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How does a hydraulic motor work?

Whether you're a mechanical enthusiast or a weekend DIY enthusiast, we can all benefit from knowing more about hydraulic motors. Whether you're replacing a hydraulic coupling or buying a new motor, a general knowledge is essential. So, how does a hydraulic motor work? But first, what type of motor is it and what are its specific features? Follow the guide!

A hydraulic motor is an isothermal motor. Its function is to generate mechanical energy using hydraulic power. It is the transformation of hydraulic power into mechanical power that creates the conditions for its operation, which can be described as hydrostatic transmission.

The action of generating power in this way relies on fluid pressure. To do this, the engine does not work alone, so to speak. It is the combination of pumps, valves and other reservoirs that enable these fluids to be put under pressure. These fluids are then channelled into the engine to produce mechanical energy and keep it running. Depending on their nature and function, a motor can perform a rotary or linear movement.

Note that this transformation is reversible. This is a characteristic of most hydraulic motors.

There are four types of hydraulic motor:

  • Vane. These have a rotor fitted with blades, which, under the pressure of the fluid, causes the coupling shaft to rotate.
  • Axial piston. These pistons move under pressure and, as they rotate, force the journal to pivot by means of a linkage.
  • Radial pistons. Here, the pistons rotate on a cam, allowing several strokes to be available. The piston pushes on its connecting rod on the cam concerned and thus acts on the engine coupling shaft.
  • Geared. This has toothed wheels, one of which engages in the other to cause rotation when a fluid passes through them

Now that we have an overview of what a hydraulic motor is, let's look at how it works.

How does it work?

Despite the specific features of each type of motor, the principle remains the same. As we saw earlier, the aim is to convert liquid energy into mechanical power to drive the motor. It is then up to the motor to power the machine for which it generates the work force!

The differences lie in the speed of the motor. This is decided according to the intended use.

One example is the difference in motor dimensions. There are also mechanical differences in the pressure between the bearing and the intake. Finally, there will be a difference in the clearance between the internal moving parts found on the coupling shaft.

These are the parts at the heart of hydraulic conversion. The pressure differential causes these moving mechanical parts to move. This causes the motor shaft to move. From this point on, there are no major differences: the movement thus created is sent to a load. The mechanical energy generated is then transformed into the rotational movement of the output shaft. The motor is thus driven by mechanical energy and can do its job!

You now have a general idea of what a hydraulic motor is. You also have a general idea of how it works. You'll be able to find your way around and make the right decisions for your replacements and acquisitions!

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