UNIT – I 11 Periods - FLUID POWER SYSTEMS - Introduction to oil hydraulics and pneumatics – structure of systems- advantages and

limitations of oil and air systems - Properties and types of fluids- Types of fluid for hydraulic systems – basic governing laws of fluid.
Distribution of fluid power- ANSI symbols of components.
HYDRAULIC PUMPS AND MOTORS
Pumps: Gear pumps, Screw pumps, Vane pumps, Radial and Axial piston pumps. Motors: Fixed and variable displacement motors-
Efficiency calculations of pump and actuators. Hydraulic cylinders: Mounting methods of cylinders- cushioning of cylinders- cylinder
speed calculations-Hydrostatic transmission system- Accumulators and their types.

1. Define fluid power.

Fluid power is a term describing hydraulics and pneumatics technologies. Fluid power may be defined as the
technology that deals with the generation, control, and transmission of power using pressurized fluids.
It is subdivided into: Hydraulics using a liquid such as oil or water, and. Pneumatics using a gas such as air or other
gases.
2. Why fluid power system is called muscle of the industry?
The fluid power system is considered as the muscle of automation because
• Fluid power systems generally can transmit equivalent power within a much smaller space than
mechanical or electrical drives can, especially when extremely high force or torque is required.
• Fluid power systems also offer simple and effective control of direction, speed, force, and torque using
simple control valves.
• It can perform various activities associated with automation such as remote and direct control of
production operations, manufacturing processes, and materials handling.
3. Distinguish between fluid transport and fluid power systems.
• The objective of the fluid transport systems is to transport/deliver fluids from one place to another place to
achieve some useful purpose. Examples include pumping stations for pumping water to homes, cross country
gas lines.
•Fluid power systems are designed to perform work. In fluid power systems, Work is obtained by pressurized
fluid acting directly on fluid cylinder or fluid motor. A cylinder produces a force resulting in linear motion, whereas
a fluid motor produces a torque resulting in rotary motion application - In Electro hydraulics - Flight simulator, In
Electro pneumatics - Paint spray system, multiple welding machines, Pneumatics Automation at Work - Drilling,
Assembly work.
4. Name three basic methods of transmitting power.
Mechanical power transmission refers to the transfer of mechanical energy (physical motion) from one
component to another in machines. Most machines need some form of mechanical power transmission.
Common examples include electric shavers, water pumps, turbines and automobiles
1. Electrical power transmission,
2. Mechanical power transmission, and
3. Fluid power transmission,
(a) Hydraulic power transmission, and
(b) Pneumatic power transmission.
5. Under what situations, electrical, mechanical, and fluid power transmissions are suitable?
Fluid power is a term describing hydraulics and pneumatics technologies. Both technologies use a fluid (liquid or
gas) to transmit power from one location to another, the technology of converting power to a more useable form
and distributing it to where it is needed. The common methods of power transmission are electrical, mechanical,
and fluid power.
- Electrical power transmissions are suitable for power transmission over long distances.
 - Mechanical power transmissions are suitable for the transmission of motion and force over relatively
short distances.
- Fluid power transmissions are suitable for power transmission over intermediate distances.
6. What is the fundamental difference between hydraulics and pneumatics?
The hydraulic system employs pressurised liquid (such as oil) as the fluid medium whereas the pneumatic system
employs compressed air.

7. List any four advantages of using the fluid power.

Fluid Power is the use of fluids under pressure to generate, control, and transmit power.
- Ease and accuracy of control.
- High horsepower, low weight ratio
- Multiplication and variation of force.
- Constant force or torque.
- Low speed torque
- Simplicity, safety, and economy.
8. Name any four drawbacks of fluid power systems.
- A hydraulic element needs to be machined has to be high degree of precision
- Hydraulic fluid leakage poses many problems to the operations as well as operators.
- Flammable hydraulic fluids may pose fire hazards thus limiting the upper level of working temperature.
- Hydraulic elements require special treatments to protect them against rust, corrosion, dirt, etc. Otherwise
the contaminated elements may impair the system operation.
- Hydraulic oils are messy and almost highly flammable.
- Hydraulic fluids may pose problems if it disintegrates due to ageing and chemical deterioration.
9. List any four applications of fluid power in the manufacturing industry.
In manufacturing industry fluid power is widely employed for handling heavy loads or operate precise and often
repetitive tasks. Some of the examples are
- Hydraulic presses,
- Pneumatic hand tools,
- Hydraulic and pneumatic fixtures, and
- Pneumatic driven automatic indexing machine.
- In automotive industry for active suspension, brakes, and power steering.
10. List the applications of fluid power in agriculture and aviation industries.

11. What are the two main types of fluid power systems?
Hydraulics are often employed in heavy machinery, such as construction equipment, industrial
presses, and aircraft landing gear. Pneumatics, on the other hand, use compressed air or other
gases to transmit power.
1. Hydraulic power systems, and
2. Pneumatic power systems.
12. Why are hydraulic systems preferred for heavy work than the pneumatic systems?
Hydraulics is preferred, because the liquid medium used for its operation has a high mass density and is largely
incompressible. This means that hydraulics can develop much higher levels of pressure, and can use that pressure
to transmit the power that will drive systems and application. Also, The hydraulic power systems can generate
and transmit large torques and forces with high pressures to any part of a machine. That's why they are preferred
for heavy work.

