Check Valves: Types and Applications

Check valves are essential components in hydraulic systems, allowing fluid to flow in only one direction while preventing any backflow. By blocking reverse flow, they protect critical components such as pumps from damage, reduce the risk of water hammer, and help maintain system pressure. Their role is fundamental in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of hydraulic circuits across a wide range of applications.

Types of check valves

Inline check valves

Inline check valves are the core offering from Faster and are designed for direct installation along hydraulic lines. They are available in different configurations to meet a variety of technical requirements.

The VU series includes both single-body and two-piece configurations. The single-body version typically features female threads, while the two-piece screwed semi-body design simplifies access to internal parts such as the valve seat, guide, and spring. These valves use an elastomeric seal to ensure leak-free operation. They are offered in sizes from ¼″ to 2″, with standard opening pressures between 0.1 bar and 9.5 bar. Custom versions with higher opening pressures are available upon request.

The VUC series features a compact single-body construction, generally with male threads. These valves use a metal-to-metal internal seal, which makes them particularly suitable for applications requiring compactness and durability. Custom models can also be equipped with an internal orifice to allow controlled reverse flow. 

Shuttle (three-way) valves

Faster also manufactures three-way valves, also known as shuttle valves, which direct the higher pressure from two input lines to a single outlet. These valves are especially useful in systems where dual pressure sources need to be managed automatically. Due to the specific technical requirements, such as pressure ratings and thread types, these components are custom-engineered in collaboration with clients and are not listed as standard catalogue items.

What are check valves? 

Check valves are hydraulic components allowing oil to flow in one direction along a hydraulic line, blocking flow in the opposite direction. They serve several key functions:

• Directional Flow Control: installed downstream of a hydraulic pump, a check valve prevents reverse flow that could damage the pump or cause it to run backward. It also protects against back pressure and water hammer effects.
• Pressure Control: acting as a one-way valve, it can open at a preset pressure to relieve excess pressure by diverting oil to the tank.
• Flow Rate Control: some check valves are equipped with an orifice to regulate flow rate.

Areas of application for check valves

Hydraulic check valves are indispensable for maintaining safety, efficiency, and reliability in fluid power and hydraulic systems across a wide range of sectors, including but not limited to the following:

• Agricultural Machinery: integral to tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems, where they control hydraulic implements and attachments, ensuring efficient operation and consistent water or fluid flow.
• Construction and Heavy Equipment: found in excavators, loaders, cranes, and other heavy machinery to control hydraulic cylinders, prevent uncontrolled movements, and stabilize pressure during demanding operations
• Industrial Machinery: used in hydraulic presses, injection molding machines, conveyor belts, and robotic arms to maintain unidirectional fluid flow, prevent backflow, and ensure system pressure is held for consistent and safe operation
• Oil and Gas Industry: utilized in pipelines and refineries to prevent backflow, protect equipment and ensure the safe, efficient transport of hydrocarbons and other fluids

Why choose Faster check valves?

Faster places strong emphasis on research and development, consistently enhancing product performance and reliability while introducing innovative solutions tailored to customer needs. The company works closely with clients to create bespoke check valves and hydraulic components that meet precise technical and operational requirements. With a broad range of products—including specialized check valves available in various thread types, pressure ratings, and custom configurations—Faster ensures compatibility with a wide variety of hydraulic systems.

How to maintain check valves

The common recommendations and general rules for hydraulic circuit maintenance also apply to check valves.

How to install check valves

For the installation of check valves, it is recommended to follow best practices and the recommended precautions for connecting hydraulic components. To reduce the risk of incorrect installation, hydraulic circuit designers often select from the catalogue one-way valves with different thread types on the inlet and outlet adapters.