Hand Lever Valves are used to operate Pneumatic Cylinders. In the absence of electrical supply, manually operated valves such as Hand Lever Valves are used. The functioning is the same, however, the solenoid coil is replaced by a hand lever, which controls the movement of the spool inside the valve, thereby allowing the air to pass.
Although the basic function remains the same, pneumatic 5/2-way valves are available in uncountable design variations with regards to size, material, color, connection interfaces, etc. This is necessary to meet a wide range of requirements, such as medical use, food processing, dusty environments, explosive environments etc.
Most 5/2-way valves have a movable spool with seals along the length in a cylinder. The valve ports connect to this central cylinder. By moving the spool through the cylinder, the valve ports are connected or blocked. Furthermore, the valve can be direct operated or pilot operated. With direct operation, the actuator is directly connected to the spool. With pilot operation, the valve uses the inlet pressure to help move the spool. The valve contains a small internal pneumatic cylinder that actuates the spool.
Video link which explains how a 5/3 way hand lever valve operates visually.