When your hydraulic application relies on precise, reliable control, the Danfoss PVG valve family is one of the most trusted solutions in the industry. As a modular, load-sensing proportional hydraulic valve solution, the PVG valve delivers smooth performance, energy efficiency, and unmatched flexibility for mobile machinery. From construction and agriculture to forestry and cranes, PVG proportional valves help operators maintain consistent, responsive control in the most demanding applications.
Even the most reliable hydraulic components may require troubleshooting from time to time. Whether you’re dealing with a non-responsive function, or inconsistent flow, it’s important to know how to troubleshoot a PVG actuator and verify that the electrical signal reaching the valve is correct.
In this guide, Hydraquip, your trusted leader in hydraulics, motion control, and electrical systems, breaks down the essential steps.
Understanding the Danfoss PVG Valve
Before beginning to troubleshoot, it’s helpful to first understand some of the key features of the Danfoss PVG valve.
A Danfoss PVG valve is a modular, customizable hydraulic sectional valve that allows OEMs and equipment owners to design a valve system suited to their exact needs. Key advantages include:
- Independent flow, direction and pressure control: The valve independently controls flow, direction, and pressure, allowing each function to operate independent of one another.
- Proportional control: Smooth, precise and repeatable actuation.
- Flexible configurations: Designed to be customized for a wide range of applications, including construction, agriculture, industrial machinery, cranes, and many others.
- Long-term durability & serviceability: Engineered for extended service life and easy maintenance.
At Hydraquip, we proudly support these industry-leading solutions from our premier vendor partner, Danfoss, offering expertise, replacement components, and full engineering support.
Common Symptoms of PVG Actuator Issues
If an actuator on your PVG valve is not functioning correctly, you may notice:
- Delayed or no response from the controlled function
- Incorrect or inconsistent flow
- Error codes in your control system (for PLUS+1® or CAN-based applications)
This blog focuses on the electrical side, how to verify the PVG actuator signal and quickly identify where the issue lies.
How to Troubleshoot a PVG Actuator and Verify the Signal
- Start with a Visual Inspection
Always begin by checking the basics:
- Inspect the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Ensure the electrical connector is fully seated into the actuator.
- Inspect the PVG actuator for signs of physical damage
- Measure the Supply Voltage (UDC)
Using a multimeter, locate and measure the supplied voltage to the PVG actuator on the UDC pinout. Record this voltage reading.
- While there are multiple electrical options for the PVG actuators, the most common utilize a ratiometric control signal. The supply voltage is 12VDC or 24VDC.
- Measure the Control Signal Voltage (US)
The ratiometric actuator compares the input voltage (UDC) as a percentage to the signal voltage (US) which is commonly supplied by a joystick, potentiometer, or HMI:
- Locate the signal voltage pinout (US). Measure and record the signal voltage supplied to the PVG actuator.
- In proper operation, the signal voltage should read 50% of the supply voltage with the PVG valve is in neutral – e.g., 6 VDC (US) for 12 VDC (UDC); 12 VDC (US) for 24 VDC (UDC)
If the signal does NOT change with operator input, the issue likely lies in the joystick, potentiometer or PLUS+1® controller – not the valve.
- Check Coil Resistance
Disconnect the wiring connector from the actuator and measure its resistance:
- Compare your reading to the published Danfoss specifications.
If resistance is out of spec, replace the actuator.
When to Call Hydraquip
If your troubleshooting leads you to a failed actuator, incorrect signal, or internal hydraulic issue, Hydraquip is here to help. Our team specializes in hydraulics, system design, and Danfoss PVG valve applications across multiple industries and applications.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to troubleshoot a PVG valve actuator can save hours of downtime. With the right tools and an understanding of how Danfoss PVG valves operate, operators and technicians can quickly identify and isolate electrical issues.
Hydraquip is proud to support the PVG product as part of our long-standing partnership with Danfoss, delivering best-in-class hydraulic solutions for demanding applications.
If you need assistance or want help choosing the right PVG valve configuration, our team is always ready to support you. Contact us today.