NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What type of pump is typically found in hydraulic systems?

1. Axial piston pump

2. Positive displacement screw pump

3. Centrifugal pump

4. Diaphragm pump

The correct answer is: Positive displacement screw pump

In hydraulic systems, the most commonly used pump type is the axial piston pump. This pump functions by using the motion of pistons to pressurize and move hydraulic fluid, making it ideal for applications that require controlled fluid movement and high pressure. Axial piston pumps are favored in hydraulic systems because they provide excellent efficiency and a high power-to-weight ratio. They can operate successfully at varying speeds and pressures, making them suitable for a wide range of hydraulic applications. This capability allows for precise control of hydraulic components, which is essential in the operation of machinery and equipment that rely on hydraulics. While positive displacement screw pumps can also be employed in certain industrial applications, they are less common in standard hydraulic systems when compared to axial piston pumps. Centrifugal pumps, while often used in other fluid movement scenarios, do not provide the necessary pressure characteristics needed for hydraulic systems, as they work on the principle of converting kinetic energy to pressurize the fluid, rather than displacing a set volume. Diaphragm pumps are typically used for specific applications such as transferring chemicals or in cases requiring sensitivity to shear forces, but they are not standard in hydraulic systems. Understanding the functions and applications of these different pump types is essential for proper hydraulic system design and operation