How do you measure pressure in a hydraulic system?

Measuring pressure in a hydraulic system is a fundamental diagnostic and monitoring procedure, essential for ensuring the proper, efficient, and safe operation of machinery and equipment based on power hydraulics. Precise monitoring of this parameter enables early detection of abnormalities, optimization of performance, and prevention of failures.

Essential measuring equipment

The primary instrument used to measure the pressure of liquids and gases in hydraulic systems is a pressure gauge. There are various types of pressure gauges, as well as complete measurement kits designed to facilitate diagnostics.

Pressure gauges

• Standard pressure gauges: These are used to directly read the pressure at a specific point in the system.
• Glycerin pressure gauges: Filled with glycerin, which dampens pointer vibrations, making them useful in systems with fluctuating or pulsating pressure. They are often included in professional measurement kits and are designed to withstand harsh operating conditions.
• Diaphragm pressure gauges: Equipped with a diaphragm that separates the medium from the pointer mechanism. They are used in applications involving high overloads, pressure surges, or pulsations, as the diaphragm protects the mechanism from damage, providing overload protection of up to 10 times the measurement range. They are also suitable for measuring low pressures (e.g., 0–600 mbar) in liquids or gases with high humidity.

Measurement kits

Complete measurement kits are designed for precise pressure diagnostics in the hydraulic systems of machines and equipment. A typical kit consists of:

• Pressure gauges with various measurement ranges (e.g., 0–25 bar, 0–600 bar).
• Measuring leads of various lengths.
• Measuring fittings and quick-connect couplings that allow connection to various points in a system.
  These kits are widely used in hydraulic service centers, auto repair shops, the machinery industry, agriculture, and construction. They enable the measurement of hydraulic pump pressure, cylinder pressure, pressure differentials, as well as oil, fuel, and air pressure.

Fixed measurement points

In many hydraulic systems, pressure gauges and measurement ports are permanently installed. They facilitate both ad hoc and periodic monitoring of system operating parameters without the need to install equipment each time.

Applications of pressure measurement

Measuring pressure is essential in a variety of situations:

• Troubleshooting: The pressure reading can confirm malfunctions in the machine and help pinpoint the cause of the problem.
• System design and commissioning: Pressure measurement is essential during the design and initial commissioning of hydraulic systems.
• Periodic inspection: Regular measurements allow you to monitor the system's technical condition and prevent breakdowns.
• Operational monitoring: In some machines, such as hydraulic presses, the real-time pressure reading informs the operator of the current load.

Proper pressure measurement and interpretation of the results are the foundation of effective management and maintenance of power hydraulics systems.