Hydraulic cylinders with pilot check valve

Hydraulic cylinder with pilot check valve – what is it? A hydraulic cylinder with a lock is a type of cylinder equipped with an additional locking element, mounted directly on its body or right next to it. Hydraulic lock, also called a piloted check valve, is responsible for maintaining the piston rod in a constant position even if the pressure in the system drops or a sudden power failure occurs. Thanks to this, the cylinder's movement remains under full control, and the elements lifted or held by the hydraulic system do not drop automatically.

Why are hydraulic locks used?

Locks in hydraulic cylinders are installed to increase safety and improve work stability of the hydraulic system. Their task is to block the flow of oil, when there is no control signal, which allows the piston to be kept in a fixed position without the risk of uncontrolled movement. This solution is widely used in construction, agricultural, and industrial machinery, as well as in lifting devices, where loss of cylinder position could lead to equipment damage or danger to the operator. The lock prevents the lowering of arms, booms, or platforms in the event of a hydraulic hose rupture, leakage, or stop of the pump. At the same time, it stabilizes the cylinder's operation, eliminating vibrations and unwanted movements under load. It also allows the chosen cylinder position to be maintained without the need for constant pump operation, which translates into lower energy and system component consumption.