Low pressure hydraulics using engine oil pressure

[lancer360]

I have an idea that I'm trying to see if it is practical to implement cheaply with off the shelf components or semi-custom components (i.e. custom cylinder stroke). Don't want to get into too much detail on the application, but the fluid power will come from engine oil with a minimum operating pressure of 20-25 psi and max around 100 psi. Oil temps can be as high as 250F. It will be stroking a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder stroke will be very short stroke say 1/2"-1" max. Flow rates will be low, maybe 5 gpm max. Cylinder will have to be controlled my a manual valve, spring centered, 4 way, 3 position, with P blocked and A&B tied to tank. I can't seem to find anything designed for low pressure, inexpensive hydraulic systems. I can't afford the cost or weight of typical 3000 psi hydraulic components. Are there any low pressure hydraulic component manufacturers? Are there any pneumatic cylinders and/or controls that can be used with oil instead?

 

[MikeHalloran]

For a one-off homebrew something, sure, some pneumatic valves will work fine. For production quantities, with a warranty, you may be on your own.

If you're going to bring potentially hot oil through the firewall, with 'cheap' plumbing, on someone else's vehicle, you will need a product liability lawyer eventually, so get one lined up soon.

Have you looked at the hydraulics for convertible tops?




Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[lancer360]

Application is on a personal race car. It will need to be reliable. Valve will mounted on or near the cylinder, operated by a push pull cable so no hot oil near the driver.

 

[dicksewerrat]

Log splitter parts would work.

Richard A. Cornelius, P.E.

http://WWW.amlinereast.com

 

[ivymike]

Are there any low pressure hydraulic component manufacturers?

Have a look at fuel system components?