Which component in a pneumatic circuit is used to control the direction of flow between ports?

• A. Directional Control Valve
• B. Reservoir
• C. Pressure Regulator
• D. Lubricator

Answer: (A)

Directing the path of compressed air between ports is what a directional control valve does in a pneumatic circuit. This valve has multiple ports and, when actuated, rearranges its internal passages to connect a supply port to a work port and sometimes to an exhaust port. By choosing which ports are connected, it controls whether air drives a cylinder in one direction, the opposite direction, or vents the line. It’s the component that directly determines the direction of flow, which is essential for coordinating movement of actuators. Other parts like a reservoir, pressure regulator, or lubricator serve storage, pressure control, or lubrication—roles that affect pressure or supply quality, not the path the air takes.