As a supplier of ECKERLE pumps, I’ve been in the thick of the hydraulic industry for quite some time. ECKERLE pumps are renowned for their high – precision and reliable performance, which makes them a top choice in various applications, from machine tools to mobile hydraulics. One of the frequently asked questions I receive from customers is about how to adjust the flow rate of ECKERLE pumps. In this blog, I’ll share several effective methods that can be used to achieve this goal. ECKERLE Pump
1. Using Variable – Displacement Pumps
ECKERLE offers variable – displacement pumps that are designed to adjust flow rates based on the needs of the system. By changing the displacement of the pump, the volume of fluid delivered per revolution can be altered.
Swash Plate Adjustment
In axial piston pumps from ECKERLE, the swash plate mechanism is a common way to vary the displacement. The angle of the swash plate determines the stroke length of the pistons. A larger swash – plate angle results in a longer piston stroke, which in turn increases the volume of fluid displaced per revolution and thus the flow rate. Conversely, reducing the swash – plate angle shortens the piston stroke and decreases the flow rate.
To adjust the swash plate, there are usually mechanical adjustment devices. For example, some pumps are equipped with an adjustment screw. By turning this screw, the position of the swash plate can be changed. However, it’s important to note that this adjustment should be carried out carefully, as improper adjustment can lead to uneven wear of the pistons and other components, reducing the pump’s lifespan.
Cam Ring Adjustment
In some radial piston pumps, the cam ring can be adjusted to change the displacement. The position of the cam ring relative to the pistons affects the piston stroke. When the cam ring is moved to a position where the pistons have a larger stroke, the flow rate of the pump increases. Similar to swash – plate adjustment, cam – ring adjustment requires precision. Special tools are often needed to ensure accurate positioning, and the adjustment process should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. Throttle Control
Throttle control is a simple and commonly used method to adjust the flow rate of ECKERLE pumps. It involves using a throttle valve in the hydraulic system to restrict the flow of fluid.
When a throttle valve is installed in the system, it creates a pressure drop across the valve. By adjusting the opening of the throttle valve, the amount of fluid passing through can be controlled. A smaller valve opening restricts the flow, reducing the flow rate downstream of the valve. On the other hand, a larger opening allows more fluid to pass, increasing the flow rate.
However, throttle control has its drawbacks. The energy dissipated across the throttle valve is converted into heat, which can cause the temperature of the hydraulic fluid to rise. This not only reduces the efficiency of the system but also may lead to premature aging of the hydraulic fluid and damage to other components in the system. Therefore, throttle control is more suitable for systems with relatively low – power requirements or where the heat – dissipation capacity of the system is sufficient.
3. Bypass Control
Bypass control is another effective way to adjust the flow rate of ECKERLE pumps. In a bypass control system, a bypass valve is installed parallel to the main circuit.
When the system requires a lower flow rate, part of the fluid from the pump is diverted back to the reservoir through the bypass valve. By adjusting the opening of the bypass valve, the amount of fluid bypassed can be controlled, thereby adjusting the flow rate in the main circuit.
One of the advantages of bypass control is that it can maintain a relatively constant pressure in the main circuit while adjusting the flow rate. However, similar to throttle control, the energy of the bypassed fluid is wasted as heat. To minimize energy losses, some advanced bypass control systems are equipped with pressure – compensated valves, which can adjust the bypass flow according to the system pressure.
4. Speed Control
The flow rate of a pump is directly proportional to its speed. Therefore, adjusting the speed of the ECKERLE pump is an effective way to change the flow rate.
Electric Motor Speed Control
If the ECKERLE pump is driven by an electric motor, the speed of the motor can be adjusted using a variable – frequency drive (VFD). A VFD can change the frequency of the electrical power supplied to the motor, which in turn changes the motor’s speed. By increasing the motor speed, the pump speed increases, resulting in a higher flow rate. Similarly, reducing the motor speed decreases the flow rate.
This method offers several advantages. It provides a smooth and precise way to adjust the flow rate, and it can also save energy in some applications. For example, in systems where the flow rate requirements vary over time, the pump speed can be adjusted according to the actual demand, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Engine Speed Control
In mobile hydraulic applications where the ECKERLE pump is driven by an internal combustion engine, the engine speed can be adjusted to change the pump flow rate. However, this method is more limited compared to electric motor speed control. The engine speed needs to be within a certain range to ensure proper engine operation, and sudden changes in engine speed may affect the overall performance of the vehicle or equipment.
5. Pressure – Compensated Control
ECKERLE pumps can be equipped with pressure – compensated control mechanisms. These mechanisms automatically adjust the flow rate based on the system pressure.
When the system pressure is low, the pump delivers a relatively high flow rate to meet the demand for rapid movement of actuators. As the system pressure increases to a pre – set value, the pressure – compensated valve in the pump starts to work, reducing the pump’s displacement and thus the flow rate. This ensures that the pump only delivers the necessary amount of fluid, preventing over – pressurization and energy waste in the system.
Pressure – compensated control is particularly useful in systems where the load varies significantly. It provides a self – adjusting function that can optimize the performance of the hydraulic system and improve energy efficiency.
Conclusion
As a supplier of ECKERLE pumps, I understand the importance of being able to adjust the flow rate to meet different application requirements. The methods mentioned above, including variable – displacement adjustment, throttle control, bypass control, speed control, and pressure – compensated control, each have their own advantages and limitations. When choosing a method, factors such as system requirements, energy efficiency, and cost should be taken into account.
Danfoss If you are in the market for ECKERLE pumps or need more information on flow – rate adjustment methods, I encourage you to reach out to me. We can have in – depth discussions about your specific needs and find the most suitable solutions for your hydraulic systems.
References
- ECKERLE Pump Technical Manuals
- Hydraulic System Design and Application Guides
- Industry Research Papers on Hydraulic Pump Control
Fujian Zhenyuan Hydraulic Equipment Co., Ltd.
Fujian Zhenyuan Hydraulic Equipment Co., Ltd. is well-known as one of the leading eckerle pump manufacturers and suppliers in China. If you’re going to wholesale eckerle pump in stock, welcome to get quotation from our factory. All customized products are with high quality and low price.
Address: No. 125, Wuli Industrial Zone, Jinjiang, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province
E-mail: yexun@fjzhenyuan.com
WebSite: https://www.zhenyuanhydraulic.com/
