Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What are some hazards of hydraulic systems?
Hydraulic fluid is highly pressurized and becomes very hot during operation, which can cause burns or start fires. Hydraulic systems should be de-pressurized and isolated prior to any work. Also, pinhole leaks can inject hydraulic fluid under the skin, which can be very serious.
What are the components of a hydraulic system?
Each system consists of a hydraulic power unit (tank with one or more pumps), filtration equipment, heat exchanger, distribution and return piping, various valves, actuators, and instruments and controls.
What type of pump is used to pump hydraulic fluid?
Positive displacement pumps are typically used because they move the same volume of fluid with each revolution and the flow volume is relatively unaffected by the discharge pressure.
What analysis can be performed to determine if the hydraulic fluid is suitable for use?
Fluids can be analyzed for dirt content, water content, oxidation, and particulate levels.
What is the purpose of an accumulator?
Accumulators can be used to maintain hydraulic pressures for short periods of time, dampen pressure pulses in fluid flow, and to allow equipment to slowly return to a lower energy state if hydraulic pressure is lost.