What is a hydraulic pump?

Through this page, I try to make a short description about hydraulic pump although the subject is pretty familiar. If you google it you will find some good information about it.

Even though the subject is widely know I will show more in-depth information from source, where I learned and understand this hydraulic component.

For more practical information about hydraulic, check regularly Marine Hydraulics Tips

I will present here the axial piston pump because I know this type of pump. I serviced this kind of pump on board, bench tested and assembled in the workshop. From practical side I am familiar with this type of pump.

I will start with basic explanation of what is a hydraulic pump and the role of it in a hydraulic system.

A hydraulic circuit comprise of a pump that supply a volume of flow usually stated in liters/minute.

Characteristic of a pump is to convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy- the mechanical energy transmitted by its prime mover which can be an electric motor or combustion engine into hydraulic working energy.

A pump circulate the oil or causes it to move, it does not create the pressure in the hydraulic circuit. The pressure exist because of the resistance of system to the oil movement. The resistance occur from two sources an external loading as the actuators do the work and from the resistance of internal loading, because of friction acting on oil flow and pipelines pipe joints and valves.

Maintenance aspects

Therefore an important aspect for a hydraulic pump is an adequate oil supply to the suction or inlet side. If the pump is unable to draw in enough oil will result a vacuum with formation of a phenomenon called cavitation. For more information about cavitation, follow the link.

Also a dirty inlet filter can cause vacuum on the inlet side of the pump and cavitation occur. The type of filters to be used are usually stated by the pump manufactured. The maintenance factor is very important, when the filter element has to be renewed use the same type or a similar one.

What is a hydraulic pump?

A hydraulic circuit comprise of a pump that supply a volume of flow;
Work means practically to overcome a resistance (load) experienced by actuators;
Pump converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy;
An adequate oil supply to suction side of the pump eliminate cavitation phenomenon.

Stay close and check regularly the website because will be added the axial piston pump presentation