Among various industries, hydraulic systems are the workhorse for many different tasks that range from the very old to new applications. While the systems vary in terms of types and the use of different actuators, they share one thing in common - at the heart of each system is a powerful pump. The most basic and common designs are the piston, gear, and vane pumps. Among them, the gear vacuum pump and the rotary vane pump are the major types used for applications requiring fixed-flow.
On the other hand, the axial variable-flow piston pump has become more useful with the ongoing trend to variable-displacement pumps due to their improved efficiency and higher pressures. So, for your specific application, what would it be? A rotary vane pump, a gear pump, or a piston pump? To help guide your selection, here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind.
Matching the application requirements
This is important if you want the hydraulic motor to work at a certain speed and that the pump will provide the flow needed. The pump in this case can be operated and controlled electrically or manually to deliver required displacement.
Pump control options
There are the three common mechanical controls to consider for the pump operation. These include the flow compensators, pressure compensators, and torque or horsepower limiters for industrial applications. All of these control options will tell the piston, gear or rotary vane pump what to do.
Circuit system: open or close
All pumps work either in an open or closed-circuit system. The closed-circuit systems are usually for applications that use single rotary functions like the case of a propelling a wheel motor. An open-circuit system is typically applicable for applications that need simultaneous multiple functions like raising a bucket or propelling a car. So, your specific application will determine if which system works best.