13. Under what conditions pneumatic systems are preferred?

Pneumatic systems are preferred for low load and low power applications. The use of gas offers pneumatics
several advantages over hydraulics. Pneumatic systems are used extensively in mining and roof support
machinery. In the mining industry, safety is of the highest essential, and the use of pneumatic systems provides
high performance and minimum maintenance.
Examples of pneumatic systems and components
- Air brakes on buses and trucks.
- Air brakes on trains.
 - Air compressors.
- Air engines for pneumatically powered vehicles.
14. In comparison with hydraulic systems, why are pneumatic systems are suitable only for low
load and low power applications?
Since pneumatic pressures are quite low due to the compressor design, the pneumatic systems
are suitable only for low load and low power applications.
15. What is it not possible to obtain a precise actuator control in pneumatic systems?
Due to a high compressibility of air, it is impossible to obtain a precise actuator control in
pneumatic systems.
16. What are the major components of a hydraulic system?
A hydraulic system consists of a number of parts for its proper functioning. Regardless of its
function and design, a hydraulic system has a minimum number of basic components.
The main components of a hydraulic system are
- hydraulic pump,
- reservoir for hydraulic fluid,
- filter,
- actuator,
- accumulator,
- directional control valve,
- flow control valve,
- pressure relief valve, and
- pipes and fittings.

17. Describe the basic components of a pneumatic system.

Pneumatic systems use a variety of components to affect movement, as well as for control purposes. For efficient
movement and control, the following pneumatic system components include:
- Compressor – this is the part of the system that converts normal air into compressed air. Usually, the
compressor is powered by a diesel engine, and the pressurised air is stored at around 700-1000 kPa.
- Air reservoir – as the name suggests, this stores the pressurised air created by the compressor.
- Pneumatic control Valve(s) – these control the airflow to ensure that the air released is at the right
pressure level for the equipment being powered.
- Actuator – this is the part of the pneumatic system that turns the potential energy stored in the reservoir
back into kinetic energy and does the ‘work’. In a pneumatic system an actuator usually moves forward
and backward (or up and down), often through the use of a piston.
- Circuit – whilst a pneumatic system could be made up of a single valve, actuator, compressor and
reservoir, these are what the main components of a pneumatic system in its most basic form would be
comprised of but, more often than not, there is a whole circuit containing multiples of each, sometimes
all driven off a large, central compressor. In this situation, a circuit is formed with many interconnecting
parts made up of several (or many) of each of the above.
18. state the differences between hydraulic power and pneumatic power. (or) Compare
hydraulic and pneumatic drives for automation.( 2marks , 4 marks and 6 marks)

Hydraulic System Pneumatic System

A hydraulic system is a closed-loop system. Pneumatic System is an open-loop system.
It is robust in construction and maintenance cost It is simple in construction and maintenance cost is
is high. less.
The working fluid is hydraulic oil. The working fluid is air.
As oil is incompressible, it can be pressurized to Air is compressible and hence air can be
very high pressure. pressurized to lesser pressure.
 The system is bulky due to high pressure. The system is less bulky as compared to a hydraulic
system.
The accuracy of the system is high. The accuracy of the system is not high.
Hydraulic oil is flammable. Air is inflammable.
To protect against rust, the system needs special This system does not require any special attention.
attention.
Contamination control is required in this system. Contamination control is not required in this
system.
The power to size ratio is more. The power to size ratio is small.

Detailed answers:

1. (a) Distinguish between fluid transport and fluid power systems.

Fluid transport: Fluids are energy transfer medium which aids delivery of a fluid from one location to another
to accomplish some useful purpose. The three main transport properties: viscosity, heat conductivity, and
diffusivity help in fluid transport. Ex. pumping stations for pumping water into homes, cross- country gas
lines, and systems where chemical processing takes places as various fluids are brought together.

Fluid power: Fluid power is a term describing hydraulics and pneumatics technologies. Both technologies use
a fluid (liquid or gas) to transmit power from one location to another. With hydraulics, the fluid is a liquid
(usually oil), whereas pneumatics uses a gas (usually compressed air). (b) Briefly explain three basic methods
of transmitting power.

(B) What are the basic elements of fluid power system?

Fluid power is a term describing hydraulics and pneumatics technologies. Both technologies use a fluid (liquid or
gas) to transmit power from one location to another.

2. List down the advantages of fluid power systems.

Hydraulic systems are used for transmission of power through the medium of hydraulic oil. The hydraulic
system works on the principle of Pascal’s law which says that “ the pressure in a fluid at rest is transmitted
uniformly in all directions”.

3.

4. List out the applications of fluid power employed in different industries/fields

Hydraulic control units are used in a wide range of applications across many markets:
• Industrial - Material Handling, Light Industrial, heavy machinery control, safety from Hazard s
• Automotive - active suspension, brakes, and power steering.
• Aeronautics - Aircraft Ground Support, brakes, flaps, thrust reversers, flight controls, and of course, landing
gear
• Marine - steering, propulsion, Doors, Anchors,and thrusters
• Mining & Construction - mining rotary breaker, hydraulic jacks, Hydraulic Cranes, Lifting and digging
machineries
• Agriculture – Tractors, Harvesters and sprayers
• Leisure & Entertainment – Motor sports, Amusement parks, Cinemas and stages
• Waste Management – Garbage trucks, sorting machines (hazardous waste), waste recycling machines
• Disaster Management – rescue equipment, Gas cutting equipment, Cranes.

