Hydraulic Reservoir
A hydraulic reservoir is not just an oil store; it separates air, sheds heat to the atmosphere, and settles heavy particles to the bottom. In stationary installations it is common for the volume to be 3-5 times the flow rate per minute, and on mobile equipment 0.5-1.5 times because of space constraints. A baffle placed between the suction and return lines prevents short circuiting.
The internal layout of the tank directly affects performance. The return line must terminate below the oil level; oil falling freely from above picks up air and foams. The suction inlet is typically kept 50-75 mm above the bottom so that it does not draw up settled sediment.
- Baffle: it lengthens the distance between suction and return, giving the oil time to release air and to cool.
- Level gauge: the level must not drop below the minimum even when the cylinders are fully extended.
- Breather: the tank breathes as the oil level changes; this air must pass through a filter.
On mobile equipment the tank is small, so the oil both heats up faster and has less time to release its air. If, after moving to electronic lever control, a tendency emerges to use the machine longer and with fewer interruptions, it is worth monitoring oil temperature; a rise in temperature lowers viscosity and changes the control feel as well.
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