Power Supplies Frequently Asked Questions
I have a pump on my machine. Can I use it to drive my clamps too?
Yes, you may use a machine pump to drive your clamping system if it has the following characteristics:
1) It operates in an appropriate pressure range. 2) It has an appropriate flow rate or it is restricted to an acceptable flow. 3) It uses acceptable hydraulic oil. 4) It has adequate capacity to handle both tasks.
What size pump do I need to drive my system?
It depends. First, add up the total oil capacity of all of your system devices. To this, add the estimated volume of the plumbing (especially hoses, which expand under pressure) included in your system. This total should not exceed 75% of the capacity of your power supply (if it does you may encounter problems bleeding the system). If your system is only work supports, you may be able to get by with just a screw pump. If it is simple, you may be able to use an air/hydraulic booster. If it is a complex system or palletized fixture, you will need a more conventional power supply, a large pump may be required. Please feel free to call if we can help estimate pump size or clamp times.
How do I adjust the pressure to my system?
Vektek air/hydraulic power supplies are adjusted by changing the inlet air pressure (unless Non-Adjustable is noted on the drawing). Electric pump pressures are adjusted by changing the pressure switch setting. ALL Vektek pumps run on demand and should not be made to continuously pump. If your pump cycles more than once every 30 seconds, con tact the factory immediately for assistance.
My pump kicks on and off frequently (every 3-5 seconds), what should I do?
You have a leak. It may be internal to a clamp, valve or an industrial cylinder. It is important to determine the source of the leak and eliminate it. This may involve replacing components and extensive troubleshooting. We will try to help. Please gather information for us before you call. You should fill out the Fixture Documentation Sheet and have a schematic and bill of materials ready when you call us. We want to help, but need adequate information about your system to diagnose the problem.
VektorFlo® hydraulic oil is a premium grade petroleum base fluid with detergent and anti-wear additives. It also includes additives to inhibit corrosion, rust, oxidation and foaming. VektorFlo® hydraulic oil has the following additional chatacteristics:
If you are presently using one of the following products, or an equivalent, it may be substituted for our oil, although we recommend completely draining existing oil before refilling the reservoir:
Use of hydraulic oil with a viscosity grade higher than ISO 32 may cause sluggish return action of single acting devices and should therefore, only be used on double acting systems. ISO grade 46 is compatible with Vektek pumps and may be used if deemed necessary.
VektorFlo® ISO Grade 46 hydraulic oil is compatible with Vektek pumps and is less flammable making it ideal for use in welding applications. It has been fully tested by Vektek Engineering for function and seal compatibility. VektorFlo® ISO 46 hydraulic oil has the following additional characteristics:
Pour Point: -60°F (-51°C) Flash Point: 579°F (304°C) (COC) Kinematic Viscosity Typical 46 mm/s at 104°F/40°C