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What is the purpose of the hydraulic accumulator?

A hydraulic circuit is made up of different components, each with a specific role to play. All of them need to be closely monitored in this machinery, to ensure that the whole works properly. One of these components is a hydraulic accumulator. What role does it play in this complex whole? That's what we're going to find out together. Today we'll be asking ourselves the following question: what is the purpose of the hydraulic accumulator?

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE HYDRAULIC ACCUMULATOR

This part first appeared in the 19th century. At the time, it was used mainly in lock gates, swing bridges, port equipment and railways. But with the development of hydraulic dams during the industrial revolution, it gradually established itself as a key component in both large and small hydraulic circuits. Today, they can be found everywhere. But what does it do? How does it work? That's what we're going to find out together.

What is a hydraulic accumulator used for?

A hydraulic accumulator, also known as a pressure accumulator, is first and foremost a reservoir. Its main function is to store a variable volume of fluid. This is often pressurised gas or oil, which is stored and then redistributed according to energy requirements. It is also a safety component that can, if necessary, be used to operate emergency controls. For example, if you need to brake, complete a movement, etc. The fluid contained in a hydraulic pressure accumulator is used to provide a high flow rate over a short period. It can also provide a small flow, until there is no pressure at all.

What does a hydraulic accumulator look like?

A hydraulic accumulator is an oval or cylindrical receptacle, depending on the model chosen. This shape enables it to fulfil its role as a reservoir, since it must be able to hold the fluid under pressure, as we saw earlier. There are several types of hydraulic accumulator, all relatively similar in shape.

- The bladder hydraulic accumulator is ingeniously designed to gradually replace nitrogen with oil and vice versa as the circuit requires.

- The diaphragm hydraulic accumulator has the advantage of being able to store up to 3.5 litres, and has high compression ratios. However, some models cannot be dismantled, which can complicate circuit maintenance.

- The hydraulic piston accumulator has the advantage of being able to store large volumes, up to more than 1,000 litres.

All are made up of a chamber with two ports separated by a sealed element. The accumulator must be able to hold the oil and the gas (nitrogen) separately. This separation is ensured by a watertight membrane or by a piston, depending on the preferred model.

How should a hydraulic accumulator be maintained?

This can vary depending on the quality of the part. However, regular monitoring is recommended, with periodic inspections every 4 years. It is also recommended that you change your hydraulic accumulator every 10 years, to ensure that the entire circuit is working properly. In addition, the gas (in this case nitrogen) must be topped up every year. Be sure to check that the pressure is zero before carrying out any work on the accumulator. In all cases, it's best to call in professionals to check that the entire circuit is working properly and that your accumulator is in good condition.

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