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An Overview of Hydraulic Pumps and Tips to Selecting a Suitable One

Hydraulic pumps exist in different categories depending on their characteristics and functionality. Every pump will have its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, knowing what pump is suitable can be tasking. However, an understanding of the different types of hydraulic pumps can help you make a choice. Let us get right in.

An Overview of Hydraulic Pumps

In a hydraulic system, the pump is like the heart of the process. The other parts in the system will require the pressure from the pumps through hydraulic flow. It helps the components withstand any resistance. Apart from a motor driving the system, hydraulic pumps will have a valve to relieve the pressure it generates. Below are the common types of hydraulic pumps;

Gear Pumps          

Most components in a hydraulic gear pump do not move. It consists of two intermeshing gears, and the pump’s flow output is constant. Due to the continuous pressure to displace the fluid in the system, the pumps are considered fixed displacement. Unlike the other types of hydraulic pumps, the gear pumps will attain the highest speeds.

It is affordable to purchase the pumps, and they are available in two types;

  • External gear pumps; these types have one mounting for the hydraulic motor and gear pumps. The fluid movement is on the exterior sides of the gears but within the casing. Their use is mainly in powerlifting and hydraulic machines for construction or agricultural applications.
  • Internal gear pumps; in this setup, the inner and outer gears have teeth that move inside the mesh through rotation. The movement is what generates pressure. Their applications are in low intensive tasks as they generate a more downward force than the external gear pumps.

Piston Pumps

Piston pumps can handle high-pressure tasks but are more costly than the alternatives. The types differ depending on the piston mounting; the placement can either be radially or axially. Also, the displacement can be variable or fixed depending on the models. Piston pumps will require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition. They are sensitive, and neglecting them can destroy them.

Vane Pumps

They contain vanes in a rectangular shape and a rotor with radial groves to hold the vanes. Vane pumps are efficient with volumetric output and can attain high speeds like the gear pumps. Also, they do not make noise while in use. You can reduce their energy consumption by minimizing the flow rate when using a variable displacement pump.

Tips to Selecting a Suitable Hydraulic Pump

Below are factors to consider when selecting a suitable hydraulic pump;

  • Fluid compatibility; a versatile pump can use different fluids, but it is critical to inquire from the manufacturer before using other fluids.
  • Pressure; depending on the work the system does, consider the pump that offers the correct pressure.
  • Energy consumption; the factor will mainly depend on the pump’s pressure output. The higher it is, the more power it uses.
  • Efficiency; the power getting in should be directly proportional to the output. It shows that the pump is efficient in its functionality.
  • Maintenance; select a pump that is resistant to dirt and requires minimal maintenance.

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