Explain the working of counter balance valve in hydraulic circuit.
Counter Balance Valve It is basically a relief valve but it is used to set up a back pressure in a circuit to prevent load from falling. They are frequently employed in vertical presses, loaders, lift trucks and other machines that must maintain a particular position or hold a suspended load. In such applications, the counterbalance valve creates a back pressure to prevent the movement of piston rod of cylinder
Figure shows a typical counterbalance valve. At the present pressure (due to load) acting at port A, the valve remains closed under the spring force. The fluid in the port A is trapped thereby prevents the movement of the load. When the pressure in the port A increases beyond certain value, it acts on the spool from downward direction. The spool moves against the spring force and provides the passage for the fluid to tank. This allows descending of the load. As this valve gets actuated line pressure, it is known as direct operated counterbalance valve.