Hydraulic power units

Measuring instruments for hydraulic power units

Hydraulic power units (HPUs), sometimes referred to as hydraulic power packs, are the workhorses in numerous industries. These standalone systems supply the necessary power to operate everything from machine tools and lifting platforms to wind turbines and carnival rides.

A hydraulic power unit generally consists of a motor, a fluid reservoir, and a pump. Its primary purpose is to convert mechanical power into hydraulic energy in the form of flow and pressure to drive cylinders, motors, valves, and other components. Most HPUs operate under extreme conditions and require robust, reliable measuring instruments to keep them operating safely and efficiently.

Pressure instruments for hydraulic systems

Mechanical gauges like the 213.53 are an economical way to display the pressure of various hydraulic components within the system. Since HPUs and other hydraulic components can produce significant amounts of vibration and shock, liquid case filling enables flutter-free readings while protecting the gauge’s moving parts from wear and tear.

Pressure sensors allow for precise control and continuous monitoring of valves, cylinders, motors, and other hydraulic components. An electronic pressure sensor like the A-10 provides standard industrial analog output signals. For greater flexibility and control, use an electronic pressure switch like the PSD-4, which offers a combination of switching outputs, analog or digital output signals, and a large programmable LED display for easy readability of localized pressures. As an option, a restrictor or snubber can be added to the pressure port of all instruments to protect them from damaging pressure spikes.

Level instruments for hydraulic reservoirs

Hydraulic reservoirs need to hold enough fluid to supply flow to all the hydraulic consumers like accumulators and cylinders. Float switches like the RLS-1000 and level transmitters like the RLT-1000 continuously monitor the fill level of reservoirs to prevent hydraulic pumps from dry running and drawing air into the system, which could cause cavitation. Custom stem lengths are available for various reservoir sizes. For extra functionality in compact HPU designs, there is the option to add an integral RTD or temperature switch to the level instrument.

Temperature instruments for hydraulic systems

For optimal lifespan of the hydraulic power unit, operators should closely monitor and control the fluid temperature. An economical way to read the hydraulic fluid’s temperature is to insert a temperature gauge, like the TG53 bimetal thermometer, into the hydraulic reservoir.

To automatically control cooling or heating systems for the HPU, use an electronic temperature sensor or switch. The TFT35 is a compact temperature sensor that provides a standard industrial analog output signal. For greater flexibility and control, use an electronic temperature switch like the TSD-30, which offers a combination of switching outputs, analog or digital output signals, and a large programmable LED display for localized temperatures. All temperature instruments have an integrated thermowell and are available in different stem lengths for optimal fit and performance.

WIKA, Smart in Sensing for Hydraulic Power Units

For more than 75 years, WIKA has supplied high-quality measurement solutions for manufacturers of hydraulic power units and other hydraulic systems. We also offer approvals, such as UL, FM, and CSA, for specific operating conditions or installation locations. Contact our experts for more information about long-lasting measuring instruments for your HPUs.