Hydraulic Cartridge Systems Division Overview
Parker Hannifin’s Hydraulic Cartridge Systems Division (HCS) is a unique combination of strategic acquisitions that provided valve design best practices and created the largest cartridge valve portfolio in the hydraulics industry for our customers. Modular cartridge valve technology allows creative solutions to complement traditional spool valves, allowing Parker to meet customer requirements and provide the best system solutions possible. HCS also has the unique ability to design manifolds for integration specifically with other Parker divisional products, allowing one of a kind, clever, and compact solutions made with the combination of world class, state-of-the-art Parker product.
Lincolnshire, IL
Lincolnshire, IL
Parker’s Hydraulic Cartridge Systems Division headquarters is located in Lincolnshire, IL, a northwest suburb of Chicago. Manifold and valve engineering, assembly, and testing are key activities at this facility.
Monterrey, MX
Assembly and testing of standard catalog product can be found at the Hydraulic Cartridge Systems Division manufacturing facility in Monterrey, MX.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you the same company as “Integrated Hydraulics”?
No, we are not. Integrated Hydraulics is now owned by Eaton Corporation.
Where can I buy HCS products?
You can purchase HCS products from an Authorized Parker Distributor: Where to Buy
What is the response time on Solenoid/Proportional valves?
Solenoid/Proportional valve response times are related to the time required to completely pull-in or drop-out the armature. These data points are listed on the individual valve pages in the Solenoid Valves or Proportional Valves sections of our catalog HY15-3503R1. (See example below)
Where do I find the seal kits?
Seal kits for individual valves are listed on the valve model code pages, and show seal kits with the standard and optional seal materials. (See example below)
How do I get information on old product lines/legacy parts?
HCS has launched the Parker Cross Reference and Competitor Interchange Tool (www.crossref.parker.com) that currently allows you to cross over legacy Parker and Sterling Hydraulics products. HCS has plans to update this tool, to include Waterman, CEC, FPS, and Gresen, in the future. If you cannot find a cross using the Parker Cross Reference and Competitor Interchange Tool, please contact HCS Technical Support via email at HCS.Technical@support.parker.com.
How do I set a pressure control valve to a specific PSI value for my application?
There is a Technical Brief under the “Support” tab that explains this topic in detail: PH HCS TB-0003 “PSI per Turn for Pressure Controls". HCS has also included PSI/Turn (Pressure Sensitivity) information to the Specifications table for our Pressure Control valves found in our catalog HY15-3503R1. (See example below)
How do I hook up a DIN coil?
Din connectors, sometimes referred to as “Hirshman” or ISO-43650 connectors, are an industry standard connector method. These consist of a plastic plug that mates to two or three blades molded into the coil. On Supercoils, the DC coils have two blades, while the AC coils have three blades. This is due to the DC coils do not require a grounding blade, only the AC coils require ground. These connectors can be purchased with two different sizes of cable gland, or with a ½” conduit thread. You can also purchase DIN connectors with built-in rectifiers.
What is cracking pressure?
Cracking pressure, as defined in the test procedures, is the flow at which a relief valve, or other pressure control valve, is said to have initially opened. Typically, this is seen as a small stream of fluid(when drops become a stream), with a flow rate not more that ¼ GPM.
What is holding pressure versus thermal on counterbalance valves?
Different brands of holding valves define settings differently. The Parker and FPS holding valves are set at a crack setting, and the holding pressure is 70% less. For the Gresen holding valves, the setting as shown in the catalog is the HOLDING setting and the crack or thermal setting is 800-1000psi higher.
When should I use a backup ring?
Backup rings come in different configurations and materials. As a rule, you should always place the backup ring on the low pressure side of the o-ring so it supports the o-ring when high pressure is applied to the opposite side. This supports the o-ring and prevents seal extrusion. Some applications will require a back-up ring on both sides of the o-ring. If you need additional help with this question, please contact Parker HCS Technical Support at via email HCS.Technical@support.parker.com directly.
Unicoil vs. Supercoil – What are the differences and why is there no more Unicoil?
The Unicoil is a design from the early 90's. It is not rated for any weather resistant/robust applications, although it has been used successfully in these types of applications. When Parker acquired the Sterling product line, the Supercoil was chosen as the primary product moving forward. The Supercoil has been tested and proven in field applications, including severe duty OEM applications. As far as interchangeability, the Super Coil can be used as a direct replacement. The Unicoil was obsoleted on 7/1/2014. We are still offering this coil today, but in limited options, in service quantities, and with service pricing. In DC applications, the recommended solution is the molded Deutsch connector. This coil type is the preferred style if OEMs. If you need a Unicoil, please use the Parker Cross Reference and Competitor Interchange Tool (www.crossref.parker.com) to cross over to a Super Coil. If you cannot find a cross over in the tool, please contact HCS Technical Support via email at HCS.Technical@support.parker.com for assistance.
