Hydraulic Machinery: Understanding the Structure of Hydraulic Tools

What is hydraulic machinery?

Hydraulic machinery are tools that use fluid power to perform work. Hydraulic tools are often heavy equipment that transmits high pressure hydraulic fluid throughout the various hydraulic motors and cylinders. This fluid is controlled automatically or directly by control valves, which are themselves distributed through hoses and tubes. Companies that use heavy equipment often choose hydraulic machinery because of the large amount of power that is able to transfer between the small tubes and hoses.

• Hydraulic tubes: Seamless steel precision pipes that are manufactured exclusively for hydraulic machinery. There are standardized sizes for these pipes, depending on the pressure ranges specified. Hydraulic tubes are manufactured in lengths of 6m, and are cleaned, oiled and plugged. These precision tubes are interconnected by various types of flanges, welding cones, flare connections and cut-rings; yet they are not joined due to the need for inspectors to view the interior of the tubes.
• Hydraulic pipes: In cases where standard hydraulic tubes are not available, hydraulic machinery that uses low pressure may include pipes. These hydraulic pipes are generally connected by welds, because their large diameter allows for internal inspection. Non-galvanized black pipe is suitable for welding. Most piping for marine applications is stainless steel, which resists corrosion.
• Hydraulic hose: These hoses are used when hydraulic pipes or tubes cannot be used, and are graded—or categorized—by pressure, temperature and fluid capacity. The design includes a rubber interior, which is surrounded by several layers of woven wire and rubber. The exterior is intended to resist abrasion, and the bend radius is carefully designed into the exact specifications of the machine (hose failures can cause the hydraulic machinery to malfunction, resulting in deadly situations). Steel fittings are swaged to the ends of the hoses. Hydraulic hoses tend to have a shorter lifespan than pipes or tubes, and generally need replacement every five to seven years.

Hydraulic fluid

Hydraulic tubes and pipes are internally oiled before the tools are even commissioned. Sometimes known as “tractor fluid”, this lubricant is the lifeblood of the hydraulic machinery. The general composition of hydraulic fluid is petroleum oil with other additives, including some fire resistant fluids for particular applications. Hydraulic fluid functions to:

• Transfer energy
• Lubricate components
• Suspend Contaminants and filings for transportation to the filter
• Allow for hydraulic tool performance in extreme temperatures

Jones Hydraulic Service is a multi-line stocking distributor of hydraulic tools and other products. We offer both sales and rentals, and offer our clients top-quality industrial equipment at very competitive prices. To take advantage of our 100 years of experience in hydraulic machinery, call us at 713-674-9571.