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Forging new generations of engineers

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.
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
– Truck brakes
– Backhoes
– Suspensions
– Graders – Spreaders
– Tractors – 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
A typical fluid power system includes
the following components:
• Hydraulic pump or air • Manifolds, hose, tube,
compressor fittings, couplings, etc.,
• Sealing devices
• Cylinder or motor • Accumulators and
• Valves reservoirs
• Filters, regulators and • Instruments, such as
lubricators pressure switches,
gauges, flow meters,
sensors and transducers

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