The basic principle.
A hydraulic lift uses pressurised fluid acting on an actuator to produce lifting force. A motor-driven pump supplies fluid, while the valve arrangement controls movement and load holding.
In a conventional single-acting arrangement, the pump supplies upward travel and gravity provides downward motion as fluid returns through a controlled path. Other hydraulic designs can manage energy differently.
From power unit to car.
Electrical energy turns the pump. Fluid flow extends the actuator. The actuator lifts the car directly or through a roped arrangement.
Follow the relationship.
- Power unitProvides controlled fluid supply.
- ActuatorConverts pressure and flow to force and movement.
- Return pathControls descent and returns fluid to the reservoir.
Connect it to the lift.
The controller, doors and position information coordinate the journey in addition to the hydraulics. The ram, pipework, valves and protective devices form a designed system; a pump running is not sufficient evidence of correct movement.
A closer look
Fluid temperature, leakage and load influence performance. The component lessons explain these relationships without prescribing adjustments for an installed valve block.
Check your understanding
Must the pump always run to make a conventional hydraulic lift descend?
Reveal the explanation
No. In a conventional gravity-lowering arrangement, descent is controlled by returning fluid under the load.