Hydraulic Motors For All Repairs

Hydraulic motors are driven by hydraulic pumps and are ideal for operating a number of different systems on a piece of equipment using the same motor and pump system. The basic premise or operation of all hydraulic systems is the same, it is what is known as a closed loop system that allows a pressure level to be built up within the system, which in turns provides torque or force to move parts.

The compact size and high torque produced by hydraulic motors makes them perfect in a wide variety of applications. They are used in vehicles as well as in elevators and heavy equipment. The motors can be very small to huge in size and multiple motors and pumps can be sequenced together to produce constant high pressures required in manufacturing, construction and fabrication types of applications. Getting the right hydraulic system for the job is essential to ensure you have the power you need when you need it.

Since the pump, tubing and liquid in the system, which is typically hydraulic oil, must have a constant pressure for the motor to function, it is essential to maintain the hydraulic system on a regular basis. If there are leaks within the system pressure cannot be maintained, putting additional stress on the motor and reducing overall power output. Output for these motors is typically measured in horsepower which is determined by the pounds per square of pressure multiplied by the gallons per minute of oil flow through the system. Different hydraulic pumps have different horsepower ratings, which will be important in selecting a replacement pump or when choosing one for a new hydraulic system.

The hydraulic motors are also rated in several other ways as well. This will include the displacement of the motor, which can be fixed or variable. Displacement in general refers to the volume of the hydraulic fluid that is required to turn the shaft of the motor, which is what provides the mechanical power of the motor. Generally this is measured in inches cubed or centimeters cubed. The higher the displacement the more liquid that is required but also the more power generated. Fixed displacement motors have the same torque at all motor speeds. A variable displacement motor allows for different speeds and torque, which allows the motor to adjust output based on the load on the system.

Each motor also has a pressure rating, which is the maximum pressure that the motor can be operated at. If used in systems with more pressure than the rating there is a much greater likelihood of leaking within the motor and increased risk of damage to the motor. Having the right pressure rating is essential-- it is acceptable to go higher but going lower is a huge risk.

Hydraulic motors are also designed for specific viscosities or thicknesses of oil or liquid within the system. Oil temperature is also an important consideration, especially when operating in industrial types of applications or in high temperature settings. The viscosity rating is critical if the equipment is to be operated in very cold weather since oil has to be adjusted to a lighter weight oil in cold temperatures to keep it flowing through the sealed system.

Measuring the dimensions of the various hydraulic motors that meet specifications can also be an essential consideration, especially for replacement motors. There are some very compact, high power motors now available, so you do have options as to the height, length and width of the motor as well as the specific shaft length required.