What is the working principle of an oil pump?
2 Answers
"The working principle of an oil pump is: The suction and pressurization of oil are accomplished by the reciprocating motion of the plunger within the plunger sleeve. When the plunger is in the lower position, the two oil holes on the plunger sleeve are open, connecting the inner cavity of the plunger sleeve with the oil passage in the pump body, allowing fuel to quickly fill the oil chamber. When the cam pushes against the roller of the roller body, the plunger rises. Due to the movement of the plunger, fuel is squeezed out of the oil chamber and flows into the oil passage. This upward stroke is called the pre-stroke. When the plunger blocks the oil holes, the oil pressurization process begins. As the plunger moves upward, the oil pressure in the chamber rises sharply. When the pressure exceeds the spring force of the outlet valve and the upper oil pressure, the outlet valve is pushed open, and the fuel is forced into the oil pipe and delivered to the injector. Maintenance of the oil pump should pay attention to the following aspects: Water can corrode the oil pump, so substances containing water are prohibited from being vacuumed by the oil pump. For substances containing a large amount of solvent, first remove most of the solvent in an oven before using the oil pump for vacuuming. Use the vacuum pump in the correct sequence to prevent backflow. After using the vacuum oven, be sure to clean it thoroughly, wiping the glass window of the vacuum oven. Wipe off the surface rust-proof oil. Remove the rust-proof oil from the inner cavity of the governor and the fuel injection pump, and add the specified grade of lubricating oil."
Last time my car stalled due to a fuel pump issue, I learned quite a bit. The fuel pump is hidden inside the fuel tank, driven by an electric motor. It has a small rotating rotor that sucks up gasoline, pressurizes it, and sends it through pipes to the engine's intake. If the tank runs empty, the pump will run dry, causing overheating and damage, so I make it a habit to keep the fuel gauge above a quarter tank. During normal operation, the pump maintains steady fuel pressure for the engine. Modern cars with electronic control are more precise, adjusting fuel flow based on throttle input. These pumps typically last around 80,000 kilometers, and regularly changing the fuel filter can help extend their lifespan. If you notice the humming sound getting louder, it's likely a sign the pump is failing and should be checked immediately to avoid being stranded on the road.