Major Aircraft Hydraulic Components
Most aircraft utilize hydraulic systems, some more complex than others. These systems function using pressurized fluid based on Pascal's Law, which states that pressure exerted anywhere in a confined incompressible fluid is transmitted equally in all directions such that the pressure ratio stays the same. The main components found in these systems are reservoirs, pumps (i.e. vane and spur gears, fixed angles), pressure regulators, accumulators, valves, and actuators and filters.
-
The reservoir holds enough fluid to supply the system for normal function as well as to caution against leaks. Reservoirs dissipate heat and air bubbles and remove contamination from the liquid.
-
The engine drives the main pump. The pump works by forcing liquid from the reservoir to the pump into the hydraulic system. A vane is a low pressure/high volume pump while a gear is medium volume/medium pressure pump. These pressure pumps are capable of pressures between 3000-3500 psi.
-
The pressure inside the system must be regulated in order to prevent damage. Typically, there is no restriction when it comes to fluid movement. However, when there is, the regulator prevents excess buildup of pressure.
-
An accumulator consists of two parts: one containing gas and the other containing working fluid. The accumulator can be used as backup pressure if the pump fails and also helps level pressure fluctuations.
-
The three valves found in hydraulic systems include check, pressure relief, and selector.
-
Actuators come in a wide variety and convert pressure into movement in order to operate the system. Filters keep the fluid inside clean. Contamination of the fluid can ruin valves, cause leakage, etc.
Purchasing Management 360 is a Trusted supplier of hydraulic systems, accumulators, relief valve pressure regulators, and other aircraft parts, new or obsolete.