Introduction to Hydraulic Systems

The first lesson identifies the basic components of an industrial hydraulic system and explains their functions. Formulas, including Pascal’s Law, are presented and their use in determining values in a hydraulic system is explained.

Hydraulic Schematics

This lesson introduces the schematic symbols that represent the basic components of a hydraulic system. It explains the use of color-coding used to identify pressure and how to identify the flow path through the system using schematics.

Hydraulic Fluids

This lesson discusses the types, properties, and functions of hydraulic fluids and the components in which they are used.

Hydraulic Pump Applications

This lesson discusses the various hydraulic pumps and their applications. It also describes symptoms of pump malfunction.

Positive Displacement Pumps

This lesson describes various positive displacement pumps and their components. The lesson explains some of the causes of system inefficiencies associated with fixed volume pumps and describes applications in which variable volume pumps are used.

Hydraulic Accumulators

The sixth lesson describes the common accumulators and their schematic symbols. It also describes the application and operation of an accumulator in a hydraulic system. Safety considerations for depressurizing and pre-charging an accumulator are discussed.

Pressure Control Principles

The seventh lesson describes the functions of a pressure relief valve in a hydraulic system and the conditions necessary for normal operation of a pressure relief valve. Pressure characteristics, the relationship of pressure and flow, and depressurization are also discussed.

Pressure Control Operation

The eighth lesson presents various pressure control valves, their operation, and components.

Pressure Control Valve Applications

The ninth lesson describes the proper operation of pressure control valves used in various applications.

Directional Control Principles

The tenth lesson describes various directional control valves. The lesson explains the function of the ports on a directional control valve and instructs the process of tracing the various flow paths through the valve. The lesson also describes the centering conditions and piloting arrangements commonly used with directional control valves.

Flow Control Valves (FCV)

The eleventh lesson demonstrates how to determine speed and flow rates and differential pressure. It describes various valves, their components, and their uses.