Hydraulic Test Loop for Nonflammable Hydraulic Fluid

摘要

A test stand was constructed to evaluate the suitability of the non-flammable hydraulic fluid, chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) for Army applications. The test loop consists primarily of stainless steel and elastomers suited to the CTFE fluid. A 150-hp electric motor, capable of speeds from 0 to 1800 rpm drives a 40 gpm, 4500 psi, variable displacement hydraulic pump. The test apparatus features a 'bootstrap' reservoir that utilizes the output pressure of the pump to pressurize the inlet to the pump to the required 80 psi. The reservoir also serves to dose the system to the atmosphere, a requirement to prevent exposure of the hydrophilic fluid to atmospheric water. Durability of the current pump on CTFE fluid was limited. However, the rig can be retrofitted with CTFE compatible pumps if required. The rig is completely instrumented to measure shaft horsepower delivered to the pump, fluid flows and pressures and temperatures. A personal computer is used for data acquisition and control of the drive motor and system hydraulics. Conceivably any hydraulic component i.e. valves, actuators, or pumps could be performance and autonomously endurance tested on this test stand.