10 - Hydraulic circuit design and analysis

Abstract

This chapter presents all the symbols used in hydraulic schematics, the various hydraulic circuits, the hydraulic schematics, and a hydraulic circuit for performing a desired function. The chapter analyzes the function of each hydraulic circuit in an application and discusses hydraulic schematics, hydraulic circuits, and the various terminologies associated with them. A hydraulic circuit comprises a group of components such as pumps, actuators, control valves, and conductors arranged to perform a useful task. When analyzing or designing a hydraulic circuit, the following considerations must be taken into account: safety of operation, performance of the desired function, and efficiency of operation. It is very important for a fluid power technician or a designer to have knowledge of each of the hydraulic components and their functions in a hydraulic circuit. Hydraulic circuits are developed by using graphical symbols for all of the components. Therefore, it is pertinent to know that the symbols of every component used in a hydraulic system. The chapter discusses the symbols that conform to the American National Standard Institute standards. The chapter also presents various hydraulic circuits such as control of a double acting hydraulic cylinder, regenerative circuit, pump unloading circuit, counterbalance valve application, hydraulic cylinder sequencing circuit, fail-safe circuits, speed control of a hydraulic motor, and mechanical hydraulic servo system.