What is the working principle of a hydraulic power steering gear?
2 Answers
The working principle of a hydraulic power steering gear is: 1. In the neutral position, the oil from the pump returns to the oil tank through the internal components of the steering gear; 2. During power steering, the oil from the pump enters the cycloidal gear pair through the follow-up valve, driving the rotor to follow the rotation of the steering wheel. Depending on the angle and direction of the steering wheel's rotation, a specific amount of hydraulic oil is directed into the left or right chamber of the oil cylinder, pushing the guide wheel to achieve power steering. The function of the hydraulic power steering gear is to amplify the force transmitted from the steering wheel to the steering linkage and to change the direction of force transmission. The steering gear, also known as the steering box, is a set of gear mechanisms that convert rotational motion into linear motion and also serves as a reduction transmission device in the steering system.
With decades of experience in auto repair, I can say hydraulic power steering systems are actually quite simple yet ingenious. When you turn the steering wheel, it connects to a control valve. This valve detects steering force and opens a passage, allowing hydraulic fluid from the power steering pump to flow into the hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder's piston is pushed by high-pressure oil, assisting wheel rotation and saving you considerable effort. Key components include: the power steering pump (driven by the engine belt, pumping fluid like a heart), the fluid reservoir storing hydraulic oil, and the piping system for fluid delivery. Common issues include low fluid levels or leaks causing heavier steering, and a failing pump may produce whining noises. Important reminder: old fluid should be replaced periodically to prevent contamination and system clogging. This design proves highly reliable in older vehicles, though slightly more fuel-consuming. Maintenance is straightforward—just manually check fluid levels and seals regularly.
