SUN Direction Valve FSCS-XAN Flow Splitting And Combining In Hydraulic Systems

Synchronizing flow divider/combiners are sliding-spool, pressure-compensated devices designed to split flow in one direction and combine flow in the opposite direction. These valves feature a synchronizing capability that enables two hydraulic cylinders to fully stroke and synchronize at the end of the stroke.

When the first cylinder completes its stroke, a pressure-compensated, reduced flow is metered to or from the second cylinder until it also reaches the end of its stroke. All flow divider and divider/combiner cartridges are physically interchangeable within the same frame size.

In dividing mode, operating characteristics cause the circuit leg with the greatest load to receive a higher percentage of flow. In combining mode, compensating characteristics direct more flow to the circuit leg with the lowest load. Without synchronization features, each full actuator stroke will experience additive accuracy errors.

For applications with rigid mechanisms between multiple actuators, operating inaccuracy may cause system lock-up. In motor circuits, rigid frames or synchronized motion mechanisms can lead to cavitation, lock-up, or pressure intensification.