Variable Flow Open Center Delivers Constant Efficiency

Variable Flow Open Center Delivers Constant Efficiency - Backhoe - Motion Systems Group

As hydraulic systems on construction equipment continue to evolve, the goal of increasing simplicity, reliability and productivity remains the same. Parker Variable Flow Open-Center (VFO) takes a big step towards realizing these objectives.

Typical Hydraulic System Layouts

The most common hydraulic systems on mobile equipment are based on two designs: an open-center valve technology with fixed displacement pumps or load-sensing (LS) valve technology with variable or fixed displacement pumps. Both of these arrangements have their benefits. The open-center system, for example, is simple, cost-effective and provides the operator with a less jarring operation.

Variable Flow Open-Center

Variable Flow Open-Center innovatively employs a variable displacement pump controlled by an open-center type valve. The result: VFO integrates the advantages of the current technologies (simplicity, cost-effectiveness, smooth operation) with the energy efficiency of piston pumps.

Variable Flow Open Center delivers constant efficiency graph

VFO In Brief

The distinct value of the Variable Flow Open-Center system can be seen from several perspectives:

Simplicity: There are no compensators and shuttle networks (Open-Center Valve Technology).

Reliability: In general, less complexity means more dependability (Open-Center Valve Technology).

Productivity: The system optimizes the energy balance of variable-pump technology.

Applicability: It can work with any valve control type without the need for electronics.

Parker is a global leader in motion and control technologies and a pioneer in the Variable Flow Open-Center (VFO) system.

For in-depth details on our Variable Flow Open-Center, download the white paper. And for additional construction equipment content from Parker, visit www.parker.com/buildingbetterlives.

Article contributed by Germano Franzoni, Ph.D., Senior Systems Engineer, Parker Hannifin Corporation, Global Mobile Systems.

Variable Flow Open Center Delivers Constant Efficiency Germano Franzoni Article contributed by Germano Franzoni, Ph.D., Senior Systems Engineer, Parker Hannifin Corporation, Global Mobile Systems.