The flow rate is the amount of hydraulic fluid that flows through a line or component in a given time - measured in litres per minute (l/min). It is one of the key variables in any hydraulic system as it can be directly linked to the performance of pumps, valves and actuators.

A stable and sufficient flow rate ensures that cylinders extend and retract and that the desired work is carried out. If the flow rate drops even though the system pressure remains constant, this may indicate wear, blocked lines or components or leaks.

Flow measurements are carried out for various reasons:

• Maintenance and servicing: checking pump performance, detecting wear

• Commissioning of new systems: comparison of actual and target values

• Troubleshooting during operation: localising power losses or blocked cables

• Leakage control: Detection of internal losses in cylinders or motors

• System optimisation: Adjustment of volume flow limiting valves or variable displacement pumps

There are various ways to measure the volumetric flow, depending on the requirements and system design:

• Temporary measurement with mobile flowmeters

• Stationary measurement with permanently installed sensors and data acquisition

• Direct measurement via flow sensors

• Indirect methods via pressure and temperature changes (less accurate)

The choice of method depends on factors such as accuracy, measurement duration and ambient conditions.

At STAUFF, we offer the right measuring technology for every requirement with our flow measurement turbines for hydraulic hand-held measuring devices.

The measuring turbines convert the volume flow into an electrical signal, which is transmitted to a hand-held measuring device in digital or analogue form via a cable. These signals can be conveniently recorded in the hand-held measuring device and flow curves can be generated. We offer different flow turbines that deliver accurate measurement results to match the flow rate range.

Our STAUFF experts have put together a few tips for you to ensure that nothing goes wrong with your next measurement:

• Measurement under load: Reliable values can only be determined under real operating conditions.

• Take temperature into account: Viscosity influences the volume flow - therefore also measure the temperature.

• Note the sensor position: Ideally, the volume flow should be measured directly downstream of the pump or upstream of the valve block.

A constant flow rate is a prerequisite for the performance of hydraulic systems. With the right measurement technology, malfunctions can be detected at an early stage, maintenance intervals optimised and system efficiency increased. STAUFF components offer a practical, reliable tool for this - whether mobile or stationary.

Newsletter registration

Register now and don't miss any new posts!