The Basics Of Hydraulic Power Packs

A hydraulic power pack is an important part of many hydraulic systems, from small-scale engineering through to aerospace projects and beyond. Understanding the basics of how it works helps you keep systems running smoothly and choose the right unit for your application.

The elements of a hydraulic power pack

The basic principle of hydraulic power is to convert a primary drive source into hydraulic fluid flow. There are a number of elements required to achieve this:

• Primary source – AC or DC motor, or an internal combustion engine (petrol or diesel).
• Hydraulic pump – The most common varieties are gear, piston, or vane.
• Oil tank / hydraulic reservoir – The container for the hydraulic fluid.

In addition to these key components, a hydraulic power pack will also include filtration: a suction strainer at the pump inlet, pressure filtration at the pump outlet, and return filtration linked back to the reservoir.

How do these elements work?

Primary source

The primary drive source dictates the amount of hydraulic power delivered to the oil. In turn, this controls the fluid flow and the pressure limits of the hydraulic power pack. Primary drive sources could be a vehicle battery (DC), AC from a single- or three-phase motor, an internal combustion engine, or even an air motor.

Hydraulic pump

Pumps produce the flow of the hydraulic fluid. They are designed to do so within the pressure restrictions the hydraulic system demands. Pumps are selected based on suitability for required pressure ratings and their ability to produce the required flow. Economy and noise are often considered too.

Reservoir

As hydraulic power packs require fluid, they require reservoirs. These storage vessels hold the fluid and help keep it in the best possible condition for long service life.

Filtration

Filtration is a basic requirement of hydraulic units. With proper filtration of contaminants, the operational life of a hydraulic power pack is greatly increased:

• Suction strainers help stop larger contaminants entering the pump.
• Pressure filters are typically placed at the pump outlet so highly filtered oil enters the system.
• Return filters remove contamination before oil returns to the reservoir.

What about control elements?

Control elements make hydraulic power packs easier to operate and protect system components.

Pressure control

Pressure control valves limit or regulate hydraulic pressure within the system.

Directional control

Directional control valves (manual, electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulically operated) direct oil flow around the system. This enables operation of actuators, motors, and other hydraulic functions.

Instrumentation

Instrumentation such as oil level and temperature protection switches, pressure switches, and filter clogging switches are common elements of hydraulic power packs.

Cooling

Cooling is another key consideration. Hydraulic systems generate heat in the oil, and cooling helps maintain efficiency and extend service life.

Find your required hydraulic power pack at Flowfit today

If you’re searching for your ideal hydraulic power pack, Flowfit stocks a wide range of configurations for different applications, including:

• Petrol & diesel driven
• Belt driven
• Single acting power units
• Double acting power packs
• Electric motor pumps
• Power packs on wheels

All these are guaranteed for a minimum of 12 months and are available with global delivery. Make Flowfit your first choice for high performing and long lasting hydraulic power packs.