How does a hydraulic jack work? Firstly, a hydraulic jack is a device used to lift heavy loads by applying force. There are a wide variety of jacks available on the market, some jacks are portable and can be carried in your car depending on what range you are using. Jacks are put into categories based on force generations mechanisms. At ATC, we have a wide range of hydraulic jacks including Multi-Purpose Aluminum Jacks, Plain Piston, Lifting Claw and Locking Rim Jacks, Solid Piston Jacks, Hollow Piston Jacks and Steel Machine Lift Jacks. We also specialise in hydraulic pumps, hydraulic cylinders and more.
Hydraulic jacks have a variety of applications in lifting platforms, railways, mining, defense, hydropower plants, earth moving equipment, aeronautical and material handling equipment. Hydraulic jacks have an even and stable transmission movement which means that they provide increased lifting capability over a further distance.
How does a hydraulic jack work?
Hydraulic jacks use the power of fluid to operate. Hydraulic jacks can lift heavy loads with very little force. The hydraulic jack is a mechanical arrangement that uses a cylinder for applying the first initial power. The fluid is stored in a container which is then distributed evenly in all directions.
The most important aspects to ensure a hydraulic jack works effectively is the cylinder, pumping system and hydraulic fluid. The type of hydraulic fluid used is based on a selection of properties such as hydrolytic stability, filterability, viscosity, and thermal stability. The correct hydraulic fluid is essential for the hydraulic jack to work at maximum performance, along with self-lubrication and a smooth process.
Hydraulic jacks are designed with one small and one big cylinder connected by piping’s. Both cylinders store the hydraulic fluid. By applying light pressure on the small cylinder, the fluid will then be transmitted to the large cylinder. The larger cylinder will then experience a force multiplication effect. The larger cylinder will produce the higher force as it is directly proportional to the surface area. The pumping system pumps the fluid through a one-way valve.
Hydraulic Jack Specifications
It is important to discuss specifications when explaining how a hydraulic jack works. Hydraulic jacks are organised into categories by key specifications. These categories may vary depending on the type of jack and where it was manufactured.
- Capacity – The capacity that a hydraulic jack can lift is measured in pounds or tons.
- Maximum lift height – the distance from the jack’s lift pad when it is fully in use to the ground.
- Travel length – is the distance of movement the lift pad has to make from being unextended to fully extended.
- Working orientation – indicates to position for the jack (vertical or horizontal)
- Handle length – the length of the handle for use.
- Power source – how the jack is operated for example, battery, air or electric.
How to use hydraulic jacks
Hydraulic jacks are used to lift extremely heavy loads. Due to this it is very important to understand how hydraulic jacks work and how to use them correctly. The hydraulic jack needs to be placed on an even surface. Ensure that the jack is stable and that there are no stones, grit or oil that will interfere with its stability.
- The hydraulic jack must be positioned directly beneath the item which needs to be lifted. If it is a car that needs to be lifted make sure to position the jack in line with the cross member
- Once the jack is positioning correctly it can then be set to the correct height.
- Jack stands can then be used to secure the load.
Maintaining Hydraulic Jacks
Maintenance of Hydraulic Jacks is extremely important to ensure that they are functioning properly. It is important to prevent them from collecting dust and debris. In order to protect the Jack, keep it covered when not in use. It is also important to protect it from harsh elements as this could cause early deterioration over time. Hydraulic jacks should be stored with the ram piston retracted. The ram piston retracted will protect it from damage that could cause the jack to perform in an unsafe manner.
To ensure that your jack is kept in good working condition it is recommended you get your jack serviced annually. As part of our service we offer a certification service giving you peace of mind, and documentation that meets maintenance requirements and any ISO auditing requirements you might have. We also offer a repair service in the event of a breakdown.
Hydraulic Jacks brought to you by ATC
Here at ATC we carry a whole range of Hydraulic Jacks including: Multi-Purpose Aluminium Jacks, Plain Piston, Lifting Claw and Locking Rim Jacks, Solid Piston Jacks, Hollow Piston Jacks and Steel Machine Lift Jacks.
JAS Multi-Purpose Aluminium Jacks – The range of hydraulic jacks are used especially for machinery application, maintenance, heavy plant and construction. This type of hydraulic jack is designed using lightweight aluminium alloy and high-quality steel. These high-quality hydraulic jacks are proven industry standard.
JAH Plain Piston, Lifting Claw and Locking Rim – This range of hydraulic jacks offers a large variety of lift height options and capacities. Plain ram lifting jacks are available with or without ‘failsafe’ mechanical lock ring. Optional low height claw lifting design is also available. All of this range is designed using lightweight aluminum alloy with all critical functioning parts manufactured from high quality steel. This range is used in construction, maintenance, machinery applications and heavy plant.
JCS Solid Piston Jacks – This range of hi-force jacks are compact and are mainly used for positioning or lifting in small spaces. They are easy to use and are lightweight. They are designed using high grade steel and aluminium. The pumping mechanism provides maximum versatility in any application and rotates 360 degrees. The handles are removable making this device so compact it will fit in any toolbox.
JCH Hollow Piston Jacks – These hydraulic jacks are compact and are more suitable for where pulling force is required. This device is used for tooling, maintenance and tensioning applications. It is compact, lightweight and easy to operate. Designed using aluminium and features a hollow piston. The pumping system rotates 360 degrees which makes this compatible with any application.
HMJ Steel Machine Lift Jack – This range of hydraulic jacks are designed especially for lifting machinery and heavy equipment. There is also a minimum low height lifting access point available. The low height lighting setting is precision guided. This will reduce friction and prevent the hydraulic cylinder from potential side loading. This range can be set in three different positions. This range is suitable for both manual and powered pumps.
How does a hydraulic jack work? – Final Thoughts
We hope that this article has explained how hydraulic jacks work, what they are used for and how to care for yours properly. If you would like any more information regarding this topic or about our range of hydraulic jacks, do not hesitate to contact our team as we are always happy to help! Our expertise is not linmited to mechanical products, we also have a wide range of components, engineering solutions and lean products to choose from.