Custom Hydraulic Valve Build Programs: How do They Work?

Speed, efficiency, and the ability to pivot to unique requirements. These are crucial factors for heavy equipment OEMs when it comes to hydraulic components that are critical for overall machine power and control. GS Global Resources has been the foremost partner for OEMs for custom hydraulic solutions for over 50 years. Because of that, we are incredibly familiar with leading manufacturers, including Parker Hannifin. Their VA series valves offer OEMs versatile hydraulic solutions with sizes VA130, VA300, and VA450 for flows up to 120 GPM and pressures to 5300 PSI. Not only can we customize these valves to fit your machine’s exact technical needs, but we have the ability to create custom build programs to get you a finished product faster, which in turn gets the completed machine to end users quicker. But how do build programs work? In the video above, one of our veteran engineering designers, Dave Steinbrenner, talks you through how build programs are created and operate once a solution is in production.

Step 1: Capturing OEM Requirements

Sales teams start by identifying OEM needs, like upgrading to the VA450 valve on existing machinery. “Salespeople will come to us and just say, ‘my customer has these needs. This is a valve they have on there currently and they would like to update to something,'” explains Steinbrenner. They refine these into precise specs, collaborating with Parker engineers to validate feasibility using the VA 450’s load-sensing configuration, proportional controls, and robust nodular iron body.​

Step 2: Crafting the Build Spec

With specs finalized, we create a tailored bill of materials (BOM) including every VA 450 component, spare parts lists, and Parker-translated part numbers for shop efficiency. “Once we develop that spec, I can make a build program, build material to fit those needs. It gives me the specification, the spare parts list, which is literally every part within the assembly,” Steinbrenner says. We also have access to detailed valve configurator, 3D models, and test procedures that support detailed documentation for these complex valves.​

Step 3: Seamless Order Automation

Once the specific valve is through the design process, orders are entered into an automated system that checks inventory and drives parts demand. One of the primary benefits of the valve build program is that we are better able to keep necessary components stocked, giving us the ability to pivot and meet customer’s needs. However, even if parts aren’t in house, we are typically able to get them much quicker. “Once orders come in, it’s kind of all automated from there. If we have all the parts, we can have it done in a few days,” says Steinbrenner.​​

Step 4: Expert Assembly Process

The GSGR production team has over 50-60 years combined experience. “Our experience is unmatched. Our technicians really know what they’re doing.” affirms Steinbrenner, ensuring energy-efficient, cavitation-resistant performance tailored to OEM hydraulic systems.​​

GS Global Resources’ VA 450 build programs cut lead times, provide full transparency, and minimize risks for heavy equipment production. Ideal for OEMs needing customizable, high-flow solutions, this Parker partnership delivers unmatched speed and reliability. Contact us today to start a conversation with one of our experience account managers and engineering team about how one of these valve build programs could benefit your machine and streamline efficiency.