Which type of directional control valve is described as having a floating center?

A directional control valve with a floating center is defined by its ability to allow fluid to flow through multiple paths while remaining in a neutral position when not actuated. In the case of a 3 position / 4 way valve, the floating center means that in this neutral position, the valve does not block all ports; instead, it allows flow from one of the other ports. This configuration is particularly useful for applications requiring the extending and retracting movements of double-acting cylinders, where the center position allows for no actuation, enabling the cylinder to remain in a stationary position until flow is directed to move it.

In contrast, a 2 position / 2 way valve typically has a straightforward configuration with two states and does not feature a neutral or floating center position. While a single acting valve references the type of actuator mechanism rather than its directional control capabilities, a metering valve refers to flow control rather than direction. Each of these alternatives lacks the specialized directional flow path management characteristic of a floating center found in a 3 position / 4 way valve.