Tips to Help You Avoid Common Fluid Power Design Mistakes

As a longtime hydraulic company in Minnesota, we’ve gained a lot of experience in fluid power design over the years. This has given us more than enough perspective to tell when manufacturers or other hydraulic companies are making some critical mistakes in their designs.With this in mind, here are some examples of common fluid power design mistakes and how you can avoid them:

  • Mixing up pressure and flow: This is a mistake that is especially common among designers who are new to the hydraulic field. They tend to want to get more force to lift up bigger, heavier loads, and think they need bigger pumps to produce that force. In actuality, a smaller pump often allows them to raise the pressure slightly while still preserving some of the input horsepower. The confusing of pressure and flow is even worse when talking about valves—if you put an inline flow control on a system and turn it down, the upstream pressure will rise. The mistake people make is thinking this is actually them adjusting pressure, which isn’t the case at all.
  • Not having the right reservoir size: Another common mistake made by hydraulic system designers is failing to provide enough reservoir volume. Having the correct reservoir size helps with cooling, aeration removal and contamination settling. If the reservoir hasn’t been properly sized for the cylinder, there could be some catastrophic damage to the system. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure before using any system that the right reservoir size is in place.
  • Not abiding by strength limitations of cylinder columns: This mistake can be made by just about any designer, whether beginning or advanced. The cylinder’s column strength must be obeyed. This strength is determined by the diameter and length of the rod, as well as the mounting configuration of the cylinder and its rod attachment. This entire system is going to have limitations to how much it’s capable of handling, and if you exceed those limitations there is a chance you could be dealing with some buckling or misalignment, which could permanently damage your hydraulic system.
  • Continuing to use old technology: Just because you’re comfortable with your old technology doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best technology for your uses. Hydraulic system design has come a very long way over the years, so why should you settle for handicapping yourself with outdated technology that isn’t nearly as efficient as what’s available today?
  • Not considering your filtration requirements: You’re going to need a lot more than just a small paper filter assembly to protect your hydraulic system, at least if you have any real desire to avoid some expensive repairs. Paper filters are inefficient, can absorb water and do not have sufficient dirt-holding capacity. You should instead choose synthetic filters, which are more expensive but will perform better and guard you against the need to make unnecessary repairs.

For more information, contact M & M Hydraulic Company in Minnesota with any questions you have. We look forward to assisting you soon!

At M & M Hydraulic Co., we’ve been honing our expertise in fluid power design for years. With our experience, we’ve seen firsthand the most common mistakes in hydraulic system design, and we’re here to help you avoid them. Hydraulic systems are intricate and can be easily damaged if not designed correctly. Below are some practical tips to help your fluid power design be efficient and functional without falling into the traps of common errors.

Understanding Pressure and Flow

New designers often confuse pressure and flow. While it seems logical that a larger pump means more power, this isn’t always the case. A smaller pump can actually offer better control of pressure without compromising efficiency. Pressure refers to the force of the hydraulic fluid, and flow refers to the amount of fluid moving through the system. Both must be properly balanced to avoid inefficiency and potential damage.

Choosing the Right Reservoir Size

Hydraulic systems require adequate fluid storage for proper cooling, filtration, and aeration. Failing to choose the correct reservoir size can lead to overheating, contamination, or even complete system failure. It’s crucial to select a reservoir that can handle the demands of the system, making sure there’s enough capacity to accommodate changes in fluid levels during operation.

If the reservoir is too small, you risk damaging the system. A larger-than-necessary reservoir can be wasteful and may contribute to unwanted system complexity. Properly sizing the reservoir keeps everything running smoothly and ensures that the hydraulic fluid stays clean and cool.

Adhering to Cylinder Column Strength Limits

Hydraulic cylinders have specific strength limits, and exceeding these limits can lead to serious issues like misalignment or buckling. The strength of the cylinder depends on the rod’s size, length, and mounting configuration. Always check the specifications to ensure the cylinder can handle the forces your system requires. Ignoring these limits could result in expensive repairs or system failure.

Upgrading Technology for Efficiency

Sticking with old hydraulic technologies might feel familiar, but it can prevent you from achieving the efficiency and performance your system needs. The hydraulic field has advanced significantly in recent years, with improved pumps, valves, and control systems that are far more efficient than older models.

Upgrading to newer technology guarantees that your hydraulic fluid is used in the most effective way possible, reducing energy consumption and improving system reliability. Older systems may be harder to maintain and might not be able to handle the demands of modern applications.

Selecting Proper Filtration for Hydraulic Fluids

The filtration system you choose plays a critical role in protecting your system. Basic paper filters are ineffective at capturing contaminants, leading to pump, valve, and component damage. Instead, use synthetic filters, which are more efficient and durable. These filters remove water and particles from the fluid, making sure the system runs cleanly and efficiently, minimizing wear on components.

Say Goodbye to Hydraulic Headaches with M & M Hydraulic Co.

If you’re ready to improve your fluid power design and avoid costly mistakes, M & M Hydraulic Co. is here to help. We’re here to guide you through the process, making sure your fluid power design is efficient, reliable, and well-designed. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your next hydraulic project. We’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible results with our years of experience and industry knowledge. Reach out now for more information!

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