Standard solenoid valves have operated on a simple, binary premise: they are either fully open or fully closed. While perfect for many applications, what happens when a system demands exact, variable control over water flow and temperature? That is where the proportional valve changes the game.
What is a Proportional Valve and How Does it Work?
Unlike a standard on/off valve, a proportional valve provides infinite flow variations. It adjusts its opening in direct proportion to an electrical control signal (typically a varying voltage or current). As your electronic control system increases or decreases the signal, the valve’s internal mechanism shifts incrementally. This allows the valve to meter the exact amount of water passing through at any given millisecond, providing exceptionally smooth and continuous flow control.
Our Patented Innovation (EP 3227593)
Hydralectric is at the forefront of this technology. We hold European Patent No. EP 3227593 for our unique proportional valve design. Originally engineered to revolutionise electric showers and smart taps, our patented valve features a highly compact and responsive architecture.
The key uniqueness of this patent lies in its compact architecture designed specifically for domestic and commercial appliances. It allows OEMs to bypass bulky, mechanical mixing valves and instead use their own electronic systems to precisely control a motorized armature, enabling real-time, pinpoint control of water temperature and volume within a very small footprint.
It is designed to be “brain agnostic”—meaning it perfectly integrates with an OEM’s own proprietary electronic control systems
Expanding the Applications: When to Use It
The ability to digitally control fluid with this level of accuracy extends far beyond the bathroom sink. If your product requires dynamic flow adjustments without pressure spikes, a proportional valve is the answer.
Key applications include:
Commercial Coffee & Vending Machines: Ensuring the exact water-to-syrup or water-to-coffee ratio for perfect, repeatable beverage extraction.
Medical & Laboratory Equipment: Facilitating precise fluid metering for diagnostic equipment, sterilization processes, or hydrotherapy systems.
Precision Agriculture & Hydroponics: Delivering exact nutrient and water mixtures to automated irrigation systems.
Energy-Efficient Smart Appliances: Allowing high-end washing machines and dishwashers to dynamically optimise their water usage based on real-time load sensors.
If your next OEM project requires ultimate control, Hydralectric has the patented technology and the engineering expertise to make it happen.
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