Can I take the valve apart to service it? Can your valves be repaired?
NO! The only service you can perform on a cartridge valve is to replace external seals or install a new solenoid coil. In some cases, a knob kit can be added to pressure controls, or even a tamperproof cap, but there are no internal user serviceable parts.
How do I get a paper copy of the current catalog?
HCS no longer offers paper copies of our catalogs, only the electronic version (PDF). You can download the most current catalog (HY15-3503R1) directly from our website at www.parker.com/hcs.
When do I use a Steel body and when do I use an Aluminum body?
Most cartridge valves are available with either an Aluminum body or a Steel body. Common practice is to use Aluminum (6061) for pressure up to 3600psi. For pressure to 6000 psi or applications that are high duty cycle, we recommend that you use the Steel body option. Remember the rating of the valve will dictate the material used.
What is Winner’s Circle?
Winner’s circle denotes the top catalog valves HCS has to offer. These products utilize simplified design, industry-common components, and refined production processes to decrease cost and manufacturing time. These products are offered at the best pricing and lead time because of these efficiencies. HCS product in our catalog that is Winner’s Circle is denoted by a Star (in the Table of Contents) and by the Winner’s Circle logo on the product catalog page. (See examples below)
Torque specs for catalog valves
Torque specifications for HCS catalog product can be found in our catalog HY15-3503R1 in the dimensions area of the catalog. (See example below)
If the product you are looking for is not found in our catalog, please use the table below. If you still have questions, please contact HCS Technical Support via email at HCS.Technical@support.parker.com.
Winner’s Circle
|
Cavity Size |
Aluminum Body (3600psi) |
Steel Body (5000psi) |
|
-08 |
23-27 ft-lb (31-37 Nm) |
32-36 ft-lb (43-49 Nm) |
|
-10 |
37-41 ft-lb (50-56 Nm) |
51-55 ft-lb (69-75 Nm) |
|
-12 |
66-70 ft-lb (90-95 Nm) |
92-96 ft-lb (125-131 Nm) |
|
-16 |
121-125 ft-lb (164-170 Nm) |
169-173 ft-lb (230-235 Nm) |
|
-20 |
225-229 ft-lb (305-311 Nm) |
250-275 ft-lb (339-373 Nm) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Coil Nuts & Adj cap/nut |
|
|
Coil Nuts |
5-7 ft-lb (7-9.5 Nm) |
|
|
-08 & -10 S,F,T adj cap, jam nut |
10-14 ft-lb (13.5-19 Nm) |
|
|
-08 & -10 K adj lock nut |
Fingertight (5-10 in-lb, 0.6-1.1 Nm) |
|
|
-10 N & A adj |
27-32 ft-lb (37-44 Nm) |
|
|
-10 cap S,F,K,T,& B adj |
38-42 ft-lb (52-57 Nm) |
|
Non-Winner’s Circle
|
Cavity Size |
Aluminum Body (3000psi) |
Steel Body (5000psi) |
|
-08 |
180 in-lb (20 Nm) |
275 in-lb (31 Nm) |
|
-10 |
190 in-lb (22 Nm) |
575 in-lb (65 Nm) |
|
-12 |
250 in-lb (28 Nm) |
672 in-lb (76 Nm) |
|
-16 |
475 in-lb (54 Nm) |
876 in-lb (99 Nm) |
|
-20 |
1000 in-lb (113 Nm) |
1176 in-lb (133 Nm) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Coil Nuts & Adj cap/nut |
|
|
Coil Nuts |
27-33 in-lb (3.1-3.7 Nm) |
|
|
-08 & -10 S adj |
36-60 in-lb (4.1-6.8 Nm) |
|
|
-10 F adj |
16-20 ft-lb (22-27 Nm) |
|
What are your corrosion resistance procedures?
External parts (i.e. tube, adaptor, etc) seen outside the block are zinc plated for resistance to corrosion. Steel line bodies are coated with clear zinc for corrosion resistance.
Why should I use SAE ports over NPT?
SAE ports and fittings provide a more secure connection than pipe ports and are less prone to leakage.
Are your valves tested?
All HCS cartridge valves are 100% tested for functionality prior to shipment. If the valve does not pass testing, it is removed and either replaced or repaired. If repaired, the valve is tested again to ensure functionality.
All HCS cartridge valves have been performance tested and the results are shown on the individual catalog pages, showing typical operation characteristics of the product. In addition, our valves are endurance tested. Validation is conducted by testing or similarity in design.
What are the part numbers for repair kit items like coil spacers, knob kits, relief valve adjustments, etc?
There is a Technical Brief under the “Support” tab that explains this topic in detail: PH HCS TB-0002 “Repair Kits". Also, seal kit, knob kit, and tamperproof cap kit part numbers can be found in the ordering information for the valves found in our catalog HY15-3503R1.
