Hydraulic and electrical motors are both used to drive equipment, machinery, and applications. The decision between using one or the other should be based on the application and environment. Hydraulic motors are often more efficient than electric motors under certain conditions and work well in rugged environments.
Power
Hydraulic motors have the ability to generate tremendous torque, yet they are often a fraction of the size of electric motors. They also tend to be much less noisy and consume significantly less power. In addition, hydraulic systems are incredibly durable and are resistant to salt spray and other environmental hazards that can degrade electrical motors. These traits make them the best choice for machines that will be exposed to harsh conditions. For example, hydraulic systems are used in slurry pumping to move a high-torque stream of material, such as sludge or solid waste, from a source to a processing plant. They can also handle a variety of other demanding jobs that electric motors simply cannot.
Efficiency
Hydraulic motors are often a more popular choice for heavy construction equipment because they generate their power more efficiently than electrical motors. Electric motors are sensitive to their environments and can be damaged when covered in dust, moisture, or saltwater spray. Hydraulic systems can be enhanced to increase their efficiency. One method is to install variable-speed hydraulic pump controls that run the pump only when needed, eliminating energy wasted by idling. Energy-saving measures help ensure that industrial hydraulic machines are as efficient as possible. Studies estimate that if industrial hydraulic systems were 5% more efficient, they would save $24.3 billion in energy annually.
Durability
In general, hydraulic motors are more durable than electric motors. The main reason for this is that hydraulic motors are made of liquid rather than metal, which means that they are less likely to rust or break when exposed to harsh environments. Hydraulic motors can also withstand the rigors of high-heat environments and a variety of operating conditions that electric motors cannot. This is important because it can ensure that machines will work safely and efficiently.
Cost
Hydraulic motors have lower upfront costs than electric motors, although they require maintenance. This can include routine cleaning, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid changes. The cost of a hydraulic motor may be higher when it’s used in heavy machinery applications, such as excavators and dredges, but its durability can save it from replacement in the long run. For example, the power requirements of a slurry pumping system might require a large electrical motor to produce high levels of torque. However, a hydraulic pump can be designed to produce this same amount of force in a much smaller package. This is especially helpful when space constraints make it impossible to fit a massive motor into the machine.