Гидравлические системы: принципы работы и применение в промышленности

Hydraulic equipment consists of a set of interconnected modules that operate using a fluid. Any component of such a system can act on the fluid. This generates additional energy, which is transmitted to the machine’s mechanisms that perform the main work.

Anyone interested in how hydraulics work will find it interesting to learn that such equipment is found in many useful mechanisms. These include machine tools, automobiles, and other products whose operation involves significant loads. Their high efficiency is ensured by the fluid’s ability to amplify the force exerted on the working mechanism.

How hydraulics work

The typical design of any such device clearly illustrates what a hydraulic system is. It consists of functional components connected by flexible or rigid transmission links. As a rule, hydraulic equipment comprises the following key elements:

1. Power take-off module. Consists of a shaft and a gearbox that redirect up to 40% of the energy from the main motor to the circuit’s actuator. This operating principle makes the hydraulic system energy-autonomous.
2. Hydraulic pump – a device that operates using the momentum received from the system’s main shaft. Its primary purpose is to convert mechanical energy into fluid motion. As a result, the pump creates a high-pressure fluid environment.
3. The directional control valve is a valve that controls the direction of fluid flow. It directs the flow toward the actuator modules that need to receive force at a specific moment. Some valves are also capable of adjusting the flow rate of the working fluid.
4. The reservoir is designed to store and process fluid that has already transmitted force to the actuators. The fluid is cleaned and filtered in the reservoir, after which the flow is returned to the hydraulic system.
5. Pressure-maintaining piping. This transforms all hydraulic modules and components into a closed, leak-proof system. Reliable seals are used at the connection points of the piping hoses.
6. Control system. Typically, the hydraulic system is operated using a special joystick located in the operator’s cab. The control devices themselves may be electromechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic in design.

Furthermore, any hydraulic system consists of a set of special valves, filters, and measuring devices that ensure uninterrupted operation, monitoring, and safety at all stages of operation.

Types of hydraulic equipment

Currently, there are two main types of hydraulic systems:

1. Closed-loop systems. These systems use a closed hydraulic distributor. It can remain inactive until it is necessary to activate an actuator or an attached module that requires force. This capability of the distributor is useful for hydraulic systems that require power savings.
2. Open-loop. The main component of such mechanisms is the hydraulic distributor. In open systems, fluid flow is controlled using special throttles. If maximum output is required from the hydraulic cylinder, the necessary fluid pressure will be provided in the working circuit.  

To make the right choice, the buyer needs to have a good understanding of how the hydraulic system works, as well as the conditions under which it will be used.

Areas of hydraulic application

Hydraulic equipment is used in a wide variety of industries. It is primarily in demand in sectors such as:

• industrial manufacturing;
• water transport; 
• agricultural machinery and equipment;
• construction;
• aviation and aerospace.

In industry, hydraulic equipment is widely used to increase the power of presses and metalworking machines. Hydraulics is also a key component of many technical systems used for loading, unloading, palletizing, or stacking.

Advantages and disadvantages of hydraulic systems

Like any equipment, hydraulic systems have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most significant pros and cons of hydraulic equipment are summarized in the table below:

The successful operation of any hydraulic system depends on its quality. That is why it is best to purchase such equipment from trusted suppliers. The Motorimpex online store offers a wide selection of reliable, high-quality hydraulic modules and components.

The company offers its own products, as well as many other reliable brands, at attractive, competitive prices.