Name five hydraulic applications and five pneumatic applications.

Hydraulic applications:
Hydraulically powered Sky-tram.
Hydraulically controlled cutting platform in process of harvesting a field of soybeans.
Industrial hydraulic lift truck. Hydraulic-powered excavator.
Hydraulics control pitch and yaw of wind turbines.
Pneumatic applications:
Portable pneumatic power unit with a gas engine-driven air compressor.
Pneumatic impact wrench.
Pipe organ.
Air brakes on buses, trucks, and trains.
Dental drill.
Write the advantages and applications of fluid power with respect to machine tool applications.

Hydraulic and pneumatic systems share many benefits for the machines in which they are installed. These
include:

• high horsepower-to-weight ratio — You could probably hold a 5-hp hydraulic motor in the palm of your hand, but
a 5-hp electric motor might weight 40 lb or more.
• safety in hazardous environments because they are inherently spark-free and can tolerate high temperatures.

• force or torque can be held constant — this is unique to fluid power transmission

• high torque at low speed — unlike electric motors, pneumatic and hydraulic motors can produce high torque while
operating at low rotational speeds. Some fluid power motors can even maintain torque at zero speed without
overheating
• pressurized fluids can be transmitted over long distances and through complex machine configurations with only
a small loss in power
• multi-functional control — a single hydraulic pump or air compressor can provide power to many cylinders,
motors, or other actuators
• elimination of complicated mechanical trains of gears, chains, belts, cams, and linkages

• motion can be almost instantly reversed

5. Explain the various types of fluid power system.

The Fluid power system is divided in to two types. They are hydraulic and pneumatic system depends upon
the fluid medium used to transmit force.
The hydraulic fluid power system employs liquid (like as water, petroleum oils and synthetic oils) as fluid
medium. Hydraulic power systems are self-contained systems that are generally built for the single task of
converting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy. They work by applying the hydraulic flow and pressure
required to drive motors, cylinders and other complementary parts in a hydraulic system.
The basic principle behind any hydraulic system is based on Pascals law, which states ny force applied to a
confined fluid is transmitted uniformly in all directions throughout the fluid regardless of the shape of the
container.
Examples - Modern aircraft, for example, use hydraulic systems to activate their controls and to operate
landing gears and brakes. Virtually all missiles, as well as their ground-support equipment, use fluid power.
Automobiles use hydraulic power systems in their transmissions, brakes, and steering mechanisms.

The pneumatic fluid power system employs gas (Compressed Air) as the fluid medium. Pneumatic cylinders
or mechanical devices are designed to produce force using compressed air. Pneumatic systems use this
compressed air to create mechanical motion. They are commonly employed in various industrial and
domestic applications due to their reliability, cleanliness, and ease of control.
Pneumatics is based on Boyle’s ;aw which states that the relationship between pressure and volume of a gas
is known as Boyles law. which says that if you decrease the volume of a gas (put it in a smaller space), the
pressure will increase.
Examples – Air Brakes in Buses, Trucks and Trains, dental Drill, Vacuums Cleaner, Spray Cans, Safety doors,
Mining Drills.

With neat sketch explain the hydraulic and pneumatic fluid power systems.

1. Reservoir (or tank): A reservoir is an oil supply tank. It is provided to hold the hydraulic liquid (usually oil).
2. Pump: A pump is used to force the liquid into the system.
3. Prime mover: A prime mover, usually an electric motor, is used to drive the pump.
4. Valves: Valves are fitted in the system to control liquid direction, pressure, and flow rate.
5. Actuator: An actuator is provided to convert the liquid energy into mechanical force or torque to do useful
work. The actuator is the actual. working element of the system. The actuators can be either cylinders (to
provide linear motion) or hydro motors (to provide rotary motion).
6. Fluid-transfer piping: The hydraulic piping is provided to carry the liquid from one place to another.
• It may be noted that many different circuit designs are possible for a given application. However, most
industrial hydraulic circuits represent some variation in the design of basic components.
• The output of the hydraulic system can be determined by the manner in which the various components are
arranged.
Working: The schematic arrangement of the hydraulic cylinder is shown in Fig.. It consists of a movable piston
connected to the output shaft and two parts A and B. If liquid is pumped through port A, then the piston will
move up; and if the liquid is pumped through port B, then the piston will move down. Obviously, when the
pressurized liquid is pumped at one side of the piston, then the non-pressurized liquid on the other side of
the piston must be retrieved back to the liquid tank.
AC induction motor (M) drives the hydraulic pump (P), so that the fluid is pumped from the tank at the
required pressure. The fluid circulated into the system should be clean to reduce the wear of the pump and
cylinder; hence a filter is used immediate to the storage tank. Since the pump delivers constant volume of
fluid for each revolution of the shaft, the fluid pressure rises indefinitely, until a pipe or pump itself fails. To
avoid this, some kind of pressure regulator is used to spill out the excess fluid back to the tank.
Cylinder movement is controlled by a 3-position changeover control valve. One side of the valve is connected
to a pressurized fluid line and the fluid retrieval line; and other side of the valve is connected to port A and
port B of the cylinder. Since the hydraulic circuit is a closed one, the liquid transferred from the storage tank
to one side of the piston, and the fluid at the other side of the piston is retrieved back to the tank.
3. Positions of Valve
Raise: To lift the weight, the pressurized fluid line has to be connected to port A and the retrieval line has to
be connected to the port B, by moving the valve position to ‘raise’.
Lower: To bring down the weight, the pressurized fluid line has to be connected to port B and the retrieval
fluid line has to be connected to port A, by moving the valve position to 'lower'.
Off: The weight can be stopped at a particular position (height) by moving the valve position to 'off'. This
disconnects the port A and port B from the pressurized line and the retrieval line, which locks the fluid in the
cylinder.

