A hydraulic system consists of a supply pressure Ps and a lo

A hydraulic system consists of a supply pressure, P_s, and a long fluidfilled
tube. Branching from the tube is an accumulator, C_a, consisting of a
compliant gas separated from the fluid by a diaphragm. The long tube has
inertia and resistance, I_f and R_f . Sketch the volume flow
rate of the fluid into the accumulator, Q_a, and in the tube, Q_I, as a function
of time.

Solution

A hydraulic accumulator stores fluid under pressure and can serve a number of functions within a hydraulic system. I´s an item that can provide years of trouble-free service.

Accumulators can take a specific amount of fluid under pressure and store it. The fluid is then released when it´s required to perform a specific task in the hydraulic system. Accumulators can provide several functions, such as:

Adding an accumulator to a hydraulic system offers a number of advantages. In addition, it results in substantial energy savings and an increased system lifespan. Applications that require a lot of power for limited periods of time can benefit most from the use of accumulators.

Applications that utilise large flows at high speeds may use accumulators for energy storage. When required, the accumulator pushes fluid into the hydraulic circuit to add to the pump flow. When the actuators in the hydraulic system are not in motion, the accumulator will refill. Accumulators can also operate as energy sources during normal operation of the system (i.e. cushioning).

Accumulators that are weight- or spring-loaded can also be used in industrial applications. For example, a gas-pressurised hydro-pneumatic accumulator, which has a gas-tight separating element, is most commonly used. Without a separating element, the fluid can absorb gas. The gas used is nitrogen; this prevents danger of explosion in case of leakage of the bladder, diaphragm or piston.

How DTA Can Help You:

DTA supplies hydraulic accumulators from several renowned vendors. Along with our strong knowledge of the hydraulic market, we can also provide you guidance and suggestions to ensure all accumulators are properly maintained and safe to use.

Note that accumulators are pressure vessels and, as such, are manufactured, tested and certified according to statutory standards.

Different Types of Hydraulic Accumulators

Accumulators basically comprise of two compartments: one of the compartments is filled with gas; the other compartment, which is connected to the hydraulic circuit, is filled with fluid. The accumulator shell is made of carbon steel, stainless steel or aluminium. Depending on separating elements, we can distinguish three types of hydraulic accumulators:

We also provide a variety of accumulator accessories for your convenience and safety. Note that the most common type of accumulator employed in modern hydraulic systems is the nitrogen gas-loaded type.