Hydraulic systems

Although the hydraulic systems used aboard vary widely. They may, however, be
grouped into the three basic set ups.

Constant flow

For a constant flow pump it is possible to vary the flow to a load by

varying the outlet from the load.
The major components are the fixed delivery pump, unloading valve,
and accumulator.

The accumulator consists of a steel pressure vessel within which is a

rubber bag. The space between the bag and the steel walls is filled with nitrogen
at a set pressure. When the constant delivery pump is started, oil is supplied to
the accumulator inflating the bag with oil against the nitrogen pressure.
When the set system pressure is reached the unloader valve will open
maintaining system pressure at a set amount. The check valve maintains the
pressure in the accumulator giving a ready reserve on demand. An alternative to
this is to have a pressure cut out switch for the pump with a suitable dead band
to prevent cycling.
When a throttle or control valve is opened the accumulator supplies
oil to the load, the pressure above the check valve drops, the valve opens, the
unloading valve begins to close and oil is supplied through the check valve.
A common use for this system is for valve opening/closing.

Constant pressure

Uses one or more variable delivery pumps which supply oil at nearly
constant pressure to either a system of multiple loads or a single load such as a
hydraulic elevator hoist.
When the pumping capacity exceeds load requirements, the system
pressure increases above a set value, at which point the pressure compensator
acts to take the pump off stroke. A relief valve is fitted in case of malfunction of
the compensator.
Fluid flow to the load may be controlled by a variety of methods one
of which is the simple three position valve shown.
This system suits an installation containing several high demand units
such as deck winch hydraulics

Demand system

The demand hydraulic

system is a closed loop system particularly adapted to meet the precise demands

of varying loads such as steering gear and automatic weapons handling

equipment. The variable and reversible delivery pump does not take suction from
a sump tank, as a loop of oil is maintained between the main pump and the load.
The closed loop eliminates pressure drop which would exist if the load control
were achieved by a servo valve located in the main hydraulic piping. A servo
pump and replenishing pump are driven off the same shaft as the main pump,
provide actuating fluid to stroke the main pump and to provide make up fluid to
the closed loop, respectively. Control of the main pump is accomplished by
command and feedback signals. The command and feedback signals may be
composed of a combination of mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic devices.
This system is able to deliver a reasonably precise flow of oil which
makes it suitable for equipment where finite speed control is essential. An
example other than those given above could be an anchor handling windlass.