Hydraulics is the name given to the technology and science behind the use of pressurised fluids to generate, control, and transmit power.
Hydraulics has been around in some form or other for several thousands of years. Many ancient civilisations including the Ancient Greeks and Ancient Romans constructed complex hydraulic systems for irrigation, controlling freshwater supply, and even powering tools
Hydraulic power units
Hydraulic power units (HPUs) are a key feature in most hydraulic systems. They convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy by generating a flow of fluid within the system. The majority of HPUs are self-contained.
The main components of an HPU are the primary power source, the hydraulic reservoir containing hydraulic fluid, the hydraulic pump, and the filtration units and valves.
How does a hydraulic power unit work?
The pump is driven by the main power source (either a motor or internal combustion engine) and the hydraulic fluid is sent from the reservoir to the hydraulic pump. The fluid passes through various filters and valves which are able to control the flow rate and direction.
Applications
Hydraulic power units are utilised in many applications including tractor-mounted excavators, lifters, log loaders, aerial work platforms, and more.
Expert firms and advice
If you feel that a hydraulic power unit could be of use, there are several firms that specialise in these units. Many of these also have online resources, such as the examples seen here: hydraproducts.co.uk/Hydraulic-Power-Units/Standard-Power-Units.
Different types of hydraulic power unit
HPUs are classified as either single-acting hydraulic power packs or double-acting hydraulic power packs. In single-acting HPUs, the fluid pressure is only applied in one end, whereas a double-acting HPU applies this on both ends enabling extension and retraction.
HPUs are also categorised by their size. The three main categories are standard, mini-power, and micropower. Standard HPUs are those suitable for industrial applications whilst the other two categories are more suited to smaller or mobile applications.
When choosing an HPU, you should take into account location/setting, amount of use, flow rate, motor power, working pressure, reservoir capacity, and hydraulic fluid type.