection molding machines, presses, stamping presses
• Pump Outlets: Mounted directly on the outlet of piston pumps, vane pumps
• Hydraulic Circuits: In winch, brake, and motor circuits
• Test Rigs: To maintain baseline pressure in complex test circuits

• Superior Reliability: Hardened steel poppet and seat for perfect seal
• Easy Adjustment & Installation: Externally accessible adjustment screw
• Proven Performance: Rigorously tested under real-world conditions
• Global Support & Availability: Worldwide technical support network

To select the correct Minimum Pressure Valve for your application, please have the following information ready:

• Required Set Pressure Range (e.g., 150-200 PSI)
• Maximum System Flow (GPM or LPM)
• Maximum System Pressure (PSI or bar)
• Port Size & Type (e.g., SAE 10, 1" NPTF)
• Fluid Type & Temperature

Contact our engineering support team today for assistance in selecting the perfect MPV for your system.