Marine Hydraulics Overview
Marine hydraulics has emerged as one of the most prevalent systems for delivering power and torque, mainly due to its highly efficient transfer of both linear and rotary forces and torques.
Versatile Applications of Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Hydraulic Systems
The applications of marine hydraulic systems are diverse. Here are some common uses:
– Cranes: Both rotary and linear operations.
– Winches: Rotary operation, particularly for mooring and anchor winches.
– Stabilizers: Functioning in both rotary and linear operations.
– Steering Machines: Facilitating both rotary and linear movement.
– Thrusters: Rotary operation for hydraulic bow and stern thrusters.
– Propellers: Rotary operation for adjustable pitch propellers.
– Valves and Controls: Rotary and linear operation for remotely operated valves, doors, ventilation flaps, etc.
– Platforms and Passerelles.
At Automotive Lift Repair Orlando, we primarily utilize hydraulic systems for our stabilizing vector fins and thruster systems. Additionally, we manufacture hydraulic steering systems for various high-end yachts and workboats.
Low Maintenance Requirements
When properly designed, installed, and commissioned, hydraulic systems require minimal maintenance, and troubleshooting can be straightforward for personnel with a solid understanding of general hydraulics. Two critical factors for ensuring trouble-free operation are:
1. A fundamental understanding of the system’s layout and operation.
2. Maintaining cleanliness during the repair, disassembly, and reassembly of all components.
In marine hydraulics, cleanliness cannot be overstated. Keeping the system clean and ensuring the oil is free from impurities are vital for smooth operation.
Types of Marine Hydraulic Systems
Marine hydraulics can be categorized into three types of systems:
1. Open Hydraulic Systems
2. Closed Hydraulic Systems
3. Semi-Closed Hydraulic Systems
Open Hydraulic Systems
The open Automotive Lift Repair Orlando hydraulic system is the most commonly used type. It features a pressureless tank where the oil is returned directly. In contrast to closed systems, where the oil return goes directly to the pump’s suction side, all hydraulic systems manufactured by Sleipner Motor for our Side-Power systems utilize open hydraulic systems. Semi-closed and closed hydraulic systems will not be covered further in this series of hydraulic discussions.
Example of a Marine Hydraulic Tank
Cooling and Filtration
To ensure the longevity and reliability of a hydraulic system, it’s crucial that the oil remains clean and at the appropriate temperature to prevent excessive wear and damage to any components. The Side-Power hydraulic system is designed to achieve this through the following features:
Marine Hydraulic Tank Cooling and Filtration
– A: Air filter and strainer integrated into the filler cap.
– B: High-pressure filter with a service indicator.
– C: Return filter equipped with a service gauge.
– D: Dual internal oil cooler or tank-mounted inline return cooler and drain cooler. The setup and mounting may vary based on the selected tank unit and system configuration.
– E: Optional DC or hydraulic-driven water pump for the oil coolers.
Information and Warning System
For safety and convenience during servicing, the tank is equipped with multiple information and warning sources:
Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Marine Hydraulic Tank Information and Warning System
– F: Oil level and temperature gauge.
– G: Electric alarm outputs for oil level and temperature connected to Side-Power control panels, featuring both visual and audible alarms.
– H: Gauges/indicators for filter element condition on both filters.
– I: Pressure gauge on the valve displaying system pressure.
– K: Pressure sensor for monitoring on the control panel.
Valve and Controller System
Marine Hydraulic Valve and Controller System
– L: PHC-3 Controller (Proportional Hydraulic Controller).
– M: Valve system.
Hydraulic systems transmit power by utilizing the pressure of fluid within a sealed environment. They are commonly found in applications such as vehicle brakes, wheelchair lifts, hydraulic jacks, and aircraft wing flaps. Many manufacturers prefer hydraulic systems due to their numerous advantages over mechanical and electrical systems, including the ability to deliver substantial power in a compact space. However, a significant drawback arises if fluid leaks from the system, rendering it inoperable.
Advantages of Hydraulic Systems:
Hydraulic systems offer benefits such as power, precision, efficiency, and ease of maintenance. However, they also have disadvantages, including the potential for leaks, which can create messiness, and the fact that the fluids used can be corrosive to paint and some seals.
Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Hydraulic systems rely on liquids to generate pressure. Since liquid particles are closely packed together, liquids are nearly incompressible. When these particles move, they collide with each other and the walls of their container. Because pressure in a liquid is transmitted uniformly in all directions, a force applied at one point will affect other points within the liquid. The pressure can be calculated using the equation.
In its most basic form, an Automotive Lift Repair Orlando hydraulic power system comprises a sump, motor, pump, valves, actuators, and hydraulic fluid. This combination can be configured in countless ways to transfer power and simplify mechanical complexity. When properly maintained, hydraulic power systems are highly reliable. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to hydraulic issues that result in costly repairs.
Signs of Hydraulic Problems
Indicators of hydraulic problems include unusual noise, elevated temperatures, and slow or erratic operation.
The most common causes of poor Automotive Lift Repair Orlando hydraulic performance are heat, air contamination, and water contamination. The hydraulic pump serves as the system’s heart and is the most expensive component to replace. As the pump wears, it may introduce debris into the system, leading to downstream complications.
Industry analysis shows that 80-90% of hydraulic issues stem from contamination.
Heat Degradation and Hydraulic Problems
Increased fluid temperatures often result from the system’s inability to dissipate heat. Typically, heat in the fluid dissipates through the reservoir and a heat exchanger.
Excessive heat can thin the fluid, impairing proper lubrication and potentially causing pump leaks, which decreases pump efficiency and overall system performance. Continued temperature increases can oxidize (vaporize) the fluid, leading to thickening, varnish formation, and deposit buildup.
Thickened fluid further hinders its ability to cool and lubricate components, and deposits can obstruct fluid flow.
Air Contamination
Noise is commonly linked to air entering the system, which can lead to aeration or cavitation. Aeration occurs when air bubbles contaminate the fluid, causing banging or knocking noises due to the compression and decompression of air as it travels through the system.
Air contamination can also contribute to wear, as imploding air bubbles under high pressure cause additional damage. Erratic actuator movement is often a result of aeration. Compressed air raises system temperature, degrading the hydraulic fluid and overheating seals, while also risking damage from insufficient lubrication.