The symbol for a PCFC valve is different from a non-compensated valve by the addition of a(n) _____________.

• A. port
• B. arrow across the flow path
• C. check valve
• D. manual override

Answer: (B)

In hydraulic symbols, a flow control valve that provides constant flow under varying pressure is shown with a small arrow across the flow path. That arrow indicates a compensating mechanism—usually a pressure-sensing element that feeds back to adjust the throttling so the output flow stays steady even as downstream pressure changes. This is what makes a Pressure Compensated Flow Control (PCFC) valve different from a non-compensated one: the compensation feature is depicted by the arrow across the flow path, signaling the presence of the feedback that maintains a constant flow.

The other features listed aren’t what differentiate it: a port is just an opening in the symbol, a check valve or a manual override would be represented differently and don’t convey the compensating action. The arrow across the flow path specifically communicates that the valve has a feedback mechanism to stabilize flow.