The compact Electric Sectional Valve from Buyers Products features a compact design. Its electrical controls allow you to mount a switch in the cab and control the valve remotely. It's great for smaller trucks and plow trucks. The 12V valve is rated to a max flow of 11 GPM. It features a simple on/off (non-proportional) flow. It can handle a maximum rating of 4300 PSI when the main relief is set at a higher pressure. The main relief is adjustable from 1300 to 3000 PSI (factory preset at 2150 PSI ). Two additional adjustable port reliefs -- angle and dump -- are available to provide protection for the specific job. The valve has cylinder spools, and features load hold check in the neutral position, precision-machined and ground spools, and easily replaceable spool end seals. Additional configurations are available. Please contact Customer Service for further information.
Specifications
| Amps per Coil | 2.5 |
|---|---|
| Coil Voltage | 12 |
| Electrically Operated (y/n) | Yes |
| Inlet Port Size | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
| Main Relief Setting | 1300-3000 (Set at 2150) |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 11 |
| Maximum Pressure | 3600 |
| Number of spools | 1 |
| Out Port Size | #8 |
| Outlet Port Size | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
| Port Relief Angle | 1900-4300 (Set at 2150) |
| Port Relief Dump | 400-1900 (Set at 600) |
| Port reliefs ( Y/N) | No |
| Port Type | SAE |
| Power Beyond (y/n) | No |
| Relief (Y/N) | Yes |
| Spool Action 1 | Power Up/Gravity Down |
| Work Port Size | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
The Electric Sectional Valve 3-Way from Buyers Products represents a state-of-the-art solution for precise and reliable hydraulic control in demanding mobile applications. Engineered with a focus on compactness, robust performance, and remote operational capability, this valve is ideally suited for integration into systems requiring the efficient control of single-acting hydraulic cylinders. Its specialized design caters to the rigorous demands of smaller utility trucks and, notably, snowplow operations, where responsive and protected hydraulic functions are paramount for safe and effective material handling.
At its core, this unit is an electrically actuated directional control valve, featuring a single spool configured for 3-way functionality. In the context of mobile hydraulics, a 3-way valve typically manages flow between a pressure source (P), a tank return (T), and a single work port (A). This specific configuration is optimized for controlling single-acting cylinders, which extend under hydraulic pressure and retract via gravity or an external load. The specified "Power Up/Gravity Down" spool action confirms this functionality, ensuring controlled extension and unhindered, gravity-assisted retraction. This mechanism provides a straightforward yet effective means of operating critical functions such as lifting, angling, or dumping, common in a variety of service vehicles.
The integration of electrical controls is a defining feature, elevating operational convenience and safety. Traditional hydraulic valves often require direct mechanical linkages or pilot lines, which can complicate installation, increase cab noise, and limit mounting flexibility. By contrast, the Electric Sectional Valve utilizes a 12V DC electrical coil to shift the spool, allowing for remote activation. This enables the operator to mount a control switch conveniently within the vehicle's cab, significantly enhancing ergonomics and reducing operator fatigue. The electrical operation ensures swift and decisive spool shifting, providing immediate response to operator commands. With a nominal coil voltage of 12V DC and a current draw of 2.5 Amps per coil, the valve is compatible with standard automotive electrical systems, minimizing the need for complex power conversion and simplifying integration. The non-proportional, on/off flow characteristic means that the valve is either fully open or fully closed, providing robust and unambiguous control suitable for applications where precise speed modulation is not critical, but rather, definitive movement is required. This simplicity contributes to enhanced reliability and ease of troubleshooting.
Performance specifications highlight the valve's capability to manage significant hydraulic demands. It is rated for a maximum continuous operating pressure of 3600 PSI (248 bar), ensuring durability and long-term reliability even under strenuous conditions. The valve’s design incorporates the capacity to handle intermittent peak pressures up to 4300 PSI, particularly important for transient load conditions or when specific port reliefs are set to their maximum limits. This robust pressure rating underscores its suitability for heavy-duty applications. The maximum flow rate of 11 GPM (41.6 LPM) is well-suited for a wide array of mobile hydraulic functions, providing ample fluid delivery for responsive cylinder actuation without excessive heat generation or energy loss. This flow rate translates directly into efficient operation for tasks such as raising a plow, tilting a dump bed, or positioning an auxiliary attachment.
System protection is a critical aspect of hydraulic circuit design, and this valve incorporates multiple layers of safeguarding. A primary adjustable main relief valve is integrated to protect the entire hydraulic system, particularly the pump, from over-pressurization. This relief valve can be adjusted across a wide range, from 1300 PSI (89.6 bar) to 3000 PSI (207 bar), allowing for customization to match specific system requirements and component ratings. From the factory, this main relief is conveniently preset at 2150 PSI (148 bar), offering a balanced and commonly used default setting that protects against common overload scenarios while maintaining sufficient working pressure. The presence of a relief valve is vital for ensuring the longevity of hydraulic components and preventing catastrophic failures.
