How to select a hydraulic pump for your heavy machinery
Choosing the right hydraulic pump for your heavy machinery shouldn’t be difficult, but there are some different options to consider! Here we explain what a hydraulic pump is, how it works and the different types available for heavy machinery applications.
Learn more about our aftermarket hydraulic parts here.
You can also read our full guide to hydraulic pumps to learn more about the important role of hydraulic pumps in heavy machinery.
What is a hydraulic pump and how does it work?
A hydraulic pump’s main functions are to transfer, store and provide pressure within heavy duty machinery. Hydraulic pumps also transfer liquids and gases through hydraulic pipes and hoses. They essentially convert mechanical power into hydraulic energy, and this creates fluid movement and produces flow by moving hydraulic fluid from one point to another.
How does a hydraulic pump work?
- The hydraulic reservoir stores hydraulic fluid that isn’t being processed.
- The hydraulic pump transfers fluid flow inside the hydraulic system.
- Hydraulic tubes or hoses move the hydraulic fluid, and this is then transported to the hydraulic cylinder.
- Actuators change the hydraulic energy to mechanical energy.
- Pressure relief valves prevent excess pressure by regulating the energy output of actuators and redirecting hydraulic liquid back to the reservoir when required.
Main parts of a hydraulic pump
The main parts of a hydraulic pump can be summarised as follows:
- Cylinder – this contains the hydraulic fluid and connects to the baseplate, allowing oil to flow in one direction, and gas or air in the opposite direction.
- Piston rod – this is attached to the baseplate, allowing it to move back and forth as needed by pressing against the hydraulic fluid. The shaft extends from this baseplate and connects with the rest of the components.
- Internal bearing – this enables parts of the hydraulic pump to rotate while still staying attached to other components within the system.
- Sealing ring – these prevent contaminants entering the hydraulic fluid. Jaytrac provides high-quality seals for your machinery.
Different types of hydraulic pump
There are a variety of types of hydraulic pump available and your choice will depend on the intended application and output required.
Electric hydraulic pumps contain an electric motor, and they’re mainly used in high volume power tools. They’re also used in cranes, conveyors and machinery that requires a large amount of pressure exertion.
Pneumatic hydraulic pumps feature a pneumatic piston instead of an electric motor. Operating pressures are much lower than their electric counterparts, but they’re still used for high-volume applications, such as drill presses.
Hydraulic gear pumps utilise gears and shafts to move liquids up through the hydraulic system, as opposed to pistons or cylinders. These are usually used for smaller applications.
Aside from these main types, gear pumps, vane pumps and piston pumps also exist as sub-types.
- Gear pumps are ideal for lower operating pressures and for accurate dosing of fluids, such as fuels.
- Vane pumps maintain a high, constant fluid flow and are suitable for higher pressure applications like supercharging, power-steering and hydraulics.
- Piston pumps operate under the highest load pressures efficiently and reliably due to the exceptional sealing properties of pistons.
Uses of hydraulic pumps
Hydraulic pumps are used across a range of industries, including construction, automotive, manufacturing and agriculture. In the construction industry, hydraulic pumps are an integral part of heavy machinery as they provide the power needed for lifting, digging and pushing in excavators, loaders and bulldozers, for example.
Selecting a hydraulic pump with Jaytrac
At Jaytrac, we source and supply replacement hydraulic pumps and other hydraulic parts for Caterpillar heavy machinery. As a reliable and dependable parts supplier since 1995, we’re the trusted choice when it comes to aftermarket hydraulic pumps for your machinery.
To find the exact part you’re looking for, give us a call on tel:+441604491133 or email us at sales@jaytrac.co.uk. Alternatively, fill out an enquiry form with your details and our helpful team will get back to you as soon as possible.