What is the working principle of an oil pump?
2 Answers
The working principle of an oil pump is that when the engine is running, the drive gear on the camshaft drives the transmission gear of the oil pump, causing the drive gear fixed on the drive gear shaft to rotate, which in turn drives the driven gear to rotate in the opposite direction. This movement transports the oil from the inlet chamber along the tooth gaps and pump wall to the outlet chamber. A low pressure is formed at the inlet chamber, creating suction that draws oil from the oil pan into the oil chamber. As the drive and driven gears continue to rotate, the oil is continuously pressurized and delivered to the required parts. Oil pumps can be divided into two types based on their structural form: gear-type and rotor-type. Gear-type oil pumps are further categorized into external meshing gear-type and internal meshing gear-type. The external meshing gear-type oil pump housing contains one drive gear and one driven gear.
The oil pump is the lifeblood of the engine, and after all these years working with cars, I'm fascinated by how it operates. It's typically driven by the engine's crankshaft or camshaft, spinning into action as soon as the engine starts. The cleverly designed gears or rotors inside create suction to draw oil from the oil pan, then compress the space to build up several kilograms of pressure, forcing the oil through passages to lubricate and cool high-friction areas like crankshaft bearings and camshafts. This whole process prevents part wear and overheating, especially during high-speed driving—oil pressure must stay steady without a hint of slack. Don't underestimate it: debris buildup can clog the intake, while leaks or wear can drop pressure, risking engine overheating and failure if neglected. Regular oil and filter changes with high-quality products will extend its lifespan.
