Digital proportional amplifier for precise valve control
Technical contribution
Constance, 23rd April 2025. With the EasyProp digital valve amplifier, WEBER-HYDRAULIK is presenting a solution that allows switching and proportional valves to be conveniently controlled on a smartphone or laptop and even control loops to be created. Using a web interface – without USB cable, additional app or tools – operators can use this plug & play solution to commission the proportional valves and determine the best possible valve control to adjust hydraulic systems even more precisely to the respective tasks.
The use of analog valve amplifiers, which are set using a screwdriver, is still justified today some applications in order to facilitate the commissioning, fault diagnosis and maintenance of proportional valves independently of proprietary software or data cables. However, if the hydraulic module is located inside the machine and is difficult to access, this form of adjustment involves a certain amount of effort. This is where the EasyProp product from WEBER-HYDRAULIK comes in: The digital valve driver is compatible with valves from all manufacturers via the common interface DIN EN 175301-803 (old DIN 43650) Form A and can be used immediately thanks to preset parameters.
The great added value of EasyProp is its ease of use via a web interface. No screwdriver, Bluetooth, external WLAN or USB cable is required, just a laptop or smartphone. The valve and control parameters can be adjusted quickly and with fine resolution and the live data of the in- and output connections can be viewed, e.g. during commissioning or for problem diagnosis. Alternatively, the EasyProp can also be controlled via an existing CAN bus interface or via an analog control signal.
In the freely adjustable signal generator mode, the control signal acting on the valve is generated internally. This allows ramps, cycles and various dither modifications to be run in order to check the hydraulic system in operation, carry out diagnostics and find the best possible setting
The solenoid of a proportional valve must be permanently energized in order to never switch from the sliding friction of the solenoid to static friction. This is achieved with the so-called dither. A dither frequency freely adjustable from 10-500 Hz and the modulation of the dither amplitude and shape makes the proportional valve works smoother, prevents jumps and minimizes hysteresis while avoiding noticeable vibrations in the system.
Smart control of proportional valves in the hydraulic system
In addition to the input signal for setpoint specification, e.g. via the PLC or CAN bus, the EasyProp has a second analog input to read out deviations from the setpoint in the hydraulic system. This can be a pressure sensor in the cylinder, a speed or velocity sensor in the hydraulic motor or the hydraulic pump. The integrated, freely adjustable PID controller of the EasyProp allows control loops to be formed. This means that the valve regulates itself in relation to the preset value without having to use expensive evaluation or control electronics or software
With its specific properties, the EasyProp is particularly suitable for hydraulic systems in which valves are difficult to access, valves from different manufacturers are in use and proportional valves have to meet high requirements in terms of consistency and precision.
Source: WEBER-HYDRAULIK GMBH
Source: WEBER-HYDRAULIK GMBH
Source: WEBER-HYDRAULIK GMBH
