What is the function of the HPU?

HPU, or hydraulic power unit, acts as an "energy transfer station" in a mechanical system. If you compare the entire hydraulic system to a car, it's the engine; if you compare it to the human body, it's the heart.

Its core functions can be summarized as follows:

1. Pressure Generation: Turning "Stillness" into "Power"

This is the most basic function of a hydraulic power unit. It uses an electric motor or engine to drive an internal hydraulic pump, drawing hydraulic oil from the tank and compressing it forcefully. In this way, it converts ordinary electrical energy into a high-pressure fluid flow with enormous energy. Without it, the oil in the system would just be stagnant water.

2. Power Distribution: Directing the Oil Flow

The hydraulic power unit doesn't just spray oil; it also "navigates."
It's equipped with various valves, like a row of precise water taps.
It can decide whether the high-pressure oil should drive the cylinder on the left or the motor on the right.
It can also control the speed of movement, such as allowing the robotic arm to lower gently or lift quickly.

3. Safety Protection: Preventing Pressure Damage

When the machine is performing heavy work, if the force exceeds its capacity, it may burst the pipeline.
The hydraulic power unit has a built-in "safety valve." When the pressure reaches a dangerous critical point, this valve automatically opens, allowing excess oil to flow back to the tank, thus protecting the entire machine from damage due to excessive pressure.

4. Cleaning and Cooling: Maintaining System "Health"

High-pressure hydraulic fluid generates heat and carries away some fine wear debris during circulation.
Cooling Function: When the oil returns to the large tank of the hydraulic power unit, it can breathe slightly and dissipate heat.
Filtration Function: The filter in the unit acts like a "sieve," filtering out metal particles and dust from the oil, ensuring that the oil sprayed next time is clean and will not damage the machine.

5. Energy Storage: Always Ready

Some complex hydraulic power units are also equipped with an "accumulator" (like a small gas tank). When the machine is not working, it stores the pressure; once a burst of power is needed, it can be released instantly to give the pump a boost and make the operation more powerful.