Control Cylinder Speed Directly at the Actuator Port
JSC Series pneumatic flow controls combine a push-to-connect tube fitting with an adjustable one-way restriction for controlling actuator speed. They are commonly installed on pneumatic cylinders where exhaust flow can be metered to produce a smoother, more progressive stroke.
Unlike a simple needle valve, a pneumatic flow control restricts flow in one direction while allowing substantially freer flow in the opposite direction. This makes it especially useful for meter-out speed control on double-acting and single-acting pneumatic cylinders.
This category is intended for inch-size pneumatic tubing.
Download Flow Control DatasheetOperating Specifications
- Fluid medium: Air
- Working pressure: 0–150 psi(g) / 10 bar(g)
- Proof pressure: 450 psi(g) / 30 bar(g)
- Vacuum duty: 29.5 inHg / 14 mbar(a)
- Working temperature: 32–140°F / 0–60°C
Why Use a Pneumatic Flow Control?
- Adjustable restriction helps tune cylinder extension or retraction speed
- One-way design provides controlled flow in one direction and freer return flow in the other
- Push-to-connect tubing simplifies installation and maintenance
- Useful for reducing abrupt actuator movement and improving machine motion
- Available in compact actuator-mounted and inline arrangements
Common Applications
- Pneumatic cylinder speed control
- Packaging machinery
- Automated assembly equipment
- Material handling systems
- Machine tools
- OEM automation
- General pneumatic motion control
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a pneumatic flow control do?
It adjusts compressed-air flow to control the speed of a pneumatic actuator or cylinder.
Is a flow control the same as a needle valve?
No. The source description distinguishes the flow control as a one-direction restriction with freer flow in the opposite direction.
Where is a flow control normally installed?
It is often installed at or near the cylinder port, commonly on the exhaust side for meter-out control.
Can flow controls be used on single-acting cylinders?
Yes. The source description identifies both single-acting and double-acting cylinders as applications.
Can flow controls be used on double-acting cylinders?
Yes. They are widely used to tune extension and retraction speed on double-acting cylinders.
What is the listed working pressure?
The source specification lists 0–150 psi(g) / 10 bar(g).
How do I adjust cylinder speed?
Adjust the flow-control setting gradually while observing safe actuator motion until the required speed is achieved.
How do I choose the correct flow control?
Match tube size, thread, flow capacity, actuator port, pressure, temperature and preferred mounting geometry.