Pilottryck

Pilottryck refers to the pressure in a pilot line used to actuate a pilot valve that controls a larger main valve in hydraulic or pneumatic systems. It functions as a control pressure rather than the load-bearing pressure of the system.

In a pilot-operated valve arrangement, the pilot valve responds to the pilot pressure. When the pilot pressure rises above a threshold, the pilot valve shifts, allowing the main valve to open or close and thus modulate the main circuit’s pressure or flow. When the pilot pressure falls, a spring or secondary feedback returns the valve to its original state, restoring the initial condition of the main valve.

Measurement and ranges vary with the application. Pilot pressure is typically measured in bar or psi on the pilot circuit. The actual values depend on the system design and requirements; some applications use only a few bar, while others employ higher pilot pressures to achieve faster or more precise control. The pilot pressure is often generated by a small pump, a dedicated pilot valve, or a feedback control loop.

Applications are widespread in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including pilot-operated relief valves, directional control valves, hydraulic cylinders, and other actuators. In practice, the pilot pressure enables high main-system pressures to be controlled by relatively small actuators, enabling remote operation and faster response times.

Considerations include the potential for line leaks, contamination, and pressure spikes in the pilot circuit. Proper filtration, damping, and routing are important to maintain stable operation.

See also: pilot-operated valve, hydraulic valve, relief valve, servo valve, check valve.