Playing a vital role in keeping fluids at a safe working temperature, hydraulic power units give a pressurised flow of liquid to hydraulic components such as motors and cylinders. Everyday uses include car braking systems and aeroplanes.
But how do you select the right hydraulic power unit for your needs? Hydraulic power units have a global market worth $6.9 billion and so there are many models and types available today. There are several key considerations when searching for a hydraulic power unit.
Physical considerations
Physical considerations need to be taken into account when selecting a hydraulic power unit such as those seen at www.hydraproducts.co.uk/Hydraulic-Power-Units/Standard-Power-Units.
Pump type is an important decision, as many different pumps are available including single stage, double stage, three pump stages or more and multiple power units. You also need to consider how the unit will be powered, whether that be pneumatically or by using diesel, gasoline or electricity. Many hydraulic power units have cooling units but these too can come in different types, including fan driven or heat exchanger.
Performance considerations
Performance specifications must also be considered alongside the physical traits above. This includes the total amount of power the unit can pump, as well as the capacity of the power unit’s reservoir. These are essential factors to think about. You also need to be sure that the operating pressure is suited to your needs, while fluid flow – which is given a single rating or rating points – should also be noted.
Does it conform to standards?
It is imperative to check that the hydraulic power unit you are looking for conforms to certain standards. Any hydraulic power unit used within the automotive industry on machine tools and equipment needs to conform to the standard SAE J1689. Those used in the aerospace industry need to conform to SAE ARP1280. Such standards are in place to ensure safety and efficiency and must be adhered to.
Hydraulic power units are commonly used within both these industries, as well as within civil and marine engineering and medical production.