Beyond the main system relief, this Electric Sectional Valve is further equipped with two independently adjustable port relief valves: one for "angle" and one for "dump." These supplementary relief valves are crucial for protecting specific actuator circuits from external shock loads or internal pressure spikes. In typical plow truck applications, the "angle" relief would safeguard the cylinder responsible for angling the plow blade, preventing damage if the blade encounters an immovable object or experiences sudden impact. Its adjustable range of 1900-4300 PSI (131-296 bar), factory preset at 2150 PSI, allows for fine-tuning to protect the cylinder and structure without unnecessarily tripping. Similarly, the "dump" relief valve protects the cylinder responsible for lifting or tilting a dump body or other articulated implements. Its broader adjustable range of 400-1900 PSI (27.6-131 bar), factory preset at 600 PSI, caters to the distinct pressure profiles often associated with gravity-assisted or lower-pressure dumping operations, preventing damage from impact or sudden shifts in load. The ability to precisely set these port reliefs ensures that specific actuators are protected, even if the main system pressure remains within normal operating limits, significantly extending the lifespan of the hydraulic cylinders and related mechanical linkages.
The meticulous design and manufacturing quality are evident in several key attributes. The valve features precisely machined and ground spools, a hallmark of high-quality hydraulic components. This precision minimizes internal leakage, which is crucial for maintaining system efficiency and preventing heat generation. Reduced leakage translates into more power delivered to the actuator and less energy wasted. The smooth, consistent movement of the spool within its bore ensures reliable operation and a long service life. Furthermore, the inclusion of a load hold check valve in the neutral position is a critical safety and performance feature. This check valve prevents cylinder drift when the valve is de-energized or in its neutral state, ensuring that elevated loads remain securely held without unwanted movement. This is particularly important for applications where holding a load in a specific position for extended periods is necessary, enhancing both operational safety and control.
Maintenance and serviceability have also been considered in the valve's design. The spool end seals are easily replaceable, simplifying routine maintenance and extending the overall operational life of the valve. This feature allows for cost-effective repairs without requiring the replacement of the entire valve body, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership over the product's lifespan.
Connectivity is standardized for ease of integration into existing hydraulic systems. All ports—inlet, outlet, and work ports—are specified as 1/2 SAE ORB (-8). SAE O-Ring Boss (ORB) fittings are widely recognized in the hydraulic industry for their superior sealing capability, resistance to leakage, and ease of assembly. The -8 designation refers to a nominal tube size of 1/2 inch, providing adequate flow paths for the valve's 11 GPM capacity. This common port sizing ensures compatibility with a broad range of hydraulic hoses and fittings, streamlining installation and minimizing the need for specialized adapters.
While specifically highlighted for "smaller trucks and plow trucks," the technical attributes of this Electric Sectional Valve 3-Way make it highly versatile for numerous other mobile hydraulic applications. Its robust design, precise electrical control, and comprehensive pressure protection mechanisms render it suitable for:
- Utility vehicles requiring remote control of single-acting lift gates, cranes, or tool circuits.
- Light construction equipment for controlling tilt functions on loaders or articulating arms.
- Agricultural machinery for operating implements like small plows, cultivators, or spray booms that require simple power-up/gravity-down functionality.
- Material handling equipment such as small forklifts or conveyor systems where reliable, on/off control of lifting mechanisms is essential.
- Forestry equipment for certain auxiliary functions.
- Marine applications for controlling various onboard single-acting actuators.
When integrating this valve into a hydraulic system, careful consideration should be given to proper mounting, ensuring secure attachment to prevent vibration-induced stress on connections. Plumbing should follow best practices for hydraulic systems, using appropriately sized hoses and fittings to minimize pressure drops and prevent fluid contamination. Electrical connections must be robust, properly insulated, and protected from environmental factors to ensure reliable operation of the 12V DC coil. Consideration for system cleanliness is also paramount; utilizing appropriate filtration will extend the life of the valve and other hydraulic components by preventing particulate matter from damaging the precision-machined spool and bore.
In summary, the Electric Sectional Valve 3-Way from Buyers Products delivers a compelling combination of advanced electrical control, robust hydraulic performance, and exceptional protection features within a compact and serviceable design. Its ability to provide precise, remote on/off control for single-acting cylinders, coupled with comprehensive main and port relief protection, makes it an invaluable component for optimizing the functionality and longevity of mobile hydraulic systems. The dedication to quality, from precision-machined spools to replaceable seals and standardized SAE ORB connections, ensures both high operational efficiency and ease of maintenance. This valve represents a strategic investment for any application demanding reliable, electrically controlled hydraulic power, particularly within the demanding environments faced by utility and snow removal vehicles. For specific requirements or system integrations, additional configurations may be available, and customers are encouraged to contact Customer Service for expert guidance and further technical specifications.
