Design: Hydraulic gear pumps are designed with precision to ensure efficient fluid transfer and power generation.
They typically consist of two gears – a driving gear (also called the driver or rotor) and a driven gear (also called the idler or follower). These gears mesh closely, forming sealed chambers between the teeth. The gears are housed within a casing with inlet and outlet ports for hydraulic fluid.
Working Principle: The operation of a hydraulic gear pump relies on the meshing gears. As the driver gear rotates, it draws hydraulic fluid from the inlet port into the gear teeth's voids. Subsequently, the rotation forces the fluid into the meshing area, increasing its pressure. The pressurized fluid is then expelled through the outlet port. This continuous process generates hydraulic power and maintains fluid flow within the hydraulic system.
Specifications: Hydraulic gear pumps come in various specifications to cater to different applications. Key specifications include:
Flow Rate: The flow rate is typically measured in liters per minute (LPM) or gallons per minute (GPM) and determines the volume of hydraulic fluid the pump can deliver per unit of time.
Pressure Rating: Hydraulic gear pumps are rated for maximum pressure, often expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI) or bars. The pressure rating defines the pump's capacity to handle hydraulic systems with varying pressure requirements.
Size: These pumps are available in various sizes to fit different system layouts and performance needs.
Smaller pumps are suitable for low-flow applications, while larger pumps can handle higher flow rates and pressures.
Materials: Hydraulic gear pumps are constructed using materials such as cast iron, aluminum, or steel. The choice of material depends on factors like the fluid being pumped and environmental conditions.
Mounting Configuration: Hydraulic gear pumps can be mounted in various configurations, including flange, foot, and piggyback mounts, to suit specific installation requirements.
Applications: Hydraulic gear pumps find extensive use in various industrial and mobile applications. Some common applications include:
Construction Equipment: Hydraulic gear pumps power the hydraulic systems in excavators, loaders, and bulldozers.
Agricultural Machinery: These pumps are crucial components in tractors, combines, and other farming equipment.
Automotive: Hydraulic gear pumps are used in power steering systems to assist in steering.
Material Handling: Forklifts and conveyor systems rely on hydraulic gear pumps for their lifting and conveying operations.
Industrial Machinery: Hydraulic presses, injection molding machines, and manufacturing equipment often use hydraulic gear pumps.
