Effective Selection of Hydraulic Power Units for Industrial Use

Learn how to choose the right hydraulic power unit to meet your industrial needs based on power, flow, and pressure.

Hydraulic power units are integral in providing oil to hydraulic systems, featuring a motor, tank, and hydraulic pump. These units are designed to deliver the power necessary to operate a variety of hydraulic cylinders or motors effectively. The first step in selecting a hydraulic power unit is to determine the nominal power, flow rate, and pressure your application requires.
Nominal power is quantified in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW) and pertains to the motor’s capability to drive the pump. The nominal flow rate, either in liters per second (l/s) or liters per minute (l/min), represents how much liquid the pump is able to move through the system within a specified period. Nominal pressure, in pascals (Pa) or bars, indicates the unit’s capacity to withstand operational demands based on the engine's power.
Accurately sizing your hydraulic power unit is crucial; overestimating the power can lead to system damage due to excessive pressure, while underestimating can hinder the performance of the machinery it supports. Sizing the tank appropriately is also critical to ensure it can handle the system’s flow rate and usage expectations.
It's important to select the operational mode of the unit—continuous or intermittent—based on the system's expected usage to avoid overheating and other damage. Motor selection, whether electric, combustion, or air-driven, should align with the available energy sources and the specific needs of the environment.
For operations in colder climates, options like oil preheating are essential. These considerations are key to choosing a hydraulic power unit that not only fulfills operational requirements but also maintains safety and reliability.
Hydraulic power units can utilize different types of motors. Electric motors are widely used for stationary setups with AC power or for mobile uses with DC power in vehicles. In locations without electrical access, combustion engines fueled by gasoline, diesel, or gas are suitable, especially for outdoor use.
Air-driven hydraulic power units are preferable when pneumatic circuits are available, providing safe and efficient high-pressure solutions suitable for explosive atmospheres. Motor choice significantly influences the hydraulic power unit's flexibility and efficiency.
Hydraulic power units are available in various sizes—from micro units for light applications to standard units designed for heavy industrial tasks. These categories help tailor the units to specific operational needs, whether it's for light machinery or intensive industrial applications.
These units are fundamental in systems requiring steady and powerful hydraulic force for operations like lifting, pressing, or in any mechanical setup requiring consistent force application. Proper oil management, including necessary cooling and heating, is vital for optimal performance and longevity of the hydraulic power unit.