Bespoke hydraulic control blocks for the defence industry
Hydraulic systems in the defence industry are subject to extreme demands in terms of precision, durability and reliability. Whether in armoured vehicles, naval systems, stationary defence installations or specialised logistics solutions – the reliable control of hydraulic functions is critical to safety. At the heart of these systems are custom-designed control blocks.
Functional integration of the highest standard
A modern hydraulic control block combines several functions within a very small space. By integrating various valve functions into a single compact block, the number of potential leak points is reduced, pressure losses are minimised, installation effort is reduced and response times are optimised. Compact and robust valve blocks offer decisive advantages, particularly in military applications where installation space is limited and operating loads are high. The valves used are generally screw-in valves (cartridge valves). The flow rate is generated by a suitable hydraulic pump, whilst the control blocks handle the distribution and regulation within the circuit.
Bespoke valve blocks – designed for the specific application
Off-the-shelf solutions quickly reach their limits in the defence sector. That is why the focus is on bespoke valve blocks, which are developed and manufactured in collaboration with the customer. The design takes the following into account:
- Pressure and flow rate requirements
- Redundancy and safety concepts
- Temperature and environmental factors
- Vibration and shock loads
- EMC and military standard requirements
The result is highly integrated assemblies that are precisely tailored to the specific application – from the design phase right through to a unit ready for installation.
One-stop system integration
From design and manufacture right through to the fitting of valves, the result is a solution that is ready for installation. The advantages of this integrated approach are:
Fewer interfaces between suppliers
Clear lines of responsibility in development
Shorter development and delivery times
Optimised system performance thanks to components designed to work together
High operational reliability thanks to testing and documentation prior to delivery
Tailor-made solutions
Case studies from the product range
Steel control block with WINNER screw-in valves
Galvanised steel control block made to customer specifications, fully assembled with WINNER screw-in valves and a directional control valve from Argo-Hytos – designed for applications in mobile hydraulics.
About the steel control blocks 
Aluminium control block with 2/2-way seat valves
An anodised aluminium control block fitted with VIS 2/2-way seat valves – an example of the compact integration of control functions in a confined space.
About the aluminium control blocks 
Compact block with flow control valves
Aluminium control block, customised to the customer’s specifications, with two pre-set flow control valves and a non-return valve – ready for installation in flow-controlled applications.
About the compact blocks Materials and finishes
Depending on the pressure range and application requirements, control blocks are manufactured from different materials:
- Aluminium (anodised or coated) – maximum operating pressure up to 210 bar, ideal for weight-sensitive applications
- Steel (galvanised or surface-coated) – for higher pressure ranges and improved corrosion resistance
- Grey cast iron – for specific applications
Following machining, the blocks are deburred, cleaned and given a surface coating. On request, they can be fully fitted with valves and other components.
Maximum reliability under extreme conditions
Military systems must be capable of operating worldwide – in desert regions, Arctic climates or maritime environments. Accordingly, the valve blocks are designed for optimum flow, engineered to minimise internal leakage, and are thoroughly tested and documented. The combination of precise engineering and high-quality valves ensures that the hydraulic control system operates reliably even under extreme conditions.