Hydraulic Pumps

Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026

Specification	Details
Types	Gear pump, vane pump, piston pump (axial/radial)
Pressures	Gear: 200 bar, Vane: 250 bar, Piston: 400 bar
Standards	ISO 3019, ISO 4391
Brands	Bosch Rexroth, Parker, Eaton, Danfoss

What are Hydraulic Pumps?

Hydraulic pumps convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy to drive other components in a fluid power system. They're critical for generating the pressure and flow necessary for the operation of actuators, valves, and cylinders.

Types and Variants

Gear Pump: Gear pumps are simple and strong, suitable for low-pressure applications up to 200 bar. Typical dimensions range from 150 mm to 300 mm in length with a width of around 90-200 mm. They operate efficiently at temperatures between -40°C and +80°C.

Vane Pump: Vane pumps are ideal for medium-pressure applications up to 250 bar. These pumps have dimensions that can vary from 160 mm to 350 mm in length with a width of approximately 100-220 mm. They operate effectively at temperatures between -40°C and +90°C.

Piston Pump: Piston pumps are used for high-pressure applications up to 400 bar, making them suitable for demanding industrial environments. Dimensions typically range from 300 mm to 500 mm in length with a width of around 120-280 mm. They function reliably at temperatures between -40°C and +120°C.

Materials and Specifications

Materials used in hydraulic pumps include EN8 carbon steel for robustness, A2-70 stainless steel for corrosion resistance, and aluminium alloys like EN AW-6082-T6 for lightweight components. Standards such as ISO 3019 and ISO 4391 specify dimensions and performance characteristics. For example, ISO 4391 outlines testing methods for gear pumps to ensure consistent quality across manufacturers.

Selection Criteria

Choosing the right hydraulic pump involves assessing several factors:

• Pressure Requirements: Ensure the pump's maximum pressure meets or exceeds your system's needs.
• Flow Rate: Select a pump that can supply enough flow rate without exceeding system capacity.
• Efficiency and Durability: Gear pumps are more efficient at low pressures, while piston pumps offer higher efficiency under high-pressure conditions. Consider the expected lifespan and maintenance requirements.

UK Suppliers

MLC lists verified suppliers from Companies House, ensuring reliability and quality in hydraulic pump procurement. Major brands like Bosch Rexroth, Parker, Eaton, and Danfoss supply a wide range of hydraulic pumps to meet diverse industry needs. For instance, Bosch Rexroth offers axial piston pumps that can handle pressures up to 400 bar.

Common Applications

Hydraulic pumps are used in various industries:

• Construction Equipment: Excavators use gear and vane pumps for excavating, digging, and lifting operations.
• Manufacturing Plants: Injection moulding machines rely on high-pressure piston pumps to inject molten plastic into moulds efficiently.
• Aerospace Industry: Hydraulic systems in aircraft require precise control provided by high-performance piston pumps that can operate at extreme temperatures (-60°C to +125°C).

By selecting the appropriate hydraulic pump based on specific application needs and adhering to industry standards, engineers ensure optimal performance and reliability.