4A Series 5-Way Air Pilot Directional Control Valves

Features & Key Specifications

Features & Key Specifications of Our 4A Series:

Inherently Safe, Non-Electrical Operation:
The primary advantage of the 4A series is its purely pneumatic actuation. With zero voltage required, it eliminates the risk of electrical sparks, making it a definitive choice for sensitive applications.

Ultimate Reliability:
The simple, mechanical design without electrical components eliminates the risk of coil burnout, ensuring consistent performance and a long service life, even in harsh industrial conditions.

Complete Functional Range:
Whatever your control logic, the 4A series has a solution. It includes 5/2 way (for standard cylinder extension/retraction) and 5/3 way (for precise mid-stroke positioning), available in both single air pilot (spring return) and double air pilot (latching) actuation types.

Versatile Sizing for Your Flow Requirements:
Available in multiple body sizes (100, 200, 300, and 400 series) to match your application's flow rate needs. This range features standard female port sizes including M5, 1/8", 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2".

Global Thread Standard Compatibility:
Engineered for global markets, our standard models come with G (BSPP) threads. For specific regional requirements, we also offer NPT and BSPT (P) thread types upon request, ensuring seamless integration into any system worldwide.

Application Fields

Ideal for Demanding Non-Electrical Applications:

All-Pneumatic Control Panels: For logic circuits that operate entirely on compressed air.

Mobile Equipment & Field Operations: A simple and robust control option for equipment on trucks or in locations where electrical power is limited or unreliable.

Heavy Industry & Mining: A durable solution for dusty and damp environments.

Food & Beverage Washdown Zones: A reliable option for areas with high moisture where protecting electrical components is a challenge.

General Machine Building: Any application requiring the control of a double-acting cylinder without using electricity.

Technical & Selection Guide

Understanding Air Pilot Valve Technology

What is an Air Pilot Valve?
An air pilot valve (or air control valve) uses a small puff of compressed air as a "pilot signal" to shift the main valve spool. This non-electrical method of actuation is what makes it inherently safe and simple.

Single vs. Double Air Pilot Actuation:

Single Air Pilot (e.g., 4A210): Has one air pilot port and an internal return spring. The valve shifts when it receives an air signal and automatically returns to its home position once the signal is removed.

Double Air Pilot (e.g., 4A220): Has two opposing air pilot ports and no spring. A momentary air signal to one port shifts the valve and it stays in that position (a "memory" function), until a second signal to the opposite port shifts it back.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can your 4A series valves replace other common brands?
A: Yes. Our 4A series valves are designed based on widely-used industry standards. They feature standard mounting footprints and port locations, making them dimensionally and functionally compatible with many common air valves found in the market. To ensure a perfect match, we recommend checking the key specifications on our datasheet.

Q: What is the difference between a 4A (air pilot) and a 4V (solenoid) valve?
A: The control method. The 4A is controlled by an air signal, making it simple and reliable for non-electrical systems. The 4V is controlled by electricity, making it easy to integrate with PLCs and other electrical controllers for automated systems.

Q: What air pressure is required for the pilot signal?
A: The pilot pressure requirement is typically the same as the main working pressure range of the valve (0.15 ~ 0.8 MPa). Please refer to the specific datasheet for precise values.