What PWM controller do I use with a proportional valve?
The driver you should use would be based on the application, type of control you need, and power source. Please contact us via email at HCS.Technical@support.parker.com and our Applications Engineers will gladly assist in helping select the best driver for your application.
When do I use Nitrile seals? When do I use Fluorocarbon seals?
D-Ring (4301 Polyurethane Resilon™) - is the standard seal material on the Winner’s Circle threaded cartridge valves and is compatible with most water-glycol, water/oil emulsions, and high grade petroleum based hydraulic fluids at temperatures between -37°C to +93°C (-35°F to +200°F). D-rings do not require the use of a full back-up ring or two half back-up rings.
Nitrile – compatible with most water-glycol, water/oil emulsions, and high grade petroleum based hydraulic fluids. Parker recommends Nitrile o-rings for temperatures between -40°C and +93°C (-40°F and +200°F). Nitrile o-rings require a full back-up ring or two half back-up rings.
Fluorocarbon (Viton™) – compatible with most phosphate ester fluids and phosphate ester blends. Parker only recommends Fluorocarbon seals for temperatures between -32°C and +121°C (-25°F and +250°F). Fluorocarbon o-rings require a full back-up ring or two half back-up rings.
For further information, please see the Technical Data section (page TD3) in our catalog HY15-3503R1. (See example below)
When do I use low wattage vs. high wattage coils?
The use of a low wattage or high wattage coil would be determined by the application. The critical factor would be heat generated when the coil is energized. The higher the wattage, the more heat that is generated, the more heat, the resistance is degraded and the magnetic force generated is degraded, which can result in improper operation of the valve.
If the valve is to be used intermittently, the higher wattage coil is preferred since heat is not a critical factor and the higher wattage allows for better performance of the valve. If the valve is used in a continuous manner (left energized for long time periods), the lower wattage coil would generate less heat and therefore the degradation of the coil and valve operation would be minimal.
As always, if you have questions, you can contact Parker HCS Technical for assistance.
Where can I get 3D CAD drawings?
Currently, 3D CAD drawings are available on our website at www.parker.com. Enter the HCS part number in the search box and select the product. From there, you can obtain the 3D model for our catalog products. If no model is available, please send a request via email to HCS.Technical@support.parker.com and we will review and work to get you the model. Please note that this will take up to a week to obtain.
What is the general mounting guidelines for cartridge valves?
There are no mounting restrictions for the valves. The valves will function in any mounting position. However, there are certain performance differences attached to each position:
Horizontal (PREFERRED METHOD FOR PROPORTIONAL) - Minimizes the trapping of air and contaminates inside the valve. For longer tube valves (i.e.: 3 position/4 way spool valves), vibrations in the application can be more readily seen (tubes bounces more). Excessive vibration can result in shock damage to the tubes.
Upright – can result in air being trapped in the upper portion of the valve when not in use. This can cause chattering, squealing, of degradation in operation.
Upside down – can allow contamination in the system to get inside the valve. This can result in leakage, sticking, or failure to function
Who do I contact to design and quote an Integrated Hydraulic Circuit?
Please contact one of our Applications Engineers via email at HCS.Technical@support.parker.com.
What is the shelf life for valves?
Shelf life for cartridge valves is dependent on the condition the valve is stored in. If in the original, unopened packaging, the life of the valve would be longer than if not in the packaging where it is exposed to environmental conditions, moisture, contamination, etc.
There is no specific period of time that is given to shelf life. Before use, visually verify the condition of the valve (damage, contamination, corrosion, etc). If there are any questions, please call Parker HCS Technical Support to assist in determining if valve is still able to be used.
What factor of safety is used for HCS valves? (Burst Pressure)?
The standard Factor of Safety for HCS valves is 3:1, but some are also rated to 4:1 or higher as well.
What is your standard warranty?
Seller warrants that the Products sold hereunder shall be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of (12) months from the date of delivery or 2000 hours of normal use, whichever occurs first.
What are the different connector styles that HCS offers?
Parker-HCS offers the following mating connectors for our coils:
Din – Coil accessories for DIN Connector 43650
| Cable Gland | Conduit | Conduit | ||
| Type | Rectified | Non-Rectified | Rectified | Non-Rectified |
| PG9 | 710549-00 | 712126-01 | 712704-00 | 710649-01 |
| PG11 | 710549-01 | 712126-00 | ||
Cable Gland Conduit (Rectified) Conduit (Non-Rectified)
Integral Deutsch
Wire connector assembly with 36” leads for Super Coils with Integral Deutsch connectors - Part # 718164
Most connectors can be obtained through a local Electrical Supply store (i.e.: Grainger, Canfield Connectors, etc).
If you need additional help with any of these topics, please contact Parker HCS Technical Support at 847-955-5000 or via email HCS.Technical@support.parker.com.
