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The Power of Hydraulics Through the Ages

April 30, 2023

The Power of Hydraulics Through the Ages

From ancient Egypt to modern-day industrial machinery, hydraulics has been used in a variety of contexts throughout history. As a concept, it dates back thousands of years and has been used to power everything from water wheels to spacecraft. Let’s take a look at the use of hydraulics throughout history and explore how this powerful force has shaped the world as we know it today.

The Use of Hydraulics in Ancient Egypt

The earliest known use of hydraulics was by the ancient Egyptians who used them to power their waterwheels. Waterwheels were essential for grinding wheat and other grains into flour, as well as powering irrigation systems and pumps. This allowed them to maximise crop yields and create a reliable food supply. By harnessing the power of hydraulic pressure, they were able to make their civilization one of the most advanced in the world during its time.

Hydraulic Machinery During The Industrial Revolution

By the 18th century, hydraulic technology had become an integral part of industry and manufacturing. Hydraulic systems were used in factories to power machines such as lathes and presses, allowing for faster production times and higher output levels than ever before. In addition, hydraulic brakes were fitted on steam locomotives, providing more efficient stopping distances than mechanical brakes could provide. Hydraulic power was also crucial for creating large-scale engineering projects such as canals, bridges and dams which helped shape the infrastructure that still stands today in many parts of Europe and North America.

Modern-Day Uses Of Hydraulics

Today, hydraulics are used in a wide range of industries including construction, mining, agriculture, oil & gas extraction and aerospace engineering. Advances in technology have allowed for more efficient use of hydraulic systems with smaller components that can generate more power with less energy consumption than ever before. They are also often found in heavy machinery such as excavators or bulldozers where they provide precise control over the machine’s movements while still generating enough force for difficult tasks such as digging or lifting heavy objects. In addition, hydraulic systems are increasingly being used on aircrafts where they provide control over landing gear deployment or braking systems without adding significant weight to the craft itself.

As we can see from its development through history, hydraulics is an incredibly powerful force that has shaped our world since ancient times. Its ability to generate immense amounts of power with relatively small components makes it perfect for powering a variety of different machines from waterwheels to spacecrafts; something which humans have taken full advantage of throughout history up until today! With advances still being made constantly in this field we can only wonder what new applications will be discovered next!

Featured Product

Power Team – Counter Balance Valve

Application: Double-acting cylinders. Provides positive holding and controlled, “chatter-free” lowering of a load.

Operation: Load is raised at flow rate of pump, and held when pump is shut off. When the pump is shifted to “retract,” the counter balance valve will continue to hold the load until system pressure exceeds pressure caused by load. The load can then be lowered smoothly to the flow rate of the pump. The counter balance valve is designed to operate with pumps having a high pressure flow rate of up to 120 cu. in./min. (1,9 l/min.) and cylinder ratios of 3 to 1.

CAUTION: The 9720 patented counter balance valve has a pilot pressure as high as 3,000 psi (210 bar). Because this pressure is applied to the rod end of the cylinder while it is already under load, the system should not be sized for loads greater than 80% of cylinder rated capacity.

CAUTION: To prevent sudden, uncontrolled descent of a load as it is being lowered, use a Load Lowering Valve (No. 9596) or Counter Balance Valve (No. 9720) in conjunction with the directional valve used in your application.

9720 – Counter balance valve, including two male and two female half two hydraulic hoses, fittings and dust caps.

9721 – Same as 9720, but does not include couplers, hoses, fittings and dust caps.

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About TJI Solutions.

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SPX Powerteam & Suppliers Of Norbar Products.

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TJI Solutions specialise in the Sale, Hire and Repair of hydraulic torque and tensioning equipment along with hand, pneumatic and electric torque tooling.

With our extensive knowledge of the industry we are committed to customers supplying innovated solutions alongside commercial initiatives which are complimented by outstanding customer service 24/7 365 days a year. As a close knit family business, we are extremely proud of our moral values and commitment to take personal responsibility for your needs.