Basic diagram of Pneumatic system

Air filter:
Air contains various impurities such as pollen grains, dust particulate, soot, etc. These impurities need to be
removed from the air before it enters a pneumatic circuit.
Air compressor:
As the name suggests the device used to compress the air is called an air compressor.
Generally, axial flow air compressors are used in pneumatic systems. These compressors have rotating blades
called impellers that rotate with the help of a motor.The impeller creates a vacuum that sucks the air via an
air filter. The pressure of air at the outlet of the impeller is more than the atmospheric pressure.
The ratio of outlet pressure to the inlet pressure of the compressor is called the compression ratio. The
compression ratio is different for different purposes.
Motor:
A suitable motor is used to run the compressor in a pneumatic system. The capacity of the motor depends
on the size of the compressor and the power required to run the compressor. The motor is directly connected
to the power supply.
Air cooler:
Air temperature increases when the air is compressed in the compressor. This hot air is not suitable for
further operation. Hence it is important to cool down the hot air coming out of the air compressor. The
cooling of air is done by an air cooler. The main objective of an air cooler is to reduce the temperature and
moisture content in the air coming out from the air compressor. There are two types of commonly used air
coolers.
Air-cooled air cooler.
Water-cooled air cooler.
Much lower temperature can be obtained by a water-cooled air cooler than the air-cooled air-cooler. As cold
water is available in large quantities, water-cooled air coolers are cost-effective and quick.
Storage reservoir:
A storage reservoir is an air pressure vessel used to store compressed air under high pressure. This storage
device ensures a smooth supply of pressurized air and eliminates fluctuations caused due to loading and
unloading of air demand. Storage reservoirs play an important role in pneumatic systems as they ensure quick
response to user demand. Storage reservoirs can store both dry and wet air depending on demand.
A storage reservoir must be strong, must have high tensile strength, and must be durable. Hence the
commonly used materials for storage reservoirs are Mild steel, Aluminum, Carbon steel, and Stainless steel.
Storage reservoirs have several parts. Each part is first cut down into its required dimension. These parts are
then assembled by welding and bending.
FRL unit:
The full form of FRL is ‘filter, regulator, and lubricator’ these three are generally used as one unit in a
pneumatic system, but can also be used as different individual units. FRL is an important component of a
pneumatic system as it reduces losses and increases the efficiency of the system. The three basic functions
of an FRL unit are as follows. To filter out the wastewater, contaminants, and debris from the air coming out
of the storage reservoir. This is done by filers and is generally the first step in an FRL unit.
The second function of the FRL unit is to regulate the pressure and restrict it from crossing the upper limit.
This is done by a pressure regulator. Pressure regulation is an important step as it prevents damage to the
system and also reduces unwanted losses due to high pressure.
The last stage of the FRL unit is air lubrication. In the air, lubrication is done by mixing a thin mist of oil or
other lubricants into compressed air. This is generally done after filtration and regulation. This lubricated air
reduces the friction between the moving parts of a pneumatic system and thus reduces the loss of energy an
increase the life of the equipment.
If an FRL unit is not present in a pneumatic system it would decrease the life of the system, increase the
energy consumption and reduce the efficiency of the system.
Directional control valve:
Directional control valves are the most important device used in a pneumatic system. The directional control
valves or DVCs are used to control the direction and the amount of air entering the actuators.
The valves transfer the pressure energy of air to the actuators as per the command given by the operator.
The generally used valve in a pneumatic system is a solenoid valve, also sometimes known as a spool valve.
These valves are operated by the action of a solenoid coil coupled with an electromagnet.
Actuators:
Actuators are devices that convert the pressure energy of fluid into mechanical movement. In the case of a
pneumatic actuator the fluid used is air. Actuators are the devices from which we get the results of pneumatic
systems. There are many types of actuators used in the industry. The actuators are classified based on the
motion achieved by them.
Linear actuators
Single-acting cylinders
Double-acting cylinders
Rotary actuators
Vane type
Rack and pinion type
6. What are the basic components that are required for a hydraulic system? Explain their functions.

