Introduction
Every modern construction machine uses a hydraulic system, which ensures the proper performance of the equipment. Power hydraulics is also used in mining machines, agricultural machines or in gate drives.
So it is a very universal and extremely useful technology, and in our article we explain its principle of operation and describe what the construction of a hydraulic system looks like.
By the way, we suggest how to properly operate the system to minimize the risk of costly failures.
Construction of a hydraulic system
Basic elements of hydraulic systems are: hydraulic pump, receivers, distributor, valves, fluid tank, hydraulic oil, oil cooler, filters, control elements and pipes.
In power hydraulic systems, pumps with constant or variable efficiency are used, and the task of this key element is to generate pressure and transmit drive. We remind you that when replacing the pump, it is necessary to vent it - failure to perform this operation threatens to seize the element.
Actuators or hydraulic motors are responsible for receiving energy, the former elements of hydraulic systems convert the energy of the stream into linear motion, while the latter convert energy into rotational motion.
The distributor is responsible for controlling the flow of hydraulic oil, in every hydraulic system we will also find measuring devices, such as manometers or flow meters.
It is also worth knowing that hydraulic systems are divided according to the role of the fluid tank and we distinguish here a closed and open system. The difference between these systems can be simplified to the statement that open systems transport oil to receivers through a distributor, and closed ones bypass this element.
Advantages and disadvantages of power hydraulics
Power hydraulics is a solution that significantly increased the functionality of machines and increased the profitability of work. The specificity of hydraulic systems is that they can generate high power, which directly translates into efficiency and pace of work.
The weakest point of the construction of a hydraulic system is the fluid, i.e. hydraulic oil, as machines have problems with overheating the oil and keeping it clean.
Due to the complex construction and the presence of many elements of hydraulic systems, a typical problem is the quick and precise determination of the source of failure. This requires advanced diagnostics, in which Wibako specializes.
Principle of operation of the system
Writing in a great simplification, the operation of a power hydraulic system comes down to the fact that the pressure generated in one place is transmitted to another point through the medium of fluid.
The construction of a hydraulic system is in practice a team of interconnected devices, machines and pipes, where the energy generator is the pump, and the energy receivers are motors or hydraulic cylinders.
It is worth knowing that there may be significant differences between individual systems used in construction machines. However, the basis of their operation is always a fluid generating pressure and transferring energy, as well as providing lubrication for the entire system.
Repair of hydraulic elements
Even the best device can be damaged over time, especially if we are talking about heavily exploited elements. The construction of a hydraulic system is no exception in this respect.
The repair begins with a comprehensive cleaning of parts. Elements of hydraulic systems are then disassembled to estimate their technical condition. At this stage, it is determined which components are suitable for further use and which should be regenerated.
The construction of a hydraulic system is very complicated, so among the elements that can be damaged are, among others, the bottom eye and pistons, piston, piston guide ring, cylinder, throttle, seal or scraper ring.
The regeneration itself is based on several technological processes, which are selected depending on the part. Elements of hydraulic systems are therefore subjected to such treatments as grinding, chrome plating and honing. There is often a need to make a throttle or cylinder eye.
How to avoid unpleasant surprises?
A failure of any element of the power hydraulic system can cause a drop in efficiency, and even stop the machine, to minimize the risk, you should first of all remember the basic principles of proper operation.
Regular checking of the condition of individual system elements, checking the condition of the fluid in the system (the presence of water causes accelerated corrosion and seizure of working surfaces) and observing whether air is not accumulating in the hydraulic system (which threatens insufficient lubrication and uncontrolled temperature increase) - these are basic duties of the machine owner and its operator.
Of course, we do not forget about timely inspections, which should be entrusted only to a specialized service with advanced diagnostic equipment.
