The type of hydraulic pump you need depends on several factors, including the type of hydraulic fluid your machinery uses, operating pressure, application speed, and flow rate requirements.
Two of the most common pumps used in hydraulic systems are piston pumps and gear pumps. This article will provide an overview of each type, including their common uses and advantages.
Hydraulic Piston Pump How it Works A piston pump is a positive displacement pump that uses a reciprocating motion to generate rotation along an axis. Piston pumps can have either variable or fixed displacement designs.
Advantages & Uses Hydraulic piston pumps are capable of handling the highest pressure ratings and are commonly used to power heavy-duty equipment like lifts, presses, and shovels. Their complex internal components allow for variable displacement per revolution in many models.
While piston pumps are often more expensive than gear pumps, their improved efficiency can make them a worthwhile investment for long-term production needs.
Hydraulic Gear Pumps Gear pumps use interlocking gears or cogs to move fluids. The gears are precisely aligned to create suction, drawing in liquid and discharging it. Gear pumps are positive displacement pumps with fixed displacement, so adjusting displacement requires separate pumps or valves.
Advantages & Uses Gear pumps are known for their reliability and durability when properly maintained. They require less maintenance and are generally more affordable than piston pumps. However, they typically max out at 3000 PSI, which may not be sufficient for operating large presses or other industrial equipment. Additionally, gear pumps cannot vary the system's displacement.
Gear pumps are ideal for low-pressure applications that require dispensing high-viscosity liquids and are commonly used in the food and beverage, pulp and paper, and oil/chemical industries.
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Key Differences Between Hydraulic Piston Pumps & Gear Pumps The primary difference between piston and gear pumps lies in their design. While both use hydraulic fluid to generate mechanical power, a piston pump uses a piston to move the fluid through the valves, whereas a gear pump uses gears to accomplish this.
Choosing Between a Piston Pump and a Gear Pump Your application requirements will largely determine the type of pump you need. Gear pumps are cost-effective for low-pressure applications (35 to 200 bar or 507 to 2900 PSI), while piston pumps are more efficient for high-pressure applications. If your application demands a higher discharge rate or high-speed operation, a piston pump is likely the better choice.
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