Refer the question above

7. List out the advantages and disadvantages of hydraulic power system.

8. With a layout, explain the basic components of a pneumatic system. Also give their functions.

Refer the question above

9. Compare and contrast hydraulic, pneumatic and electromechanical power systems.
1. What is the function of a hydraulic pump ?
A hydraulic pump is a device which converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.
2. How can you classify pumps ?
1. Non-positive displacement pumps, and
2. Positive displacement pumps.
(a) Rotary pumps (such as gear pumps, vane pumps, and screw pumps)
(b) Reciprocating pumps (such as axial and radial piston pumps)
3. Where are non-positive displacement pumps employed? Why?
The non-positive displacement pumps are suitable for low-pressure, high-volume flow
applications. Since these pumps cannot withstand high pressures, they are used only for
transporting fluid from one place to another.
4. What do you mean by non-positive displacement pump? State its implications.
In non-positive displacement pumps, the fluid flow is achieved using the inertia of the fluid in
motion. Since these pumps cannot withstand high pressures, they are used only for transporting
from one place to another. For the same reason, they are not preferred in the fluid power
industries.
5. Why are centrifugal (or non-positive displacement) pumps not preferred for fluid power
applications?
Because the centrifugal pumps cannot withstand high pressures. Also they are suitable for low-
pressure high-volume flow applications.
6. What are positive displacement pumps? Why are they called so?
• The positive displacement pumps discharge a fixed quantity of fluid into the hydraulic system
per revolution of pump shaft rotation.
• Since the flow of fluid is guaranteed on every revolution of the shaft, this type of pump is named
as 'positive' displacement pump.
7. Name any four positive displacement pumps.
1. External and internal gear pumps.
2. Lobe and screw pumps.
3. Vane pumps.
4. Piston pumps.
8. Why are positive displacement pumps universally used in fluid power industries ?
Positive displacement pumps are primarily used where pressure development is the prime
requirement. This type of pumps is capable of delivering high pressure fluid, so it is universally
used in fluid power systems.
9. Name any four types of gear pumps used in hydraulic systems.
1. External gear pumps,
2. Internal gear pumps,
3. Lobe pumps, and
4. Gerotor pumps.
10. Why all the gear pumps are fixed displacement pumps ? (or) Why gear pumps cannot be
used as variable displacement pumps?
In gear pumps, the volumetric displacement depends on the design parameters (i.e., diameter
and width of gear teeth) of gears and they cannot be varied. So the displacement cannot be
varied in gear pumps.
11. What type of gears are generally used in gear pumps ?
The gears in the gear pumps can be of spur gear, helical gear or herringbone gear.
12. List the merits and demerits of gear pump.

Advantages
(i) These pumps are self-priming.
(ii) They give constant delivery for a set rotor speed, uniform discharge with negligible pulsations,
and do not require check valves.
(iii) If necessary, these pumps can pump in either direction (by changing the direction of the gear
rotation).
Disadvantages
(i) The liquid to be pumped must be comparatively clean.
|(ii) The pump cannot be operated against a closed discharge without damage. Hence relief
valves are required.
(iii) Variable-speed drives are required to provide changes in pumping rate.
13. How can you specify a pump ?
A pump can be specified by its capacity, discharge pressure, and speed of rotation.
14. Which pump external gear, internal gear, screw, vane and piston-generates the least noise?
Why?
Screw pump generates the least noise, because of rolling action of the screw spindles. Also in the
screw pump, the fluid does not rotate but moves linearly.
15. Why do screw pumps generate less noise while running?
Screw pump generates the least noise, because of rolling action of the screw spindles. Also in the
screw pump, the fluid does not rotate but moves linearly.
16. Name two designs of vane pumps.
1. Unbalanced vane pumps, and
2. Balanced vane pumps.
17. Differentiate between fixed and variable displacement pumps.
In fixed displacement pumps, the displacement of the pump cannot be varied by any means. But
in variable displacement pumps, the displacement of the pump can be varied by some suitable
arrangements.
18. When do you call a vane pump as a balanced or unbalance one?
A vane pump can be referred as unbalanced pump if all the pumping action takes place on one
side of the rotor. But the balanced vane pump has two intake and two outlet ports which are
diametrically opposite to each other.
19. What is a balanced vane pump?
The balanced vane pump has two intake and two outlet ports which are diametrically opposite
to each other. The two high-pressure zones balance the forces on the rotor shaft and hence a
complete hydraulic balance is achieved.
20. How can the unbalanced vane pump be used as a variable displacement pump?
In unbalance vane pump, the variable displacement can be provided by mechanically varying the
eccentricity.
21. What are the advantages of balanced vane pumps over the unbalanced vane pumps?
1. The balanced vane pumps eliminate the bearing side loads and thus permit higher operating
pressures.
2. The balanced vane pumps have much improved service lives over simpler unbalanced vane
pumps.
22. Give the symbol of variable vane pump.
23. Sketch the graphical symbol of variable displacement reversible pump.

24. What is a pressure compensated vane pump and how does it work?
Variable displacement can be provided if the housing can be moved with respect to the rotor.
This movement changes the eccentricity and hence the displacement. Usually a hand wheel or
pressure compensator can be used to move the cam ring to change the eccentricity.
25. Differentiate pressure compensated and non-pressure compensated pumps.
In pressure compensated pumps, the pump flow can be made to zero. Such a pump has its own
protection against excessive pressure build up. Also there is no power waste and reduced fluid
heading. Whereas non-pressure compensated pumps are hydraulically unbalanced and cause
undesirable side load on the bearings of the pump.
26. What are piston pumps ? Name the two basic types of piston pumps.
• In piston pumps, the pumping action is affected by a piston that moves in a reciprocating cycle
through a cylinder.
• Types:
1. Axial piston pumps, and
2. Radial piston pumps.
27. How can you vary the displacement in an axial piston pump?
The variable displacement in an axial piston pump can be achieved by altering the angle of the
swash plate (or offset angle). Because in axial pumps, this swing angle determines the piston
stroke and hence the pump displacement.
28. Differentiate between axial and radial piston pumps.
In axial piston pumps, the pistons move in-line or parallel to the shaft centre-line. But in radial
piston pumps, the pistons move perpendicularly to the shaft centre-line.
29. Define volumetric efficiency of a pump. Also write its significance.
• Volumetric efficiency is the ratio between the actual flow rate produced by the pump and the
theoretical flow rate that the pump should produce.

