In our training we look at how accumulators can reduce the size of a hydraulic pump, in applications where you get varying flows and times of no flow. We have created a simulation that has an accumulator, that when fully charged energises a pressure switch and diverts the pump flow back to tank at low pressure.
In the circuit there is an accumulator for supplementing flow and one for reducing the pressure spike during the loading cycle. Those eagle eyed will have noticed the prefill valve drawing fluid from the tank to the main press cylinder.
There is a lot in this circuit, from pump unloading to prefill valves, which demonstrate the practical use of hydraulics. Whether in an aircraft, F1 car or on a hydraulic press, hydraulic principles remain the same.
