Benefits of custom hydraulic power units

If you’re in need of a hydraulic power unit but can’t find the right one for your application, a custom HPU is likely the best solution for you.

When it comes to any hydraulic system or component, there’s very rarely a one-size-fits-all solution and power units are no different. In almost all cases, investing in a custom designed hydraulic power unit will be far more beneficial than a standard off-the-shelf solution.

Before we delve into the advantages of investing in a custom HPU over a pre-configured design, we’ll answer one of the most important questions…

What is a hydraulic power unit?

Also known as a hydraulic power pack, a hydraulic power unit (HPU) is a self-contained unit that transmits power to drive other components in a hydraulic system, such as a motor or cylinder.

For hydraulic systems that require a greater level of power, a HPU is an essential alternative to an integrated power supply. The units are portable and don’t require the need for access to a power source, making them ideal for outdoor applications and those regularly moving around on-site.

Check out one of our previous blogs to find out more about how a hydraulic power unit works.

Now, when it comes to choosing a hydraulic power unit for your application, there are two main options: a pre-configured unit that’s ready to purchase, or a custom designed unit.

In many cases, a custom hydraulic power unit is going to be the most suitable option. As all applications have different requirements, a pre-configured HPU is unlikely to meet all of these design and performance specifications simultaneously.

When opting for a custom HPU, you should of course expect a longer lead time and likely a greater investment involved. However, there are many advantages to taking this route as opposed to purchasing an off-the-shelf model.

Here are some of the key benefits of hydraulic power units.

Custom performance specifications

Undoubtedly one of the most important elements of a custom HPU is that it provides full control over the design specifications. This gives greater flexibility and adaptability than a pre-configured unit, as they can be designed to meet the changing demands of any application.

No matter the scale and complexity of your application, it’s imperative that you have the right sized HPU to do the job. Some applications may require a HPU with a reservoir that’s larger or smaller than a standard configuration, so with a custom build you won’t have to settle for oversizing or under sizing – it can be scaled to your exact requirements.

Custom dimensions

Not only does the capacity need to be correct for your application, but you’ll need to consider the size of the unit in relation to the size of the space you have available. Standard HPU’s will come in fixed sizes with no room for adjustment, which means you may need to rearrange your work area to make it fit.

When choosing a custom HPU, you’ll be able to configure both the size and orientation that will best fit your space, along with the performance specifications you need. This allows for greater space utilisation and limits any upheaval to your existing operations.

Portability

A key advantage of using hydraulic power units in the first place is that they are portable and aren’t fixed to the system. With a custom HPU, you’re able to take its portability one step further and customise its mobility set-up.

Having full control over its design means you can opt for configurations such as it being attached to a moving machine, vehicle-mounted, skid-mounted, or built for use on a wheeled cart depending on the demands of your application and site restrictions.

Enhanced performance

Hydraulic power units are critical components for improving the performance and efficiency of your application. As custom HPUs are designed to meet the specific needs of your application, this means that they can be tailored to meet the flow, pressure, and horsepower requirements of the application, resulting in improved performance.

Improved energy efficiency

Improving the energy efficiency of a hydraulic system is critical for businesses looking to reduce operating costs. Hydraulic power units are a great way to do this, but a custom build may be able to offer even more energy-saving features.

Custom HPUs can be designed with features that increase energy efficiency such as energy-saving systems and reduced cycle times. Power management systems can also be installed to automatically adjust the flow and pressure of the unit to match the demands of the application, therefore making the unit more energy-efficient and reducing overall power consumption.

Greater control

When using a HPU to power your hydraulic system, the way the unit is controlled can have a significant impact on the efficiency of your operations. Standard HPUs will be pre-fitted with a basic control system, but you’ll likely find a more suitable option with a custom build.

Designing a custom hydraulic power unit means you can choose the exact control solution including valving and controls that will benefit your system the most. Units can be designed so that they’re remote-controlled (wireless or wired), or use a central processing controller or manual lever controls to operate. Some may even be operated through a smartphone or tablet.

The flexibility of a custom control panel with manual override options can help to improve the ease and efficiency of your operations, therefore increasing overall performance levels.

Reduced maintenance costs

When operating a custom hydraulic power unit, you may find that it typically requires less maintenance than any of your standard HPUs. This is because they are designed to meet the specific requirements of that particular application, meaning that it’s fully accustomed to the power, flow and speed of your system.

This generally ensures a more consistent level of performance and efficiency, therefore reducing the likelihood of component failure and more simplified maintenance procedures.

Purchasing a custom hydraulic power unit

Your search for a robust and reliable custom hydraulic power unit designed to your exact specifications needs to go no further than Derek Lane & Co. We’ve been creating bespoke hydraulic solutions for over 40 years, and can effectively design everything from large-scale power units to diesel-powered units for mobile applications.

We design hydraulic systems using 3D CAD design systems which enables complete vision and tailored specifications to customer requirements. Our engineers incorporate the most up-to-date control technology using PLC controllers and electronic drive controllers and ensure that efficiency is built into the hydraulic power unit at every stage.

If you’re looking for an established partner to serve your bespoke hydraulic needs, get in touch with Derek Lane & Co.