Forklift pilot oil circuit accumulator

What is the purpose of the accumulator?

The accumulator stores pilot pressure oil for use at the main control valves. During multiple operations, the pilot system will demand more oil in order to maintain valve operation. The accumulator provides pilot pressure oil to the pilot system, when the pilot pump flow is inadequate. Inadequate flow will cause sluggish implement control.

What does the accumulator do with the pressurized oil?

When the operations are completed, the pump pressurizes the oil into the accumulator which stores the oil under pressure for further use. The system generally has an oil reservoir, a pump, an accumulator, pipelines, and valves.

What is a hydraulic accumulator?

Hydraulic accumulators make it possible to store useable volumes of non-compressible fluid under pressure. A 5-gal container completely full of oil at 2000 psi will only discharge a few cubic inches of fluid before pressure drops to 0 psi.

Where are accumulators typically installed?

When installed in shock prone areas of hydraulic circuits, accumulators serve as pressure shock dampening devices. The pressure of fast-moving hydraulic circuits can produce pressure spikes that cause shock when flow is stopped abruptly as well.

How does a lift accumulator work?

A lift accumulator works by storing hydraulic fluid pumped from the pump during the downward movement of the lift. This stored energy is then used to power the lift when it moves upwards.

Why do accumulator circuits have flow controls?

Accumulator circuits normally have flow controls because there is a volume of oil at elevated pressure that can discharge almost instantaneously. Placing a flow control at the accumulator outlet allows free flow from pump to accumulator and adjustable flow to system. Figure 1-10. Click on image for larger view.