Excavators, vinçler, loaders and other heavy machinery rely on hydraulic systems to operate efficiently. At the heart of these systems are high-pressure hydraulic pumps that provide the pressurized fluid to move cylinders, rotate motors and power other functions.
In the post, we’ll explain in simple terms what hydraulic pumps do in excavators and other heavy equipment using everyday language.
What Hydraulic Pumps Do？
In simple terms, a ekskavatör için hidrolik pompa takes mechanical energy from the engine and converts it into hydraulic energy in the form of pressurized fluid. This high-pressure fluid is then routed through hydraulic lines to cylinders, motors and other components that actually do the work in the machine.
In an excavator, the main hydraulic pump is belt-driven by the diesel engine. As the pump’s shaft rotates, it causes fluid to flow through the pump and get pressurized. This high-pressure fluid is then supplied to:
- Hydraulic cylinders – To raise, lower and extend the boom, arm and bucket.
- Swing motor – To rotate the upper body/cab.
- Travel motors – To move the undercarriage and propel the excavator.
- Auxiliary hydraulics – To power attachments like hydraulic hammers, shears and thumbs.
By pressurizing hydraulic fluid, the pump transmits power to various hydraulic components to operate the machine. The faster the pump shaft spins, the more fluid it pumps and the higher the pressure it creates – up to 3,000 psi or more!
Without the hydraulic pump continually providing pressurized fluid, the excavator would lose functionality and become inoperable.
Types Of Hydraulic Pumps
Several types of hydraulic pumps are commonly used in excavators and heavy equipment:
- Piston pumps – These are the most common. They use pistons inside cylinders to displace fluid. They offer high pressure and precision.
- Kanatlı pompalar – These use rotating vanes inside a cavity. They handle moderately high pressures but are less precise than piston pumps.
- Gear pumps – A simple design using meshing gears to move fluid. They offer lower pressures and flow rates.
- Variable displacement pumps (VDPs) – VDPs change pump output based on need. This makes hydraulic systems more efficient and extends component life.