Hydraulic pumps
Hydraulic Pumps – Transforming Mechanical Energy into Fluid Flow
Hydraulic pumps are a key element of the power hydraulics system, responsible for forcing the flow of working fluid at the appropriate pressure. As positive displacement devices, they generate a flow proportional to the drive's rotational speed, enabling precise control of the entire system's operating parameters.
Choosing the appropriate type of hydraulic pump depends on the required pressure and capacity parameters, the nature of the work, and the expected noise level.
Main Types of Hydraulic Pumps
- Gear Pumps (External Gear) – most commonly used in mobile and industrial systems due to their simple design, favorable price, and resistance to contamination. Typical operating range is up to 250–300 bar.
- Piston pumps (axial and radial) – provide the highest efficiency and the ability to operate at high pressures, up to 400–500 bar. Variable displacement versions enable advanced power and flow control in load-sensing systems and applications requiring dynamic regulation.
- Vane pumps – are characterized by low flow pulsation and quiet operation, making them suitable for industrial applications in production halls and in installations requiring reduced noise emissions.
Efficiency of hydraulic pumps
The overall efficiency of a hydraulic pump is the product of its volumetric and mechanical efficiency. High efficiency reduces energy losses converted into heat, directly impacting the energy efficiency of the entire system.
Modern piston pumps have an overall efficiency exceeding 95%, which is crucial in systems operating under high load and in industrial installations requiring energy optimization.