• Significance: The volumetric efficiency indicates the amount of leakage within the pump.
30. Define mechanical efficiency of a pump. What does it indicate ?
• Mechanical efficiency is the ratio between the theoretical power required to operate the pump
and the actual power delivered to the pump.
• It indicates the amount of energy losses that occur due to reasons other than leakages.
31. What is overall efficiency of a pump?
• Overall efficiency is the ratio between the actual power delivered by pump and the actual
power delivered to pump.
⸫η =η ×η
о vol mech

• It indicates the amount of energy losses by all means.

32. A positive displacement pump has an overall efficiency of 87% and volumetric efficiency of
93%, what is its mechanical efficiency?
Solution:

33. Draw the characteristic curve showing the relationship between discharge pressure and
rate of delivery of an external gear pump.

34. What do you mean by 'slip, in pumps ?

Slip is the leakage that occurs between the discharge and suction sides of a pump through the
pump clearances.
35. What is pump cavitation ? How can you avoid/eliminate it ?
• The formation, growth, and collapse of vapour filled cavities or bubbles in a flowing
• liquid due to local fall in fluid pressure is called pump cavitation.
• Pump cavitation can be avoided by ensuring that the suction pressure is always greater than
that required by the pump.
36. What is pump ripple?
Small variations of fluid flow that takes place during pumping due to some design problems are
called pump ripple.
37. A hydraulic pump has a flow rate of 75 lpm and is rated for a maximum pressure of 20,000
kPa. What is the maximum power output of this pump?
Given Data:
Q = 75 lpm = 75 × 10 m /m = 75 × 10 /60 = 1.25 × 10 m /s;
-3 3 -3 -3 3

P = 20,000 kPa = 20,000 ×10 N/m 3 2

Solution: Hydraulic power = P × Q = (20,000 ×10 ) (1.25 × 10 ) = 25 kW Ans.

3 −3

38. Name any four desirable characteristics of hydraulic pumps.

(i) Pumps should provide safe and maximum system working pressure.
(ii) They should have high volumetric and overall efficiency.
(iii) They should be compact and also have higher power-to-weight ratio.
(iv) They should possess the variable displacement control.
39. List some of the factors one should consider while selecting a pump for a specific
application.
(i) Safe and maximum operating pressure.
(ii) Maximum flow rate/delivery requirements.
(iii) Pump drive speed.
(iv) Type of control.
1. Distinguish between gauge and absolute pressures. Give the relationship between them.
If the pressure is measured with reference to the atmospheric pressure, then it is called gauge
pressure. The pressure measured with respect to vacuum is called an absolute pressure.
Relationship: Absolute pressure = Gauge pressure + Atmospheric pressure
2. State Pascal's law (or) State the basic law that is important in applying fluid power.
Pascal's law states that the pressure generated at any point in a confined fluid acts equally in all
directions.

3. Name any two applications of Pascal's law.

Pascal's law states that any pressure applied to a fluid inside a closed system will transmit that
pressure equally in all directions throughout the fluid. This law is the basic principle that causes
hydraulic power in heavy construction machines to work.

4. What is the purpose of a hydraulic press ?

The hydraulic press amplifies the hydraulic force in the hydraulic systems. That is, in a hydraulic
press a small input force is applied to generate a large output force.
5. What is the use of air-to-hydraulic pressure booster?
The air-to-hydraulic pressure booster is a device used for converting compressed air into the
higher hydraulic pressure, which is required for operating hydraulic cylinders.
6. Differentiate between laminar and turbulent flow.
• A laminar flow is one in which paths taken by the individual particles do not cross one another
and move along well-defined paths. The laminar flow is characterised by the fluid flowing in
smooth layers of laminae.
• A turbulent flow is that flow in which fluid particles move in a zig-zag way. The turbulent flow
is characterised by continuous small fluctuations in the magnitude and direction of the velocity
of the fluid particles.
7. What is Reynold's number? Write its significance with reference to fluid power systems.

where
ρ = Density of the liquid,
V = Velocity of flow,
D = Diameter of the pipe,
μ = Absolute viscosity of the fluid, and
v = Kinematic viscosity of the fluid.
Reynold's number is the basis for determining the laminar and turbulent flow. If Re < 2000, then
the flow is laminar; and if Re > 4000, then the flow is turbulent.
8. Name two causes of turbulence in fluid flow.
(i) More resistance to flow.
(ii) Greater energy loss.
9. If the temperature increases so that the fluid viscosity decreases, would the Reynolds number
increase, decrease, or remain the same?
Since Re = ρVD / μ = VD/ v, any decrease in fluid viscosity would increase the Reynolds number.
10. What is meant by flow rate?
Flow rate (or discharge) is the volume of the liquid flowing through a pipe in a specific period of
time. Mathematically, Q = V/t = A × V
11. State the continuity equation.
Continuity equation states as: "If no fluid is added or removed from the pipe in any length then
the mass passing across different sections shall be same". Mathematically,
AV =AV =AV
1 1 2 2 3 3

12. State Bernoulli's equation.

Bernoulli's equation states as follows: "In an ideal, incompressible fluid when the flow is steady
and continuous, the sum of potential energy, kinetic energy and pressure energy is constant
across all cross sections of the pipe." Mathematically,

