For close to 40 years, we’ve operated in the world of hydraulic engineering, working with many businesses to deliver custom hydraulic equipment. On one occasion, we were even invited by a well-known vehicle manufacturer to design a hydraulic-contained power unit to enable quieter refuse collection for refuse vehicles.
We’ve always welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with other industry experts. So when a client in Switzerland asked us to design and prototype a Hydraulic Barrel Manipulator for them, we jumped at the opportunity to partner up with local material handling equipment manufacturer Mechandling.
By dividing the workload, we were able to play to both companies’ strengths. At Mikrospin, our fully qualified hydraulics engineer Adrian Griffin designed the hydraulics, delivering 4 double-acting hydraulic cylinders and a power unit capable of powering the prototype. The power unit in question was a single-phase 4 pole-motor 0.75kw, flange coupling assembled to a manifold with a fixed displacement gear pump.
Some more specifics from Adrian’s design of the Hydraulic Barrel Manipulator include:
- A load hold check valve and adjustable pressure relief valve.
- A hydraulic circuit designed with 3 ‘Cetop 3 Offset 24V’ solenoid valves and system pressure gauge.
- The first of the valves is a single solenoid, normally open unloading valve.
- The second and third valves are double solenoids, powering each pair of cylinders in and out.
- The latter valves are then controlled by 2 separate flow dividers to equalise the speeds of each pair.
- Both valves also have meter outflow regulators to finetune speeds.
With the designs completed and the hydraulics supplied, controls supplied by Siemens, Mechandling took on the prototyping. This involved building the finishing product seen below:
Looking for something bespoke? We have the expertise to design and manufacture specialist hydraulic systems to suit your requirements. Whether you’re operating in the food and pharmaceutical industries, transport and logistics, or something completely different, we can help you! Get in touch with our experienced team of hydraulic engineers today.