What is the primary purpose of an orifice check valve?

The primary purpose of an orifice check valve is to restrict flow in one direction while allowing free flow in the opposite direction. This design is essential in hydraulic and pneumatic systems where controlling the direction of fluid flow is critical for safety and system efficiency.

By preventing backflow, an orifice check valve ensures that fluids move only in the designated path, which helps maintain system pressure and functionality. This capability is particularly important in systems that involve multiple fluid pathways, as backflow could lead to system malfunctions or damage.

In contrast, options related to amplifying fluid pressure, measuring fluid temperature, or filtering contaminants do not align with the function of an orifice check valve. These activities pertain to different components within a hydraulic or pneumatic system—amplification usually involves pumps, temperature measurement is handled by thermocouples or thermistors, and filtration is the task of specific filter devices.