13. List out the various energy losses when liquid flows through a pipe.
1. Major energy losses
This loss is due to friction.
2. Minor energy losses
These losses are due to:
(i) Losses in valves and pipe fittings.
(ii) Sudden enlargement/Contraction of pipe.
(iii) Bend in pipe, etc.
14. Explain the term friction factor.
Friction factor is a dimensionless number required to calculate the energy losses due to friction
in the pipe. For laminar flow, the friction factor 'f' is function of Reynolds number only whereas
for turbulent flow 'f' is a function of Reynolds number as well as the relative roughness of the
pipe.
15. Give the Darcy's equation. What is the use of it?
The Darcy's equation for the head losses in pipes is as follows:

The Darcy's equation is used to calculate the energy losses due to friction in the pipe.
16. Write down the Hagen-Poiseuille equation.
The Hagen-Poiseuille, to find frictional losses in laminar flow, is as follows:

17. Give the expression used to determine friction factor for laminar flow through pipes.
For laminar flow, the friction factor (ƒ) is function of Reynolds number only and is given by f =
84/Re.
18. Define the term relative roughness.
The relative roughness is defined as the pipe inside surface roughness (ɛ) divided by the inside
diameter of the pipe (D).
⸫ Relative roughness = ɛ/D
19. What is a Moody diagram? Write its use.
• The Moody diagram contains many curves. The curves indicate the value of friction factor as a
function of Reynolds number and relative roughness.
• The Moody diagram can be used to determine the friction factor for use in Darcy's equation.
20. Give the expression to calculate the loss of head in the valves and fittings of a pipe.
The loss of head in the various valves and fittings is given by :

21. Write the procedure to calculate the pressure drop in hydraulic circuits.
If the loss of head H1 is known, it can be expressed into equivalent pressure drop by using the
relation,

where
w = Weight density of oil flowing through valves and fittings.
oil

22. Name any three flow-measuring devices.

1. Rotometer,
2. Turbine flowmeter, and
3. Orifice flowmeter.
23. Name any two pressure-measuring devices.
1. Bourdam gauge, and, 2. Schrader gauge.
Important QUESTIONS
1. Write Pascal's law. Explain any one applications of Pascal's law with neat diagram.
Pascal's law states that any pressure applied to a fluid inside a closed system will transmit that pressure equally
in all directions throughout the fluid.
Pascal’s law establishes the relation between pressure and the height of static fluids. A static fluid is defined as a
fluid that is not in motion. When the fluid is not flowing, it is said to be in hydrostatic equilibrium. For a fluid to
be in hydrostatic equilibrium, the net force on the fluid must be zero.
Mathematically the pressure is given by the formula , P = F/A , Where, P is pressure, F is applied force, and A is
the cross-sectional area.

Example: The hydraulic lift is also an application of this law.

The pressure that is exerted in the column is given by, P = F1/A1. This is transmitted throughout the liquid, which
results in the pressure being applied on the other piston. The area of the other piston is A2, the force felt by this
piston is given by, P=A2 / F2

Now, as pressure throughout the liquid remains the same

F1/A1=F2/A2
Or F2= F1A2 / A1
The above example explains that the applied force is increased by the factor of A2/A1. This property helps in
hydraulic systems for lifting very heavyweights.
Solve: A liquid column transmits a pressure of 2000 Pa uniformly due to a force exerted on a piston. Given that
the area of the piston is 0.1 m², we aim to determine the force applied.
This calculation can be performed using the formula from Pascal’s Law:
F=PA , Where:
P is the pressure, given as 2000 Pa (N/m²),
A is the area, given as 0.1 m².
By substituting the values, we find: 𝐹 = 200 N
2. Explain the working principle of hydraulic press with neat sketch.
A hydraulic press is a mechanical device that uses the static pressure of a liquid, as defined by Pascal‘s principle,
to shape, deform, and configure various types of metals, plastics, rubber, and wood. The mechanism of a
hydraulic press consists of a mainframe, power system, and controls.

he components of a hydraulic press include two cylinders, two pipes, and two
pistons. One of the cylinders is the ram and the other is the plunger; they are
connected by a chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid.

