Hitachi Gear Pump for main pump

Function of Gear Pumps

Fluid Transfer:

• Primary Role: Gear pumps transfer hydraulic fluid from a reservoir to various components within a hydraulic system.
• Suction and Discharge: As the gears rotate, they create a low-pressure zone at the inlet (suction side), drawing fluid into the pump. The fluid is then forced out through the outlet (discharge side) due to the meshing of the gears.

Generating Hydraulic Pressure:

• Pressure Creation: The meshing gears trap fluid between their teeth and the pump casing, gradually increasing pressure as they rotate.
• Pressure Regulation: The pump's output pressure can be regulated by controlling the pump speed or by incorporating pressure relief valves in the hydraulic system.

Flow Control:

• Flow Generation: Gear pumps produce a constant flow of hydraulic fluid, which can be adjusted by varying the pump speed or using flow control valves.
• Uniform Flow: They provide relatively uniform flow rates, making them suitable for applications requiring consistent hydraulic power.

Power Transmission:

• Transferring Mechanical Energy: Gear pumps convert mechanical energy (typically from an electric motor or an engine) into hydraulic energy.
• Powering Hydraulic Actuators: The hydraulic pressure generated by the pump is used to actuate hydraulic cylinders, motors, or other hydraulic devices in the system.

Compact Design and Efficiency:

• Space Efficiency: Gear pumps are compact and lightweight compared to other types of hydraulic pumps, making them suitable for applications with space constraints.
• Simple Design: Their straightforward design with few moving parts contributes to their reliability and ease of maintenance.
• Efficiency: While gear pumps are generally less efficient than other pump types like piston pumps, they are still widely used in applications where efficiency requirements are moderate.

Priming and Self-Lubrication:

• Priming: Gear pumps are often self-priming, meaning they can evacuate air from the system and begin pumping fluid without external assistance.
• Self-Lubrication: The meshing gears provide internal lubrication, reducing the need for external lubrication systems in some cases.

Importance in Hydraulic Systems

Gear pumps serve as the workhorses of many hydraulic systems, providing reliable fluid transfer and pressure generation. Their simplicity, compactness, and versatility make them suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries.

Maintenance and Care

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the pump for leaks, abnormal noise, or signs of wear.
• Fluid Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid to prevent contamination and ensure proper pump operation.
• Lubrication: Some gear pumps require external lubrication for bearings and shaft seals. Follow manufacturer recommendations for lubrication intervals and types of lubricants.

Summary

In summary, the functions of gear pumps in hydraulic systems include fluid transfer, pressure generation, flow control, power transmission, compact design, and efficiency. They play a crucial role in powering hydraulic machinery and systems across numerous industries, thanks to their simplicity, reliability, and versatility. Regular maintenance and care are essential to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of gear pumps in hydraulic systems.