Many industries work with hydraulic systems on a daily basis, including agriculture, automobile, construction, and even cheese manufacturers – yes, really! In fact, hydraulics are part of everyday life and almost every industry has a use for them. They are a necessity to keeping so many industries flowing smoothly. But one type of hydraulics system is not suitable for all.
With hydraulics, there are two conditions that are required – flow and pressure. Each of these can be controlled using two different system designs – open center or closed center. The difference between these is the construction of the directional control valve as well as the type of hydraulic circuit being used within the system.
In an open center system, the flow is continuous and pressure is intermittent, whereas in a closed center system the flow is intermittent and the pressure continuous.
If you’re unsure, MCH Hydraulics can help you to choose the right system for the job, as we can cater to all specialist requirements.
Open Center Hydraulics
In an open center system, the pump turns and the flow is activated, which is then directed back to the tank through a central passage within the directional control valve. When one of the directional control valve’s spools is stroked, the flow is focused toward a load and pressure is created. Once the pressure exceeds the load, the load moves and the hydraulic work is performed.
Closed Center Hydraulics
In a closed center system, the flow is also activated when a pump turns but only enough flow will be produced to keep the pump lubricated and to achieve a standby pressure at the directional control valve. When a spool is stroked in this system, a passage is exposed for the flow to enter while a pressure signal is sent from the directional control valve to the pump. This signal tells the pump to produce the flow needed to do the hydraulic work.
Which Hydraulics System Is More Cost-Effective?
The fixed displacement pump that is used in an open centre system makes this a cheaper option initially, but in the long run a closed center system is likely to be more cost-effective. A closed center system does use a more expensive variable displacement pump, but because it’s not constantly in use it’s more efficient. Meaning that it uses less energy and will cost you less in fuel.
Whichever system you use, it’s important to keep them properly maintained. This will save money in the long run and ensure your system performs at its best.
We have the knowledge, expertise and skill, to guide you to the right solutions and are experts in maintaining and servicing hydraulic machines. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your requirements, please get in touch.