Safety Valves: The Evolution of Hydraulic Functional Safety
Posted by Randy Hydrick on Feb 4th 2026
Functional safety has become a defining requirement in modern hydraulic system design. Across industrial applications, compliance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/ECand its related standards sets the foundation for safer equipment, reduced risk, and more reliable operation.
The Role of Safety Valves in Hydraulic Systems
Safety valves are fundamental to achieving functional safety. Designed and tested to meet stringent safety requirements, they help prevent hazardous motion, limit pressure-related risks, and ensure controlled shutdowns during emergency or fault scenarios.
When integrated into well-designed hydraulic systems such as redundant, double-channel systems safety valves contribute to higher diagnostic coverage and improved fault tolerance. Monitoring mechanisms, fail-safe positioning, and position feedback further enhance system reliability and operator protection.
Safety Valves: Designed for Functional Safety
Atos has developed a comprehensive portfolio of safety valves engineered specifically for functional safety applications. These valves undergo rigorous testing and are supplied with certification approved by a notified body—streamlining both machine design and system certification.
Key features:
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On-off valves and cartridge valves with inductive safety sensors to monitor spool or poppet position
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Digital proportional safety valves with onboard electronics certified for functional safety
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Enable-based control strategies that inhibit proportional regulation until safe conditions are confirmed
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Digital feedback signals that verify safe spool position to the machine control unit
This approach ensures compliance while maintaining precision, responsiveness, and system performance.
Supporting Safer Hydraulic Design
By aligning with the Machinery Directive and functional safety standards, Flow Dynamics and Atos help manufacturers reduce risk, improve system reliability, and create safer working environments. Functional safety is not just about compliance—it’s about confidence in every movement your system makes.