How Hydraulic Valves in Excavators Ensure Smooth Operation

The Heart of Excavator Hydraulics: Valves in Action

At the core of an excavator's Hydraulic System lies a network of valves designed to manage the direction, pressure, and flow rate of hydraulic fluid. This fluid powers the actuators—cylinders and motors—that control the machine's boom, arm, bucket, and swing movements.

Hydraulic Valves are responsible for:

• Controlling the direction of fluid flow (via directional control valves)

• Regulating pressure to ensure safety and performance (via pressure relief and reducing valves)

• Managing flow rate for precise speed and motion control (via flow control valves)

Without these components functioning accurately and reliably, excavators would lose their responsiveness, power, and operational efficiency.

Why Smooth Operation Matters

Smooth operation in excavators is not just about comfort—it has direct impacts on:

• Operational efficiency: Accurate control means faster cycles and reduced idle times.

• Fuel economy: Less strain on the engine and hydraulic pump results in energy savings.

• Safety: Predictable machine behavior reduces risks to operators and surrounding personnel.

• Component longevity: Reducing hydraulic shocks and pressure spikes extends the life of hoses, cylinders, and other parts.

This is why OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and aftermarket service providers rely heavily on high-performance hydraulic valves that can deliver under tough conditions.

Ningbo Longer Hydraulic Co., Ltd.: Innovating for Precision and Reliability

Founded with a mission to provide durable, precision-engineered hydraulic solutions, Ningbo Longer Hydraulic Co., Ltd. has built a strong reputation for quality and innovation. With a specialization in threaded cartridge valves, proportional valves, and custom hydraulic solutions for construction machinery, Longer Hydraulic serves clients across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.

Our engineering team combines decades of experience with cutting-edge design tools to develop valves that:

• Operate reliably under extreme pressure and temperature conditions

• Offer minimal internal leakage and fast response times

• Are compact and modular, making integration easy in tight installation spaces

One of our best-selling product lines includes solenoid-operated cartridge valves, which provide electronic control of flow and pressure for next-generation excavators using smart hydraulic systems.

Key Types of Hydraulic Valves in Excavators

Let’s break down a few essential valve types used in excavators and how they contribute to smooth operation:

1. Directional Control Valves (DCVs)

These valves control the path of hydraulic fluid within the system, determining which actuator receives power and in what direction. In excavators, DCVs enable the operator to control the boom, dipper, and bucket motions with fine-tuned responsiveness.

2. Pressure Relief Valves

Critical for safety, these valves prevent system overload by limiting maximum pressure. Should a blockage or excessive load occur, the relief valve redirects fluid to the tank, protecting components from damage and avoiding jerky or abrupt movements.

3. Flow Control Valves

These valves regulate the speed of actuators by controlling the flow rate of hydraulic fluid. Smooth acceleration and deceleration of movements such as lifting or swinging are achieved through precise flow regulation.

4. Load Holding and Counterbalance Valves

Especially important for lifting functions, these valves ensure that loads do not drop unintentionally. They also maintain position stability and prevent free-fall conditions, contributing significantly to smooth and safe machine operation.

Advancing Efficiency with Integrated Valve Blocks

In response to evolving customer needs, Ningbo Longer Hydraulic offers integrated hydraulic manifold blocks, combining multiple valve functions into a compact and customizable unit. This not only saves space but also reduces connection points, lowers the risk of leaks, and simplifies assembly.

Our engineering team works closely with OEMs to design bespoke valve blocks optimized for specific excavator models, balancing performance, weight, and cost.

The Future: Electro-Hydraulic Integration

The construction equipment industry is shifting towards electro-hydraulic systems that allow for smart control, automation, and integration with telematics. Longer Hydraulic is actively developing proportional control valves and electronic valve drivers that support this transition.

Our valves are compatible with CAN-bus systems and can be finely tuned via electronic signals, allowing excavators to perform multiple simultaneous actions with high precision—key for tasks like fine grading or precision digging.

Quality Assurance and Global Standards

All products at Ningbo Longer Hydraulic Co., Ltd. undergo stringent quality checks, including:

• Pressure and leakage testing

• Flow characteristic analysis

• Endurance testing under variable loads

We are ISO 9001 certified and comply with international hydraulic component standards such as CETOP and SAE, ensuring our valves meet the demands of global machinery markets.

Final Thoughts

Hydraulic valves might be hidden from sight, but they are central to the reliable and smooth operation of every excavator. From enabling fluid, precise movements to protecting machinery from dangerous pressure surges, these components form the nervous system of construction equipment.

At Ningbo Longer Hydraulic Co., Ltd., we are proud to supply the high-performance valves that drive excavators forward—literally and figuratively. With continuous investment in research, customer collaboration, and advanced manufacturing, we remain committed to being a trusted partner in the global hydraulics industry.

To learn more about our products or to discuss your custom hydraulic valve needs, please contact our team at info@longerhydraulic.com or visit our product catalog online.