How Does a Hydraulic Pump Work?

A pump is central to the functionality of hydraulic systems, providing the power needed to move fluids and generate mechanical force. These systems are commonly found in machinery, construction equipment, airplanes, and industrial systems, making a base understanding of their inner workings integral to anyone who works with them. In this blog, we will explain how hydraulic pumps function, explore common types, and highlight how to mitigate potential issues that can arise during their operation.

What Does a Hydraulic Pump Do?

A hydraulic pump is a device designed to convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy, specifically by moving a fluid at high force throughout a system to then drive actuators or motors. When fluid is adequately pressurized within a hydraulic system, the energy it holds can be harnessed to perform tasks like lifting, pressing, or rotating objects. As such, these pumps are crucial for powering systems that need great amounts of power, including excavators, lifts, and other heavy machinery.

What Are The Most Common Types of Hydraulic Pumps?

There are several types of hydraulic pumps that one will encounter across applications, each designed with unique mechanisms to move fluid through a system. Below, we will explore some of the most notable options.

•  Gear Pumps: Among the simplest and most widely used in hydraulic systems, these pumps consist of two meshing gears that rotate in opposite directions. As they do this, they trap fluid in spaces between their teeth and casing, moving it from the assembly’s inlet to its outlet to power a connected system. Gear pumps are robust and reliable, making them a popular choice for applications requiring moderate pressure. However, due to the nature of their operation, they are less efficient at handling higher pressures than other types.

•  Vane Pumps: These pumps use rotating vanes, usually fitted into a slotted rotor, to create fluid movement. As the rotor turns, the vanes extend and retract against the pump housing, creating chambers that move fluid from the inlet to the outlet. This provides a smoother and quieter flow compared to gear types, making vane pumps an excellent choice for systems requiring consistent operation with low audible noise. They are also particularly effective in moderate-pressure applications, though they may require more maintenance to ensure the vanes maintain proper contact with the pump’s walls.

• Piston Pumps: In a piston pump, fluid is moved by pistons that reciprocate within a cylinder block. As pistons retract, they draw fluid into a chamber, pushing it through an outlet upon extension. These pumps offer great control over fluid flow and pressure, making them ideal for robust hydraulic systems found in industrial machinery, heavy-duty equipment, and even aviation systems.

What Are Some Issues That Can Occur with Hydraulic Pumps?

One common problem that can occur in hydraulic pumps is cavitation, which occurs when air bubbles form in fluid due to low pressure levels at the inlet. When these bubbles move through the system and are exposed to high pressure, they implode and cause small shock waves that wear down internal components over time. To prevent this, it is crucial to choose a pump that is appropriately sized for the specific hydraulic system in question so that it is not starved of fluid at any point and is fully capable of handling required pressure and flow rates. Moreover, maintaining optimal fluid levels and minimizing restrictions in the fluid path can go a long way toward avoiding cavitation.

Overheating is another issue that can impact hydraulic pumps, largely occurring in systems where such devices are pushed beyond their operational limits or simply lack adequate fluid cooling. Excessive heat has the risk of causing hydraulic fluid to break down, reducing its ability to lubricate and reduce temperatures. To address this, it is essential to use the correct type of hydraulic fluid, as different variations offer distinct levels of heat resistance and cooling capability. Ensuring that the pump is not exposed to excessive pressures or speeds is also key to preventing overheating.

In addition to the other solutions mentioned, routine inspections and maintenance are critical to avoiding issues. By thoroughly inspecting seals, bearings, and fluid levels on a regular basis, potential problems can be identified and resolved before they cause more widespread damage and result in costly repairs.

Where Can I Find Hydraulic Pumps for Purchase?

Here on Boost AOG, we carry a variety of hydraulic pumps among our selection of over 2 billion products. Other channels may require you to compromise between quality, fast service, and competitive pricing, but we aim to offer an optimal purchasing experience that takes your particular requirements and restrictions into account for the best options. This being said, take your time exploring our offerings while being sure to utilize our online RFQ forms to receive custom quotes on desired items. Our staff can also be reached around the clock, so feel free to get in touch by form, phone, or email to see how we can operate as your reliable partner in procurement.