Select Key Criteria for Your Application
When choosing a hydraulic gear pump, please consider the following four key factors:
| Parameter | Description |
| Flow (Q) | The flow rate, measured in liters per minute (LPM), determines the movement speed of hydraulic actuators (such as cylinders). It is calculated by multiplying the displacement of the pump by its rotational speed. |
| Pressure (P) | Measured in bars or PSI, pressure determines the force that a system can generate (such as the lifting force of a cylinder or the splitting force of a wood splitter). The maximum pressure rating of your pump must be equal to or exceed the requirements of the system. |
| Rotational speed (n) | This is the speed at which the pump is driven by an engine or motor, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Pumps have their specific minimum and maximum operating speed ranges. |
| Oil compatibility | Our technical experts are always available to help you calculate these requirements and select the most perfect pump for your specific application. |
Ensuring Continuous Operation of Equipment: Maintenance and Troubleshooting in the Australian Environment
Active maintenance is the key to extending the service life of hydraulic systems and avoiding costly unexpected shutdowns. In Australia, this is particularly important as environmental factors can accelerate wear and tear.
Common Causes of Hydraulic Pump Failures in the Australian Environment
- Oil contamination: This is the primary cause of hydraulic pump failure. In Australia’s dusty agricultural and mining environments, dust and gravel particles in the air can easily enter systems through worn seals or respirators. These abrasive particles will accelerate the wear of the precision machined surfaces of gears and pump casings, leading to internal leakage, reduced efficiency and eventual failure.
- Overheating: Higher ambient temperatures (especially in summer) combined with heavy workloads may cause the hydraulic oil to exceed its optimal operating temperature. Overheated oil will lose its viscosity (become thinner), reducing its ability to lubricate moving parts. This will lead to increased friction, generate more heat, and damage to seals and metal parts.
- Cavitation and cavitation: When the amount of oil the pump attempts to draw in exceeds the available supply, cavitation occurs, forming vapor bubbles. These bubbles burst violently under high pressure, eroding internal components. This is usually caused by a low oil level or a clogged oil suction filter. Cavitation occurs when air leaks into the system. When the air is compressed, it can cause the operation to become “soft” and overheat.
- Improper installation: Misalignment between the drive shaft and the pump shaft is a common installation error, which can impose excessive lateral loads on the pump’s bearings and shaft seals, leading to premature wear and leakage.
Hydraulic Pump Preventive Maintenance Checklist
Follow this simple plan to keep your hydraulic system in top condition
| Every day | Check the hydraulic oil level in the tank. Visually inspect for any new or obvious leaks. Monitor the system temperature during operation. |
| Every week | Check all hydraulic hoses for cracks, wear or bulges. Check all joints and connections to ensure they are tight. |
| Every month | Check the hydraulic filter indicator. If the indication is clogged, please replace the filter element. Clean the fuel tank breather cover to ensure it is not clogged with dust. |
| Each year (or as per the number of hours recommended by the manufacturer) | Change the hydraulic oil and replace all system filters. This is the most crucial step in preventing faults related to pollution. |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Recommended Action |
| Excessive noise (squealing/grinding sound) | System air intake (cavitation), restricted oil suction (air entrainment), worn bearings | Check the oil level and top up if necessary. Inspect the joints on the suction side for air leaks. Check if the suction strainer/filter element is clogged. If the noise persists, please contact GBC support. |
| System overheating | Low oil level, clogged or dirty oil cooler, excessively high system pressure setting, contaminated/aged oil | Check and top up the oil level. Clean the radiator/oil cooler fins. Verify the relief valve setting. Replace the oil and filter element. |
| Low pressure / sluggish movement | Pump wear (internal leakage), clogged filter element, relief valve stuck in the open position, low oil level, excessively low oil viscosity | Conduct a pressure test. Replace the pump if it is worn. Replace the filter element. Inspect and clean/replace the relief valve. Check the oil level. |
