The position of the controlled flow path is part of the function, not merely the fitting's appearance.
Trace the direction being controlled
SMC's speed-controller instructions distinguish meter-in and meter-out control according to operating conditions. Keep that direction with the selected component. Primary reference: SMC speed-controller function.
Meter-in concerns air entering the actuator path; meter-out concerns its leaving path. Draw the relevant movement direction and mark the controlled branch. A one-way flow controller's unrestricted reverse path also belongs in the drawing, so a part's installed orientation has meaning beyond matching its thread.
Review a hypothetical circuit substitution
Imagine two proposals use identical-looking flow-control fittings. One drawing identifies supply-side restriction for the movement under review; the other identifies exhaust-side restriction. Comparing the same knob position would not establish equal speed behavior. First resolve the actual flow path and intended load condition.
Build rows for direction of motion, chamber receiving air, chamber exhausting air, controlled restriction and relevant load behavior. Keep each supplier's circuit reference attached. The example gives no HM speed observation, setting or direction instruction for an installed fitting.
Compare the function under the stated duty
Ask why the proposed topology fits the actual actuator and load, and what evidence confirms the intended motion. Other pressure, exhaust and load conditions can remain relevant after the flow-control direction is identified.
Retain the selected part and circuit revision through replacements. A spare that fits mechanically can still change the functional path. This guide clarifies the topology question without treating one control type as universally preferable or promising that an identical number of knob turns produces identical speed across different circuits and loads. The applicable comparison should identify both motion directions.
Customer Questions
Do matching threads establish matching speed-control function?
No. Identify the controlled flow direction.
Are meter-in and meter-out the same path?
No. They control entering and leaving flow respectively.
Can knob position alone compare two different circuits?
No. Preserve topology and operating conditions.
Primary References
These references support the technical principles discussed in this guide. The worked examples and review questions are educational.
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