Here at HydraForce our Technical Services department typically receives multiple question daily regarding our Proportional Valves. Common questions include, "What is the proper dither frequency for a particular proportional valve?' and "What coil should I use with this type of system?". Following these five simple rules when applying proportional valves will prevent field failures, reduce valve instability, and ensure that your system performs as desired without having to reach out to a tech service representative.
1. Applying dither to a valve reduces actuator friction and reduces hysteresis. A good rule of thumb is to use 70 -250 Hz dither frequency on all SP, ZL, and PV valves (flow and directional control valves), and 200-300 Hz dither frequency on TS Valves (proportional pressure control valves). Otherwise, at lower frequencies the actuator will follow the dither signal and the valve output will appear unstable.