Ram

In many hydraulic systems, several rams are used, the number of which
depends on the working load. Multiple small rams are preferred over a single
larger one to allow for better control over the thrust force. Fluid is supplied
to the ram by a pump and hydraulic accumulator that works between the
rams and the pump.
Accumulator
The accumulator stores hydraulic pressure as a fluid, which is released when required. The configuration of a
hydraulic accumulator is a cylinder with a piston that is spring loaded or pneumatically pressurized. The pump
continuously pumps hydraulic fluid into the accumulator to keep the pressure in it constant. The inlet of the
accumulator is attached to the pump, while the outlet is attached to the machine.
Without the accumulator, the pump would have to be continually running. The accumulator helps avoid this by
serving as a storage container for the energy needed to operate the machine.
Pump
The three types of hydraulic pumps are vane, gear, and piston with piston pumps being the most commonly used.
The pumps for a hydraulic press are a positive displacement pump, which means they deliver a constant amount
of fluid with each pumping cycle. The positive displacement pump can be fixed or variable with a fixed pump
working at a constant speed while a variable pump changes speeds and can be reversed.
The reason that piston pumps are best suited for hydraulic presses is their ability to perform in high pressure
hydraulic systems. The pump operates at large volumetric levels due to its low fluid leakage. The types of piston
pumps include axial, bent axis, and radial.
Cylinders
The number of cylinders in a hydraulic press varies according to its design. The function of the cylinders is to
generate the compressive force that drives the anvil and die. In a two cylinder design, the diameter of the cylinder
that carries the ram is larger, while the diameter of the second cylinder that carries the plunger is smaller.
Cylinders are metal pipes with two ports for the input and output of hydraulic fluid.
The cylinders are connected by a pipe containing hydraulic fluid. When the plunger in the small cylinder applies
pressure to the hydraulic fluid through a downward action, the created pressure is applied to the ram. The action
in the smaller cylinder by the downward movement of the plunger is that of a mechanical actuator used to
produce unidirectional force by a unidirectional stroke.
The process of a hydraulic press begins when a hydraulic fluid is forced into a double acting piston. The
compressive force inside the small hydraulic cylinder pushes the fluid into a larger cylinder where more force and
pressure are applied. The movement of the larger piston forces the fluid back into the smaller piston cylinder.
The passage of the fluids between the two pistons creates increased pressure that produces mechanical force to
drive the anvil on a hydraulic press downward onto a workpiece that is deformed to produce a desired shape.
Once the movement is complete, the pressure is released and the anvil returns to its original position.
3. Differentiate between laminar and turbulent fluid flow with examples.
Laminar flow and turbulent flow describe the movement patterns of fluids. Laminar flow is characterized by smooth,
orderly layers of fluid sliding over one another without mixing, ideal for scenarios where minimal resistance is desired.
Turbulent flow features chaotic, swirling patterns with irregular fluctuations, often causing increased energy
dissipation and mixing.
An example of laminar flow is the flow of water in a pipe. The water flows in parallel layers with no disruption between
them. An example of a turbulent flow is the flow of water in a river. The water flows chaotically around obstacles in
the flow.
4. What is Reynolds number? How is Reynolds number determined?
Reynolds number is a dimensionless quantity that is used to determine the type of flow pattern as laminar or
turbulent while flowing through a pipe. Reynolds number is defined by the ratio of inertial forces to that of
viscous forces.

Reynolds number is a dimensionless number hence it has no units

How is it determined

5. Explain how Bernoulli's equation can be used to determine the pressure drop between two stations in a
hydraulic system. Assume that there are some number of bends, tees, elbows, globe and gate valves in between
these two stations separated by a long distance.

Bernoulli’s principle states that

The total mechanical energy of the moving fluid comprising the gravitational potential energy of elevation, the
energy associated with the fluid pressure and the kinetic energy of the fluid motion, remains constant.
pressure drop is the difference in total pressure between two points in a fluid-carrying network. When a liquid
material enters one end of a piping system, and leaves the other, pressure drop, or pressure loss in the pipes,
will occur.

In general, the pressure drop is determined by multiplying the fluid velocity, the fluid density, and the head loss,
which is the equivalent of the pressure drop in terms of the height of the fluid.

Pl. Refer Dracy’s equation

6. Write short notes on Darcy's equation.

Darcy’s law equation describes the capability of the liquid to flow via any porous media like a rock. The law is
based on the fact according to, the flow between two points is directly proportional to the pressure differences
between the points, the distance, and the connectivity of flow within rocks between the points. Measuring the
inter-connectivity is known as permeability.
Darcy’s law describes the relationship between the instantaneous rate of discharge through a porous medium
and pressure drop at a distance. Using the specific sign convention, Darcy’s law is expressed as:

Q = -KA dh/dl

Wherein: Q is the rate of water flow, K is the hydraulic conductivity

A is the column cross-section area, dh/dl indicates a hydraulic gradient.
 10. List the various valves and fittings used in hydraulic systems. How to calculate frictional losses in common
valves and fittings.
There are three main types of hydraulic hose fittings: the O-ring, the mated angle, and the tapered thread
connectors. Other types are used in different and specialized applications, but those are the three most
common.

Friction may be observed as the resistance required for moving a body through the external surface. The Darcy
formula or the Darcy-Weisbach equation mainly tend to be referred for this computation.

Friction loss formula is: hl=f× L/D × v2/2g

Where,
• f is the friction factor
• L is the length of the pipe
• D is the inner diameter of the pipe
• V is the velocity of the liquid
• g is the gravitational constant
• hl is the friction lost
11.How losses take place in valves and fittings? Explain the significance of 'K' factor.
Energy losses occur in valves and fittings. Various types of fittings, such as bends, couplings, tees, elbows,
filters, strainers, etc., are used in hydraulic systems.

The nature of path through the valves and fittings determines the amount of energy losses. The more
circuitous is the path, the greater are the losses. In many fluid power applications, energy losses due to
flow in valves and fittings exceed those due to flow in pipes. Therefore, a proper selection of fitting is
essential. In general, the smaller the size of pipe and fittings, the greater the losses.
Pipe fittings, valves and bends usually have some associated K factor or local loss coefficient, which allows
the calculation of the pressure loss through the fitting for a particular fluid flowing at a specified velocity.
Manufacturers of pipe work fittings and valves often publish a fitting's associated 'K' factor.

Fluid head loss through a fitting can be calculated by the following equation:

h = K x v² / 2g

where
h = pressure loss in terms of fluid head, i.e. fluid head loss
K = manufacturer's published 'K' factor for the fitting
v = velocity of fluid
g = acceleration due to gravity

ANSI symbols for Components – refer here

https://mechdiploma.com/hydraulics-pneumatics-symbols