Comparison Between Hydraulic Gear Pump and Axial Piston Pump

[MikePhua]

Hydraulic pumps are the heart of hydraulic systems, providing the required flow and pressure. Common types of hydraulic pumps include the hydraulic gear pump and the axial piston pump. While both types have their advantages, they differ significantly in terms of performance, efficiency, and application. This article compares hydraulic gear pumps with axial piston pumps, helping you understand their pros and cons, and how to choose the right pump for your needs.
Hydraulic Gear Pump Overview
The hydraulic gear pump is one of the most common and economical types of hydraulic pumps. It operates by meshing two gears to move the fluid. The working principle of this pump is simple, and it is cost-effective for medium to low-pressure hydraulic systems.

1. Advantages
   • Lower Cost: The simple structure of the gear pump makes it relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
     
   • Durability: Gear pumps are known for their high reliability and ability to perform well in harsh environments.
     
   • Easy Maintenance: Due to its simple design, gear pumps are easy to maintain and repair.
     
2. Disadvantages
   • Lower Efficiency: Gear pumps are generally less efficient than axial piston pumps, especially under high pressure, where efficiency losses become more noticeable.
     
   • Higher Noise: Gear pumps tend to generate more noise during operation because of the vibrations and friction caused by the meshing of the gears.
     

Axial Piston Pump Overview
The axial piston pump uses pistons to move fluid. The pistons are located in a rotor, and as the rotor rotates, the pistons push the fluid outward. This pump is typically used in high-pressure hydraulic systems and can provide higher efficiency and pressure.

1. Advantages
   • Higher Efficiency: Compared to gear pumps, axial piston pumps are more efficient, especially at high pressure and flow rates.
     
   • Lower Noise: Axial piston pumps operate with less noise because the motion of the pistons is smoother, and they do not generate as much vibration and noise as gear pumps.
     
   • Better Adaptability: Axial piston pumps are suitable for more demanding applications and can handle higher pressures and more complex hydraulic systems.
     
2. Disadvantages
   • Higher Cost: Due to their complex design and manufacturing process, axial piston pumps are generally more expensive than gear pumps.
     
   • More Complex Maintenance: The more complex structure of the axial piston pump makes maintenance and parts replacement more difficult and costly compared to gear pumps.
     

Choosing the Right Hydraulic Pump
When selecting a hydraulic pump, the first consideration should be the system's required operating pressure and flow rate. If the system needs to operate at high pressure for extended periods, an axial piston pump may be the better choice, as it provides higher efficiency and stable performance. For applications with lower pressure and flow, a hydraulic gear pump may be more cost-effective due to its lower price and simple maintenance.
Conclusion
Both hydraulic gear pumps and axial piston pumps have their advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications. Hydraulic gear pumps, with their simple structure, reliability, and low cost, are ideal for low to medium-pressure applications. On the other hand, axial piston pumps excel in high-pressure, high-flow applications due to their efficiency, lower noise, and better adaptability. By understanding the specific requirements of your hydraulic system, you can make an informed choice between the two types of pumps to optimize system performance and stability.