Jim Hennen, Sr. Product Development Manager, discusses DDP technology and the energy savings advantages of incorporating it into a hydraulic power system.
Q: What is DDP in hydraulic power generation?
A: In a Digital Displacement Pump (DDP) module, an electronic controller activates the cylinders individually, varying the pump displacement volume by on/off control rather than by reducing the piston stroke. This method of hydraulic power generation enables high energy efficiency and fast, precise flow control.
Q: What are the advantages of DDP technology?
A: In addition to the gains in energy efficiency, several immediate benefits are clear with DDP. First, unlike a conventional swash plate pump module, a DDP module can deliver maximum flow at the target pressure. Second, the DDP can idle in high pressure with very little energy penalty, and finally, the DDP can respond faster to step changes in flow demand.
Q: What is Corner Power and why is it important?
A: Corner power is the maximum flow rate and pressure of the pump module. Swash plate technology requires a reduction from the target pressure to drive the swash plate to its maximum angle stop. Thus, you cannot have full pressure at maximum flow. The maximum flow is also limited by the AC motor horsepower. Too much flow can overload the motor. In contrast, a DDP module doesn’t require differential target pressure to create flow, it simply delivers flow to maintain the digitally commanded target pressure.
Q: Why has MTS engineered a new, hybrid approach to hydraulic power generation?
A: MTS has found a way to combine two different pump technologies to amplify the benefits of both. With patented hybrid technology, the MTS SilentFlo™ 525 HPU reduces energy use by 35% or more compared to older HPUs. This substantial savings lowers energy costs, helps labs meet decarbonization goals, and provides a pathway for either lifecycle extension or seamless replacement of legacy HPUs.
Q: How does MTS integrate hybrid HPU technology with existing infrastructure?
A: We design our next-generation HPU technologies to be compatible with previous generations. In addition, we ensure all SilentFlo generations are compatible with the MTS Multi-Pump-Control Manager (MPCM) so they may be paired together and operated as a single system if desired. The 525 Series is a major leap in efficiency using less facility services than all prior generations while fitting into the same footprint.
