With poppet-style construction which ensures low leakage, hardened working parts for maximum durability, pressure relief valves now offer an attractive and cost-effective option.
Bi-directional A04J2 pressure relief valves from Sterling Hydraulics, which feature an innovative cost- and space-saving single-cavity design, are now available in CE-marked versions that are suitable for use on all equipment required to comply with the pressure equipment directive 97/23/EC (PED). The PED relates specifically to equipment which has a high stored energy level. This includes, for example, nitrogen-charged accumulators that retain pressurised oil for release on demand, to operate a hydraulic service, such as a vehicle braking system.

The valves are rated for the highest safety level defined by the PED - Category IV - and are, therefore, also suitable for use in systems with hazard ratings which fall into Categories I, II and III.

Selected from Sterling Hydraulics' extensive range of products because of their particular suitability for safety-related applications, these valves combine high flow and pressure ratings with fast response.

In addition, their bi-directional capability means that they function safely in either direction of flow, ensuring safe operation, even if they are piped up incorrectly.

With poppet-style construction which ensures low leakage, hardened working parts for maximum durability, and pressure capability up to 350 bar, these valves now offer an attractive and extremely cost-effective option for OEMs and others who manufacture or supply hydraulic equipment for use within the European Union.

To ensure maximum versatility, Sterling Hydraulics supplies its CE-marked A04J2 valve cartridges in two models, the A04J2H with a pressure adjustment range of 5 to 210 bar, and the high-pressure A04J2M with a range of 10 to 350 bar.

Both models are tamper-proof.

The design of the valves is optimised so that the same nominal relief pressure is achieved, irrespective of the direction of flow, and so that the pressure variation with changing flow is minimal.

Despite their compact construction, the maximum rated flow for all valves in the A04J2 range is a full 120 l/min.

Sterling Hydraulics is a leading developer and manufacturer of cartridge valves and manifold systems for hydraulic applications.

The company owns and operates design and manufacturing facilities in Somerset, England and in Illinois, USA, which allow it to provide a fast, expert response to its customers' requirements, based on competitively priced standard and fully customised products.