Hydrostatic drives are superior means of power transmission when
variable output speed is required. Hydrostatic drives are very popular
as compared to electrical variable-speed and mechanical drives and
gear-type transmissions. This is because they maintain precise speed
under different loads, offer fast response and allow infinitely variable
speed control from zero to maximum. Advantages of Hydrostatic Drives
- Hydrostatic drives require up to 40% less energy than hydraulic designs due to their parallel running drives.
- They have lower maintenance and superior reliability.
- They are unmatched in terms of strength and traction.
- Power for the system is provided by a constant pressure variable volume pump that ensures full torque at any speed.
- They are specifically engineered for a lifetime of low-speed, high torque operation - operating equally well in either direction.
- Unlike gear transmissions, hydrostatic drives have a continuous power curve without valleys and peaks.
- Hydrostatic drives can increase available torque without shifting gears.
The dual path hydrostatic drive is also engineered to maintain a 2:1 power ratio speed when steering. Each side has components sized to accommodate high horsepower so larger blade loads can be pushed through curves and the operator can easily compensate for blade draft.
Applications
They are widely used in double drum vibratory roller. The machines with these hydrostatic drives are popular for asphalt works like construction and maintenance of pavements, shoulders, walking and cycling tracks, access and parking areas, sports and playgrounds, forestry and estate roads. They are used for digging chain and cutting wheel drive motors. Other applications include drives for conveyor and auger system, marine winches and mining equipment. They are used in continuous operation in a wide range of heavy-duty drive applications.
Popularity of Hydrostatic Drives
Early hydrostatic drives were designed to be primarily used in low-cost applications such as farm equipment and garden tractors. Today with improved designs, specially in controls, have made these drives suitable for a broad range of applications. A major drawback of such drive has been higher cost compared to their mechanical counterparts. Inspiteof this manufacturers continue to boost performance levels, produce lighter and smaller packages, and offer advanced electronic controls. These factors now make hydrostatic drives an economical and popular choice for many applications.