The performance of a hydraulic manifold block.

Hydraulic manifold blocks are highly appreciated in the industrial sector due to their many advantages: reliability, reduced risk of leaks, ease of assembly, space-saving, etc.

What is the expected performance of a hydraulic manifold block?

What criteria should be considered to ensure the quality and reliability of a hydraulic manifold block?

VMF, a European specialist in precision hydraulic manifolds, offers its expertise.

In a hydraulic system, the manifold block function is to make connections between the different elements. The fluid is distributed in the system to feed and operate it. Control and measuring devices can be added directly to the block.

There are two main types of valves: “flanged” valves, which are mounted on a surface of the manifold block, and “integrated” or “cartridge” valves, which fit directly into the machined cavities of the hydraulic block. These valves allow for the control of fluid pressure at the block’s inlets and outlets. There are several types of mechanisms, including manual selection, switches, relief valves, and check valves.

What are the advantages of the hydraulic manifold for the industry? How do its performance expectations compare to piped valve systems?
One of the main advantages of a hydraulic manifold is its compactness. It represents a significant space-saving compared to piped valve systems and this feature greatly contributes to its popularity in the industrial sector. The manifold integrates optimally into military vehicles, material handling equipment, construction machinery, agricultural machinery, wind turbines, and hydraulic presses.

In addition to space-saving, the manifold block also offers ease of assembly. It is more straightforward and faster to install in hydraulic systems present on production lines for example. This leads to improved performance for operators and reduces the physical strain associated with piping.

Another significant advantage, not least, is the reduction of leakage risks. A manifold provides a more reliable solution with superior sealing compared to piped systems, ensuring maximum leak prevention in the hydraulic system.

Several key points must be considered to ensure the quality and performance of a manifold block within a hydraulic system that can be complex and specific.

From the design phase to reliable manufacturing [link to site: Design and Manufacturing] and achieving optimal performance, certain parameters of the manifold block must be defined based on its use and operating conditions:

• Compactness,
• Fluid passage diameters,
• The thickness of material between the holes ensuring its resistance to pressure,
•  The material of the manifold (steel, aluminium, cast iron, stainless steel…) to be
  define according different factors such as weight, pressure, cost, and temperature
  conditions.
•  The surface treatment like galvanizing, phosphating, anodizing, or chemical nickel
  plating to enhance resistance to corrosion and extend the manifold’s lifespan.

Only an expert in hydraulic manifold blocks can provide guidance on key considerations and the best decisions for your manifold options to ensure their proper functioning and long-term performance.

At VMF, a European specialist in precision hydraulic manifolds, we carefully assess numerous factors to deliver the most effective manifolds to our customers. To ensure the quality and the correct insertion of a hydraulic manifold block into a mechanical system, the following elements must be considered:

•  Working pressure,
• Type of fluid,
•  Outside temperature of use,
•  Exposure to corrosion,
•  Weight requirements,
•  Arrangement of components according to the environment,
•  Positioning of connections,
•  Types of threads or flanges for connections,
•  Component sizes,
•  Identification of valves and orifices,
• Types of fixings to integrate the block into the system…

Handling of machined manifolds must also be carefully managed. A simple impact on the surface of the manifold can damage it and affect its final sealing quality.

That’s why at VMF, we ensure that the packing operations for manifolds are carried out by our teams in a dedicated space. This ensures that the blocks are optimally protected during transport and do not deteriorate before delivery.

As you may have understood, for a hydraulic manifold block to be effective, it must be precisely chosen or designed according to its future use criteria. Depending on the constraints it will face, the hydraulic manifold must meet certain specific properties.

Choosing an expert in the design and manufacture of precision hydraulic manifold blocks is therefore a real guarantee to acquire a high-performance and reliable block that meets your needs. In other words, it is a sure way to secure your purchase.

A specialist in machining of manifold blocks will have the essential knowledge for its design and the machinery and tools suitable for producing different types of blocks regardless of their dimensions.

At VMF , we have been providing reliable and high-performance solutions in hydraulic manifolds to leading names in the industry for more than 35 year.

As a European leader, we have participated in large-scale projects and acquired expertise in sectors such as offshore, maritime, construction and public works, agricultural machinery, wind energy and armaments. These fields require strong guarantees of quality, traceability, technical expertise, and precision from their suppliers.

We have developed a recognized and sought-after know-how in custom precision hydraulic manifold blocks. Our production capabilities allow us to ensure a great reactivity to the requests of our customers.

Are you looking for a reliable supplier of drilled blocks with expertise in the field?
Would you like to learn more about VMF, the European leader in drilled hydraulic blocks ?
Feel free to contact us! We would be delighted to advise you and introduce you to our drilled hydraulic block solutions.