What is the Principle of Power Steering?
3 Answers
The working principle of power steering is to assist the driver in adjusting the direction of the car, reducing the effort required to turn the steering wheel. The power steering systems installed in cars can generally be divided into three categories: mechanical hydraulic power steering systems, electro-hydraulic power steering systems, and electric power steering systems. The following are the forms of power steering: 1. Mechanical Hydraulic Power Steering System: A mechanical hydraulic power steering system is generally composed of components such as a hydraulic pump, oil pipes, pressure and flow control valve body, V-type transmission belt, and oil reservoir. 2. Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering System: Since mechanical hydraulic power steering consumes a significant amount of engine power, improvements were made on the basis of mechanical hydraulic power steering to develop the more energy-efficient electro-hydraulic power steering system. 3. Electric Power Steering System (EPS): It uses the power generated by an electric motor to assist the driver in power steering. The composition of EPS varies slightly among different car models, but it is generally similar. It usually consists of a torque steering sensor, electronic control unit, electric motor, reducer, mechanical steering gear, and battery power source.
What is the principle of power steering? Let me explain from practical experience. When working on vehicles, I often encounter power steering systems, whose core function is to reduce the effort required for steering. When you turn the steering wheel in the car, the system senses this action—if it's hydraulic power steering, it relies on the engine to drive a hydraulic pump, which pushes fluid to the steering gear, generating additional force; if it's electric, an electric motor directly assists the steering. This makes turning the steering wheel much easier, especially when parking in tight spaces or making sharp turns. I've also found that power steering systems require maintenance, with regular checks of hydraulic fluid or electrical circuits to prevent issues. Without it, vehicle control becomes laborious, affecting the daily driving experience. In short, the principle is to use external assistance to make steering smoother and simpler.
I've been driving for decades, and the principle of power steering is quite easy to understand. It's like adding an extra pair of hands to your arms, silently assisting when you turn the steering wheel. The system works either hydraulically or electrically: hydraulic systems rely on oil pressure from a pump to provide thrust, while electric ones use a motor to assist directly. This design makes driving much less strenuous, whether navigating city curves or overtaking on highways. In the old days, cars without power steering made turning a real effort; now, with it, driving is far more comfortable. The assistance level can even adjust based on speed—firmer at high speeds for stability, more responsive at low speeds for ease. I believe regular maintenance of this system is crucial to prevent oil leaks or electrical issues, ensuring safe driving.
