Integrated pump and reservoir

22 September, 2016

In the unlikely event of a complete ‘Knock Down’ (where a boat can finish up on its side and even under water), particularly in sailing yachts, the new sealed reservoir prevents spillage of hydraulic fluid. The unit can also be mounted at any attitude.

Compact solution

The new combined pump and reservoir, ‘PR+RU’, can be used with both balanced and unbalanced cylinders and does away with the need for extra hoses to reservoirs and ancillary unloading valves. Incorporating the same integral reservoir and unloader valve already proven in the ML+40 range of integrated actuators, the result is a cost-effective compact solution for hydraulic secondary steering systems.

The unloader valve is only energized when steering in autopilot mode. When steering manually it allows the steering fluid to flow freely around the hydraulic circuit with the minimum of back drive on the helm. The two service ports are mounted on the front of the pump and there is a further optional reservoir port on the top face accessed via a removable plug. This port also facilitates the simple filling and bleeding operation.

Fitted with zero-leakage pilot check valves

This permanent magnet DC motor driven precision gear pump is available as 12v or 24v in a range of flows from 600cc to 2500cc. Each pump is fitted with zero-leakage pilot check valves for positive locking of attached cylinders. The motors are maintenance-free, IP67 and have internal brushes giving typically 4000+ hours life.

The front and rear bearings are sealed ball races for smooth and quiet operation. The pumps are sealed on the driven gear journal allowing the motors to be removed and replaced without air entering or oil loss from the hydraulic circuit.

Whilst the Hy-ProDrive pump range was originally aimed at the marine secondary steering market and is widely used by major autopilot manufacturers like Raymarine, Garmin, B&G and Coursemaster, the pumps are now finding favour in other industries. Small mobile applications, where power is limited, such as snow-blowing machines, sports car suspension and even dentist chairs are seeking out these ultra-quiet gear pumps.

www.hypro.co.uk