What is Fluid Power?

• Fluid power is energy transmitted and controlled by means of a pressurized fluid, either liquid or gas. The term fluid power applies to both hydraulics and pneumatics.

• Hydraulics uses pressurized liquid, for example, oil or water;

• Pneumatics uses compressed air or other neutral gases.

• Fluid power can be effectively combined with other technologies through the use of sensors, transducers and microprocessors.

From: http://www.nfpa.com/OurIndustry/OurInd_AboutFP_WhatIsFluidPower.asp

How does Fluid Power Work?

Pascal's Law expresses the central concept of fluid power:

"Pressure exerted by a confined fluid acts undiminished equally in all directions."

An Example

• An input force of 10 pounds (44.8 Nm) on a 1-square-inch (6.45 cm2) piston develops a pressure of 10 pounds per square inch (psi) (68.95 kN/m2 or 68.95 KPa) throughout the container.

• This pressure will allow a 10-square-inch piston to support a 100-pound (444.8 Nm) weight.

• The forces are proportional to the piston areas.

The Advantages• Multiplication and variation of force

• Easy, accurate control

• Multi-function control

• High horsepower, low weight

• Low speed torque

• Constant force or torque

• Safety in hazardous environments

• Established standards and engineering

Fluid Power Applications

• Mobile– Backhoes– Graders– Tractors

– Truck brakes– Suspensions– Spreaders– Highway

maintenance vehicles

Fluid Power Applications

• Industrial– Metalworking

equipment– Controllers– Automated

manipulators– Material handling – Assembly

equipment

Fluid Power Applications

• Aerospace– Landing gear– Brakes– Flight controls– Motor controls– Cargo loading

equipment

Fluid Power Components

Fluid Power System

• Hydraulic pump or air compressor

• Cylinder or motor• Valves• Filters, regulators and

lubricators

• Manifolds, hose, tube, fittings, couplings, etc.,

• Sealing devices• Accumulators and

reservoirs• Instruments, such as

pressure switches, gauges, flow meters, sensors and transducers

A typical fluid power system includes the following components: