Modular valves and manifolds
Valves are normally mounted onto a valve skid with piping at the rear, or underneath, to allow quick changes to be made for main tenance purposes. Piping can, however, be dispensed with almost totally by mounting valves onto a manifold block- with intercon-
nections formed by drilled passages in a solid block or by cut-outs on a plate-formed manifold.
Modular valve assemblies allow piping to be reduced still further. These follow standards laid down by the Comite European des Transmission Oleophydrauliques et Pneumatiques and are con sequently known as CETOP modular valves.
Modular valves consist of a base plate, shown in Figure 4.45a, and a wide variety of modules which may be stacked up on top. Figures 4.45b to d show some modules available. At the top of the stack a spool valve or crossover plate is fitted. Quite complicated assemblies can be built up with minimal piping and the ease of a child’s building block model.