Understanding the Purpose of a Manifold Valve: Key Functions and Applications

A manifold valve consolidates multiple flow control operations into one compact block with multiple ports. In hydraulic and pneumatic systems it helps regulate and direct flow, reduces fittings, and makes maintenance easier.

What are the types of manifold valves?

2-way and 3-way manifolds: These are typically used in instrumentation systems to isolate, vent, and equalize pressure.
Hydraulic manifolds: Used in hydraulic systems to direct fluid to different actuators and control the system's functions.
Pneumatic manifolds: Used in air systems to control air flow and distribution to various tools or machines.

Where are manifold valves commonly used?

Manifold valves are often used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, manufacturing, and any systems where efficient flow control is necessary.

What are the benefits of using a valve manifold?

Key benefits

Reduced installation time
Compact design
Easier maintenance and troubleshooting
Lower risk of leaks
Better control over fluid or gas flow

Fewer fittings and fewer joints generally means fewer potential leak points—especially helpful in tight installations.

Design of a Hydraulic Manifold

A hydraulic manifold is a block or panel containing multiple hydraulic valves, ports, and channels designed to manage fluid flow within a hydraulic system. Its primary role is to direct and regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid between pumps, actuators, and other components.

Similar to a switchboard in an electrical circuit, it serves as an operator-controlled gateway that enables the control of fluid flow between various components in hydraulic machinery.

Key design features include:

Valves: The manifold integrates various types of hydraulic valves such as directional control valves, pressure relief valves, flow control valves, and check valves. These valves control the direction, pressure, and flow rate of hydraulic fluid.
Channels and Ports: Internal channels connect various ports that allow hydraulic fluid to flow through different components of the system. The number and arrangement of ports depend on the complexity of the hydraulic system.
Mounting Configurations: Manifolds are designed to fit into specific hydraulic systems and can come in stackable configurations (modular) or as a custom-designed block (integrated) for specific applications.
Valve Cavities: The manifold features valve cavities or pockets, designed to hold different valve types. The cavities are standardized to fit cartridges, allowing easy replacement or customization of the manifold.
Pressure Gauges and Sensors: Many hydraulic manifolds are equipped with pressure gauges, sensors, or ports to monitor system pressure and performance.

What Hydraulic Manifolds do we offer?

T Type Manifold

A T manifold has three openings, forming a “T” shape. It’s used to split or combine fluid flow: one inlet allows flow in, while the other two outlets (or vice versa) direct flow in different directions.

L Type Manifold

An L-type manifold redirects flow at a 90-degree angle, sending fluid between two perpendicular lines. It’s commonly used where tight routing and direction changes are needed.

Parallel Manifold

A parallel manifold distributes flow evenly to multiple circuits operating simultaneously. Multiple ports sit side-by-side, supplying separate channels independently from a common source.

4 Port Cross Manifold

A 4-port cross manifold features four ports arranged in a cross (“X”) configuration. It allows fluid to intersect or be redirected between multiple connected lines.

What materials are hydraulic manifolds made from?

Hydraulic manifolds are typically made from aluminium, steel, or other materials that can withstand the pressures and environmental conditions of the application.

When choosing between aluminium and galvanized steel for hydraulic manifolds, several factors should be considered, including weight, corrosion resistance, cost, and application.

Quick selection guide

Choose Aluminium if you need a lightweight, corrosion-resistant solution that allows for intricate designs and excellent thermal conductivity—especially when weight is critical.
Choose Galvanized Steel if strength and cost-effectiveness are more critical, particularly for high-pressure applications or environments where the manifold will be subjected to physical stress.