Which statement accurately describes meter-out control in a DCV circuit?

• A. It uses a flow control element in the exhaust port
• B. It uses a flow control element in the pressure port
• C. It relies on a fixed orifice
• D. It does not control exhaust flow

Answer: (A)

Meter-out control slows the cylinder by throttling the air as it leaves the actuator through the exhaust. In this setup, a flow-control element is placed in the exhaust port, so the return or retract air is restricted, giving smooth, controlled motion in the direction where the exhaust must escape. If you put the flow control in the pressure port (meter-in), you would be throttling the supply and affecting speed in the opposite direction, which is a different method. A fixed orifice provides only a constant, unadjustable restriction and doesn’t offer the adjustable throttle that meter-out control relies on. Claiming there’s no control of exhaust flow contradicts the whole mechanism of meter-out control.