Home » Hydraulics Shop » Hydraulic Valves » Sequence Valve

Sequence Valve

Looking for help or a discount?

Call (800) 823-4937

Make hydraulic operations happen in the right order, every time. Sequence valves ensure one cylinder fully extends before the next one starts, preventing dangerous out-of-order movements.

Hydraulic Sequence Valves for Automated Control

Sequence valves are like automatic supervisors for your hydraulic system. They make sure things happen in the right order without you watching every move. Set the valve to your desired pressure, and it stays closed until the first cylinder builds enough pressure. Then it opens to let the second cylinder operate. This automatic sequencing prevents problems like lifting before clamping, extending before stabilizing, or moving before locking. The valve enforces the correct order even if operators make mistakes.

Our sequence valves handle the complex timing that multi-cylinder operations require. When your first cylinder reaches its set pressure – usually meaning it’s fully extended or under load – the sequence valve opens to start the next operation. Cross Manufacturing and other quality brands ensure reliable sequencing at pressures from 500 to 5000 PSI. Unlike simple relief valves that dump to tank, sequence valves redirect flow to secondary circuits, making your system more efficient.

Choose from fixed-pressure sequence valves preset for common applications or adjustable models you can tune to your exact needs. Direct-acting valves respond instantly to pressure changes. Pilot-operated versions handle higher flows with less pressure drop. Standard ORB (O-Ring Boss) and NPT ports ensure leak-free connections to your control valves and manifolds.

Item SKU: 128513

SQV Sequence Valve, Cross Manufacturing

$199.28

4.65 out of 5

18 Reviews

Why Sequence Valves Improve Safety and Efficiency

Many hydraulic operations must happen in specific order for safety and proper function. A press must clamp before pressing. Outriggers must extend before lifting. Landing gear must lock before retracting. Without sequence valves, you rely on operators to manually control timing – one mistake could damage equipment or hurt someone. Sequence valves make the correct order automatic and foolproof. Even if an operator tries to skip steps, the valve won’t allow it. This fail-safe sequencing is why OSHA requires them in many industrial applications.

Sequence valves work through simple pressure sensing. Inside, a spring-loaded poppet stays closed until inlet pressure exceeds the spring setting. This high pressure indicates the primary cylinder has completed its stroke or is under load. Only then does the valve open to send fluid to the secondary circuit. The beauty is that no electrical controls, timers, or sensors are needed – just hydraulic pressure does all the work. This reliability makes sequence valves perfect for harsh environments where electronics would fail.

Different applications need different sequence valve features. Standard sequence valves maintain back-pressure on the primary circuit, good for holding loads while secondary functions operate. Kick-down sequence valves fully open once triggered, eliminating pressure drop for maximum flow to secondary circuits. Dual sequence valves control two separate sequences from one valve body. For complex multi-stage operations, several sequence valves can cascade, creating elaborate automatic sequences. Some include built-in check valves for free return flow, important when cylinders must retract simultaneously.

Selecting the right sequence valve requires understanding your operation order and pressures. Set the valve 300-500 PSI above the primary circuit’s normal working pressure but below its relief setting. This ensures proper triggering without premature opening. For a log splitter with auto-cycle, you might sequence the return stroke after full extension. On industrial presses, sequence valves ensure clamping before pressing. We help customers design sequential circuits daily – describe your operation and we’ll recommend the right valve configuration. Cross Manufacturing valves offer proven reliability with readily available service parts. Most ship same day with adjustment instructions and installation diagrams.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a sequence valve and how does it work?

A sequence valve is a pressure-operated valve that controls operation order. It stays closed until primary circuit pressure reaches its set point, then opens to allow secondary circuit operation. Like a pressure switch but using hydraulics instead of electricity to control sequencing.

2. What are sequence valves used for?

Sequence valves ensure hydraulic operations happen in the correct order. Common on presses (clamp then press), outrigger systems (extend then lift), multi-cylinder equipment (extend in sequence), and any machine where out-of-order operation causes problems. They automate sequencing for safety and efficiency.

3. How do I know which sequence valve to choose?

Determine your primary circuit’s working pressure and add 300-500 PSI – that’s your sequence setting. Check flow requirements (GPM) for the secondary circuit. Choose direct-acting for flows under 10 GPM or pilot-operated for higher flows. Match port size and type to your system.

4. What’s the difference between sequence valves and pressure relief valves?

Relief valves dump excess pressure back to tank when over-pressure occurs. Sequence valves redirect flow to another circuit when set pressure is reached. Both sense pressure, but relief valves protect from damage while sequence valves control operation timing.

5. Why isn’t my sequence valve working properly?

Common problems include incorrect pressure setting (should be above working pressure but below relief), contamination preventing full closure, or back-pressure in secondary circuit preventing opening. Check settings with a gauge, ensure clean fluid, and verify secondary circuit can accept flow.

Sequence Valve

Hydraulic Sequence Valves for Automated Control

Quick Buy