Understanding Hydraulic Controls and Filters

Hydraulic systems are integral in many industrial processes because of their ability to generate such substantial power in relatively small packages. Hydraulic systems work by using an un-compressible fluid to collect and transfer force from one point to another. The fluid—hydraulic oil—sits between two pistons in a pipe, and when one piston moves, the oil almost frictionlessly passes that force along and moves the second piston.

Hydraulic controls and filters are two of the most important hydraulic components in Minnesota for hydraulic power systems. If you rely on hydraulic systems in your work, then your daily livelihood is integrally tied to these two hydraulic subsystems. With that in mind, we’ve put together this blog to outline how these two systems work in practice.

Hydraulic controls

There are three main types of hydraulic controls:

  • Directional control:Directional control of your hydraulic fluid is achieved through a system of switching valves. These valves control the direction your hydraulic fluid moves in and can quickly switch directions as directed.
  • Pressure control:
    Pressure controls can alter the pressure in your hydraulic system. There’s generally a control panel where the pressure within the system can be altered by a human operator. Pressure systems rely on highly accurate measurements, as pressure outside of certain ranges, either too high or too low, can significantly alter the effectiveness of your hydraulic system.
  • Flow control:
    Basically, this system helps dictate the speed at which your hydraulic liquid flows. It changes how much force the piston can inject at the throttling point. This system is important to keep your hydraulic system functioning at a constant speed, without sudden jumps and dips.

Hydraulic filters

Of all hydraulic components in Minnesota, as we said before, hydraulic filters play perhaps the most fundamental role in keeping your system functioning for the long term. The filters remove particulate contaminants from your hydraulic fluid. This is very important, as each particle creates additional friction in the hydraulic system, which can greatly increase your system’s likelihood of failure. Most systems have several hydraulic filters:

  • Pressure filter:These filters are placed between the pump and actuators in your system. These filters come rated for different levels of pressure, and different levels of filtration.
  • Low pressure/return filter:These filters are placed between the actuator and the tank, and are thus also known as return line filters. When you have both pressure and return line filters, you catch far more of the contaminants in your hydraulic setup, which is important, as nearly three-quarters of all hydraulic system failures are due to contaminants in the hydraulic fluid.

Find essential hydraulic components in Minnesota

If you’re looking to purchase hydraulic components, either from the best name brands or a custom-made part, M & M Hydraulic Company is the name to know. We’ve been in business in Minnesota for over 42 years and have built our name for providing the best hydraulic components at the best prices, and by backing up our products with excellent expert service. If you want to work with the best, give us a call today!

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