Abstract: Control for a swing mechanism having linear actuators such as hydraulic cylinders connected to the swing mechanism in a manner whereby the actuators work in unison with each other over a portion of the swing of the swing mechanism and in opposition to each other over another portion of the swing when imparting arcuate motion to the swing mechanism with the linear motion of the actuators. The control includes a pressure reducing-metering valve and a metering valve in each of two sets of lines which supply and return pressurized fluid to the actuators. The improvement comprises location of check valves and pilot lines to enhance anti-cavitation conditions by reducing the number of flow paths.

Abstract: Control for a swing mechanism having linear actuators such as hydraulic cylinders connected to the swing mechanism in a manner whereby the actuators work in unison with each other over a portion of the swing of the swing mechanism and in opposition to each other over another portion of the swing when imparting arcuate motion to the swing mechanism with the linear motion of the actuators. The control includes a pressure reducing-metering valve and a metering valve in each of two sets of lines which supply and return pressurized fluid to the actuators. The respective valves limit the pressure of fluid to one actuator while requiring a predetermined minimum actuation pressure to provide a more constant speed and torque characteristic for the swing mechanism.

Abstract: Backhoe swing apparatus including a backhoe swing bracket for supporting a backhoe for side-to-side swinging movement. A pair of hydraulic actuators are connected with the swing bracket for actuating the swing bracket in opposite directions. The hydraulic actuators are of the piston and cylinder type, and are controlled by a hydraulic system including a pair of hydraulic lines for conducting hydraulic fluid to and from each of the hydraulic actuators. A normally open pressure reducing valve in one of the hydraulic lines is operable to control pressure to one of the actuators to actuate the swing bracket in one direction and to thereby limit the pressure of fluid flowing to the actuator. Simultaneously, flow from the other actuator through the other hydraulic line is controlled by a first normally closed metering valve, which opens a permit such flow only when a predetermined minimum pressure exists in the other hydraulic line.