01
Meter-in: definition and engineering context
Supply-flow control. Restricts air entering an actuator.
The term belongs to the valves & circuits context. Its exact limits can depend on the cited standard, catalog convention, unit system, reference state, and component configuration.
02
Why Meter-in affects pneumatic selection
Use selectively because overrunning loads can become unstable.
- Manifold: Confirm station pitch, electrical architecture, total flow, and expansion limits.
- Silencer: Backpressure can reduce cylinder speed and valve performance.
- 3/2 valve: Common for single-acting actuators and on/off air functions.
- 5/2 valve: Common for double-acting cylinders.
03
How to evaluate Meter-in in a catalog or replacement project
Read the value together with its unit, test basis, operating pressure, temperature, circuit state, and manufacturer definition.
For replacement work, compare the complete datasheet and drawing. A matching abbreviation or nominal size does not by itself prove functional or dimensional interchangeability.
- Common valve or distribution base: Base that shares supply and exhaust or distributes ports among multiple stations.
- Pneumatic exhaust muffler: Porous or baffled element used to reduce exhaust noise.
- Three-port, two-position valve: Directional valve with three ports and two switching states.
- Five-port, two-position valve: Directional valve with pressure, two working, and two exhaust ports.
Selection checklist
What to verify before selection
- 01
Use selectively because overrunning loads can become unstable.
- 02
Confirm station pitch, electrical architecture, total flow, and expansion limits.
- 03
Backpressure can reduce cylinder speed and valve performance.
- 04
Common for single-acting actuators and on/off air functions.
Application caution
Common mistakes
- Treating Meter-in as a universal definition without checking the manufacturer or standard context
- Mixing gauge and absolute values, incompatible units, or different reference conditions in one comparison
- Selecting a component from the term or nominal value alone without checking the complete operating point and drawing
FAQ