What are the two common types of restrictors?

• A. Throttle type and orifice type
• B. Flow regulating valve and restrictor
• C. Meter-in and meter-out
• D. Counterbalance valve and throttle type

Answer: (A)

Restrictors limit flow to create a controlled pressure drop, which in turn meters speed and helps damp or balance a circuit. The two common types are throttle-type and orifice-type. A throttle-type restrictor uses an adjustable opening—like a needle valve—to vary the flow for a given pressure difference. This lets you fine-tune how fast a cylinder or line moves by changing the restriction, giving precise, adjustable metering. An orifice-type restrictor has a fixed restriction, essentially a small hole or plate that sets the flow based on the pressure across it. It’s simple and very predictable, but it isn’t adjustable without replacing the orifice. Use a throttle-type when you need adjustable flow control, and an orifice-type when you want a reliable, fixed restriction to establish a known flow or pressure drop.