4-way-3 position direction control valve used in hydraulic system is known as 4X3 DC Valve. The valve has four ports and three positions. Following figure shows the Normal and working positions of DCV. Spool of this valve is having three positions. The spool is so selected because we have to obtain third position also called as ‘Closed Centre Position’ This position is shown in figure. We have shifted the spool in such a manner that all ports are closed to each other. Mo flow from port P to port A or B and no flow from port A and B to R.

When DC valve attains this position, pressured oil returns to reservoir via pressure relief valve. The closed center position of DC valve is suitable for immediate closing of movement of actuator.

Position- I

Position- II

Closed center position