Fluid Power and Hydraulics Overview

Study Notes

An introduction to Pneumatic Systems is covered
The following pneumatic components are explored - Air Production System and Air Consuming System

Actuators: These are components that convert pressurized fluid energy into mechanical motion, such as linear actuators and rotary actuators
Directional Valves: Control the direction of fluid flow and are essential for directing the hydraulic fluid to the actuators, ensuring smooth and controlled movements
Auxiliary Valves: These are valves that support the primary functions, providing safety features and controlling the speed of fluid flow

There are multiple basic circuits covered including flow, amplification, signal inversion, memory, delayed switching on and off, and pulse on

The Rest Position: Deals with the default position of the system when no power is applied
Circuit Lay-out and Guidelines: Standardizes the way components are arranged in a diagram, ensuring readability and consistency
Motion and Step Diagram: A specific type of diagram used to visualize the flow of a moving object
Sequence Charting: A comprehensive chart that shows the order of operations

Direct and Indirect Control: These are methods of controlling the movement of a system using electrical signals
Logic Functions: Refer to how signals are processed and combined to create a specific output, allowing for complex sequences and control
Dominant Set/Reset Memory: This feature allows a system to remember its previous state after a brief power interruption
Time Dependent Control: Includes functions that depend on timing variables and can schedule events based on set intervals

Electrical Circuit Diagrams: Standardized drawings depicting the electrical connections of devices in the system
Graphical Symbols: Essential for understanding the components and functions within a circuit
Circuit Diagram Structure: Features designation codes to identify devices for easy tracing and troubleshooting

Applications of Hydraulics: Explores various real-world applications of hydraulics across industries
Hydraulic Fluids: Covers the different types of fluids used in hydraulic systems, including their properties and characteristics
Hydraulic Power Generation and Transmission: Explores the mechanisms and processes used to generate and transfer hydraulic power
Standard Hydraulic Symbols: Teaches students to understand and interpret the symbols used in hydraulic circuit diagrams
Hydraulic Working Elements: Focuses on the key components responsible for converting hydraulic energy into mechanical motion and other functions
Hydraulic Valves and Components: Covers the various types of valves used to control hydraulic flow and pressure, and how they operate
Electro-Hydraulic Controls: Integrates electrical components and sensors into hydraulic systems for more sophisticated control

Allocation/Assignment: The process of assigning specific functions to individual components within a relay control system
Negation (NOT Function): A basic logic function that inverts the input signal (creating a "NOT" condition)
Direct Electrical Actuation: The control signal directly powers the system load, providing a simple connection
Indirect Electrical Actuation: An intermediary relay is used to actuate the load, offering isolation between the control and power circuits
AND Function: A logic function where the output signal is only activated when all input signals are active
OR Function: A logic function where the output is activated when at least one of the input signals is active

Dominant-ON: The output signal is activated even if an "off" signal is received, maintaining that state
Dominant-OFF: The output signal is deactivated if an "off" signal is received, overriding any "on" signals
Double Solenoid Valves: Can store the signal and maintain the valve's position, allowing for precise control and memory functions

Fundamentals of Electro-Pneumatics/Hydraulics: Explains the core principles that govern the operation of such systems
Industry Elements: Introduces key components commonly used in the industry, outlining their characteristics, functions, and symbols
Design, Build, and Maintenance: Equip students the skills to design, construct, and maintain electro-pneumatics/hydraulic systems, promoting independent problem-solving