08-19-2025, 09:27 PM
The Kobelco SK160LC hydraulic excavator is widely respected for its robust design and efficient performance in medium-duty digging and material handling operations. One important hydraulic specification for this model is the auxiliary oil flow rate, which directly impacts the efficiency and compatibility of hydraulic attachments such as breakers, grapples, and augers.
Auxiliary Oil Flow Basics
The auxiliary oil flow rate refers to the volume of hydraulic fluid the excavator’s hydraulic system can supply to attachments through auxiliary hydraulic circuits. These circuits are critical for the operation of tools that require hydraulic power separate from the excavator’s main functions.
For the SK160LC, total hydraulic pump output is approximately 75 gallons per minute (GPM). Since the hydraulic pump is divided into different sections for various functions, each sectional flow typically delivers about 37.9 GPM to auxiliary circuits on either the boom or arm.
Understanding Flow Distribution
A demolition contractor running a SK160LC with a hydraulic breaker found the breaker’s impact frequency dropped during prolonged use. Inspection confirmed the breaker’s required flow rating was on the upper limit of the SK160LC auxiliary flow. By installing a flow control valve and limiting duty cycles to avoid overheating, the contractor extended the breaker’s service life and optimized machine attachment efficiency.
Summary
The Kobelco SK160LC delivers an auxiliary oil flow rate of about 37.9 GPM per hydraulic pump section feeding auxiliary circuits, supporting a wide range of hydraulic attachments. Matching attachment requirements with the machine’s hydraulic flow specifications is crucial to sustained performance and attachment longevity. Proper hydraulic system maintenance and flow control enhancements can further optimize operational productivity in diverse jobsite conditions.
Auxiliary Oil Flow Basics
The auxiliary oil flow rate refers to the volume of hydraulic fluid the excavator’s hydraulic system can supply to attachments through auxiliary hydraulic circuits. These circuits are critical for the operation of tools that require hydraulic power separate from the excavator’s main functions.
For the SK160LC, total hydraulic pump output is approximately 75 gallons per minute (GPM). Since the hydraulic pump is divided into different sections for various functions, each sectional flow typically delivers about 37.9 GPM to auxiliary circuits on either the boom or arm.
Understanding Flow Distribution
- The SK160LC uses a dual-pump hydraulic system splitting flow into main functions like boom lift, swing, and travel, plus auxiliary functions.
- The auxiliary flow on one section is roughly half of the total pump output, approximately 37.9 GPM.
- Hydraulic attachments connected to the auxiliary circuit receive flow from this section, so their required flow ratings should match or fall below this capacity for optimal operation.
- Flow can be modulated with electro-hydraulic controls or manual flow control valves to suit precise attachment needs.
- Attachments such as hydraulic breakers or augers designed for flow rates well above 37 GPM may experience reduced performance or overheating if used continuously.
- Operators should consult attachment flow specifications and consider flow control upgrade options from Kobelco dealers to maximize attachment compatibility.
- Proper hydraulic fluid maintenance, including filtration and timely oil changes, helps sustain high flow efficiency and avoids cavitation or system damage.
- Auxiliary Oil Flow: The hydraulic fluid delivery to attachments outside the main boom and travel functions.
- GPM (Gallons per Minute): The flow rate unit measuring how much fluid passes through per minute.
- Hydraulic Pump Section: A division of the main hydraulic pump assigned to specific functions or circuits.
- Electro-Hydraulic Control: An electronic system that controls hydraulic valve operation for precision flow and pressure control.
- Flow Control Valve: A valve used to adjust the flow rate delivered to hydraulic attachments.
A demolition contractor running a SK160LC with a hydraulic breaker found the breaker’s impact frequency dropped during prolonged use. Inspection confirmed the breaker’s required flow rating was on the upper limit of the SK160LC auxiliary flow. By installing a flow control valve and limiting duty cycles to avoid overheating, the contractor extended the breaker’s service life and optimized machine attachment efficiency.
Summary
The Kobelco SK160LC delivers an auxiliary oil flow rate of about 37.9 GPM per hydraulic pump section feeding auxiliary circuits, supporting a wide range of hydraulic attachments. Matching attachment requirements with the machine’s hydraulic flow specifications is crucial to sustained performance and attachment longevity. Proper hydraulic system maintenance and flow control enhancements can further optimize operational productivity in diverse jobsite conditions.
