Hydraulic valves for critical applications in defence technology

Hydraulic valves for critical applications in defence technology

In defence technology, milliseconds, precision and absolute reliability are crucial to the functioning of complex systems. Hydraulic valves perform key control, regulation and safety functions – in mobile combat vehicles, maritime applications, stationary defence systems and specialised vehicles. Only high-performance, robustly designed hydraulic valves are used for these critical applications.

Requirements for hydraulic valves in military applications

Military systems are subjected to high pressure spikes, severe vibrations, temperature fluctuations and varying load conditions. Under these conditions, hydraulic valves must:

  • Precise switching and control
  • Remain permanently tight
  • Ensuring reproducible characteristic curves
  • Reliable operation even when the fluid is contaminated
  • To be compatible with standard military requirements

Different valve technologies are used depending on the application. The product range covers all relevant valve categories.

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

Valve technologies for the most demanding applications

On/off valves (directional control valves)

Hydraulic directional control valves control the direction of flow and, consequently, the direction of movement or rotation of hydraulic drives. Robust on/off valves perform safety-critical switching functions and are characterised by short switching times, high pressure resistance and reliable sealing – even under dynamic loads.
About directional control valves

Proportional valves

Proportional valves enable sensitive and stepless control of pressure and flow rate. In stabilising, positioning or regulating systems, they ensure precise motion sequences and controlled force transmission. When combined with suitable control electronics, they can be used to build complete control loop solutions.
About proportional valves

Cartridge valves (screw-in valves)

Modern cartridge valves offer a compact design, high power density and flexible integration options within control blocks. They enable modular designs with fewer potential leakage points and optimised flow paths – a key element in the construction of compact valve blocks for defence applications.
About screw-in valves

Pressure valves – pressure limiting and regulation

Pressure relief valves regulate the pressure within a system by adjusting the orifice cross-section. This can be done mechanically, electrically or hydraulically. They protect systems against excessive pressure and are an essential component of any safety-critical hydraulic circuit.
About pressure valves

Shut-off valves and non-return valves

Check valves prevent flow in one direction whilst allowing leak-free flow in the other direction. Non-return valves ensure defined flow directions and protect against unwanted backflow – a key factor for system safety and redundancy.
About check valves

Flow control valves and pressure gauges

Flow control valves ensure constant flow rates – regardless of load fluctuations. Pressure balancing valves maintain stable pressure conditions and support precise control loops in complex hydraulic systems. Adjustable throttle valves regulate the flow rate depending on temperature and pressure.
About flow control valves / pressure regulators

Lowering brake valves and load-holding valves

Retention valves protect the user in the hydraulic system against cavitation and pressure surges. In military lifting systems, ramp mechanisms or turret drives, they secure defined load positions and prevent uncontrolled movements in the event of a drop in pressure.
About the lowering brake/load-holding valves

Designed for safety-critical systems

Hydraulic valves for defence technology are designed to meet specific requirements:

  • High pressure ranges and cyclic loading
  • Vibration and shock resistance
  • Temperature resistance across a wide range of climatic conditions
  • Compatibility with military standards
  • Integration into bespoke control block solutions

Precise design and careful selection of valve technology result in a hydraulic system that operates reliably even under extreme operating conditions.

From standard to bespoke solutions

The range extends from standard non-return valves to proportional pressure-regulating valves. In collaboration with renowned international manufacturers and trading partners, we can find the right valve solution for almost any application – including as a cost-effective alternative to products from other manufacturers currently in use.
Hydraulic valves are therefore a safety-critical core component of modern defence systems. They ensure controlled force, precise movement and maximum operational reliability – even under the most demanding conditions.