Air Powered Hydraulic Pumps

Design and operating principle of air-hydraulic pumps

Air-hydraulic pumps typically consist of an air motor or air-hydraulic intensifier, a high-pressure hydraulic pump, a reservoir and a valve section. Compressed air drives the air motor, which in turn generates hydraulic pressure in the oil circuit via a pressure intensifying mechanism.

Depending on the model, the pumps may feature single or multiple pressure stages, integrated pressure relief valves and controls for extending, holding and retracting actuators (in double-acting systems). This allows precise and repeatable control of cylinders and tools.

Typical applications of air powered hydraulic pumps

Air powered hydraulic pumps are used wherever compressed air is available and recurring hydraulic tasks must be carried out, for example:

• lifting and clamping tasks in workshops and production
• driving hydraulic cylinders for installation and straightening work
• operating pullers and flange tools
• service and maintenance work in industrial plants
• use in areas where electric drives are limited or not preferred

Benefits compared to purely manual or electric pumps

• uses existing compressed air – no mains power required
• significantly less physical effort than with hand pumps
• constant working speed and repeatable cycles
• suitable for frequent lifting, clamping and pressing operations
• compact design, easy to move and flexible to position

Selecting the right air powered hydraulic pump

When choosing an air-hydraulic pump, the following aspects should be taken into account:

• maximum operating pressure and required oil flow
• available air pressure and air consumption
• reservoir volume versus total oil volume in the system
• type and number of connected actuators (single-/double-acting)
• duty cycle, noise level and environmental conditions

We are happy to help you select a suitable air powered hydraulic pump and to design a complete hydraulic system together with cylinders and tools.