This paper studies the proportional directional control valves design influence on the energetic behavior of a mid-power compact excavator.
In particular, with reference to the hydraulic circuit actuating the primary workgroup, in the paper the hydraulic power metering performed with the boom cylinder proportional control valve is studied, and some design solution useful in reducing both the hydraulic power dissipation, and the power absorption from the machinery prime mover are highlighted.
The analysis, experimentally performed for different operating conditions, is carried out highlighting the influence of a metering configuration both on the supply pressure modulation and on the flow-rate supplied to the actuator.
The hydraulic power metering and the boom actuation hydraulic efficiency are defined for two alternative proportional control valve metering configurations and, within the limits implicitly implied on the actuation circuit architecture, a possible design solution in determining the improvement of the boom actuation system performances is investigated.