Hydrostatic Systems for Saving Energy

Manufacturers of mobile equipment are continuously concerned with improving their machines. In the past, the bulk of the machine systems design work has been directed toward faster time cycles or improved controllability. Recent increases in the cost of energy have caused some effort to be directed at improved fuel efficiency. Although initial efforts have been in the area of improved components, improved system designs can also contribute substantially toward reduced energy usage.

This paper will examine the relationship of system components and compare alternate hydrostatic transmission systems for relative efficiency. Fortunately, traditional concerns about productivity can also be addressed by some of the same system changes.