Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System

How Hydraulics Keep Semi-Trucks On-Task

The hydraulic system is one of the most important systems in your heavy-duty vehicle. Without one, many of the tasks that truck drivers are able to complete while driving would be rendered impossible. If you've been wanting to learn a little more about the components that make up the hydraulic system in your commercial vehicle, then you're in luck! Our experts have taken some time to write the following article for those looking to enhance their knowledge on the subject of hydraulic systems. Read on to learn more!

What is a Semi-Truck Hydraulic System?

While each type of commercial truck serves a different purpose, they are all made with hydraulic systems that help to complete their regular tasks with efficiency. This system allows the truck to perform a wide range of tasks, from lifting heavy loads to operating various mechanisms. At its most basic, a hydraulic system uses fluid to create force or movement within the vehicle. At the core of the design that makes up a basic cylinder hydraulic system, movement is hindered by the length of the cylinder. Since this system is too simple for heavy-duty trucks, a more robust system is needed to exert maximum force and generate lift.

How Does a Hydraulic System Work?

Hydraulics use pumps to push specialized hydraulic fluid through the system. This creates fluid power that allows the transmission of force from the hydraulic pump to the desired component. Hydraulic fluid moves through the valves to the cylinder where hydraulic energy is changed back into mechanical energy.

The hydraulic pump creates pressure by displacing hydraulic fluid from the reservoir. As the fluid is pressurized, it travels through the system, ready for distribution. The control valves are designed to determine the flow of hydraulic fluid to the system's various components. By opening or closing specific pathways, they direct the fluid where desired, such as a lift mechanism or steering system.

Pressure relief valves are used to regulate the system's operation. These valves release excess pressure, preventing system damage or failure.

When hydraulic fluid is directed to a cylinder, it enters one side, then applies pressure to the piston. The resulting force moves the piston and extends the rod, allowing the cylinder to perform its intended function. Hydraulic systems are known for their ability to amplify force. Using varying cylinder sizes, the force the hydraulic pump generates can be multiplied, which lets your truck lift heavy loads with relative ease.

What are the Parts of a Hydraulic System?

For heavy-duty trucks, there are three main components that make up the hydraulic system. The wet line kit, power take-off (PTO), and hydraulic reservoirs are each designed to perform different functions within the system, making sure that fluid moves effectively to the appropriate parts of the system.

What is a Wet Line Kit?

When talking about wet line kits, we are referring to hydraulic hoses, tanks, reservoirs, control valves, and pumps. Wet Line are connected to the hydraulic system's power take-off system and are designed to be used in varying applications. There are two types of wet line kit to consider when you are choosing specifications or aftermarket parts for your truck: two-line and three-line kits.

1. Two-Line Kit: With a two-line kit, fluid travels back and forth using the same hose. In these types of kits, fluid will not run through a filter before returning to the system. This causes increased wear and tear on the hydraulic hoses and pumps.

2. Three-Line Kit: Choosing a three-line kit means that the system will use a independent return hose for the hydraulic fluid. The returning fluid passes through a filter and is cooled before it goes back to the reservoir. Thanks to the additional hose, wear and tear on the system is reduced and the cooler temperatures lower the possibility of a failure in the pump.

What is a Power Take-Off or PTO?

Ultimately, the PTO drives the hydraulic system in your commercial truck. Attached to the wheelhouse, the PTO is powered by the vehicle's drivetrain. When it is in use, a PTO will power up the hydraulic system as well as several additional systems that include:

· Air compressors

· Generators

· Pneumatic blowers

· Vacuum pumps

What is a Hydraulic Reservoir for Trucks?

The hydraulic reservoir in your truck's system holds residual fluid that's the hydraulic pump draws in. Trucks that need to exert force continuously will require a tank large enough to provide a steady source of fluid to the pump. Hydraulic reservoirs let heat exchange through the walls of the drum. This provides time for the heat to dissipate before the fluid goes back through the system.

Read More About Hydraulic Systems

Welcome to the perfect place for those ready to expand their knowledge about the hydraulic system in their semi-trucks. Our team of experienced specialists in the trucking industry has curated a compilation of articles below, aiming to provide you with insights into the system's individual components. Simply click on any of the links to delve deeper into the realm of hydraulic systems and their crucial contribution to your semi-truck's performance.

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Power Take-Off

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Fittings & Adapters

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Cylinders

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Pumps

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Gearboxes

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Cartridges

· Getting to Know Your Hydraulic System: Pistons & Rods

Shop Now For Hydraulic Systems!

If you want to buy a replacement part for the hydraulic system of your semi-truck, you're in a good situation. We offer great prices from well-known companies in the industry, so you can't make a mistake. To begin, simply complete our registration form, and you can start saving on your next hydraulic system part today. Sign up or log in now to explore the amazing hydraulic systems components we have available. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. Our customer service team is ready to assist you in any way possible!