Hydraulic Force: Input & Output of Multiple Pistons

In summary, the conversation discusses examples of hydraulic mechanical advantage and how a small force on a small piston can be used to move a bigger piston with a lot of force. The conversation also explores how this principle applies to multiple output pistons and whether the input force and travel would need to change in order to maintain the same output force and travel. It is noted that the area of the pistons must also be taken into account when calculating the mechanical advantage.
  • #1
wolfy3
2
0
Most examples of hydraulic mechanical advantage display a little force on a small piston traveling a long distance to move a bigger piston a short distance with a lot of force.

With the inverse, if we have an input of:
100 lbs of force on a 3" diameter piston traveling 1"
the output would be
33 lbs of force on a 1" diameter piston traveling 3"
and this is true for single pistons.

What happens if the output is forked into 2 or more pistons as my illustration shows?
To have the same travel & force on the small diameter output pistons, would the travel & force on the input piston need to change at all? Or will it stay the same (as with a single output cylinder)?
Thanks in advance.
 

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  • #2
wolfy3 said:
With the inverse, if we have an input of:
100 lbs of force on a 3" diameter piston traveling 1"
the output would be
33 lbs of force on a 1" diameter piston traveling 3"

I might be a bit rusty but are you sure about this example?

100lbs on a 3" diameter piston is 14psi
33lbs on a 1" diameter piston is 38psi
 
  • #3
You can't use just the diameter of the pistons. You have to calculate the area of each piston.

Piston A = 3 square inches
Piston B = 1 square inch

Applying force to Piston A to move it 1 inch will move Piston B 3 inches, with 1/3rd the output force.
Applying force to Piston B to move it 3 inches will move Piston A 1 inch, with 3 times the output force.
 

Related to Hydraulic Force: Input & Output of Multiple Pistons

1. What is hydraulic force?

Hydraulic force is the force that is exerted by a liquid, typically oil or water, when it is under pressure. This force is used to generate movement and power in various hydraulic systems.

2. How does hydraulic force work?

Hydraulic force works on the principle of Pascal's law, which states that pressure applied to a fluid in a closed system will be transmitted equally to all areas of the system. This allows for the force to be multiplied and used to move larger objects or generate greater power.

3. What is the input and output of multiple pistons in a hydraulic system?

The input of multiple pistons in a hydraulic system is the force applied to the pistons, usually through a pump or other mechanical means. The output is the resulting force and movement generated by the pistons, which can be used to lift, push, or move objects.

4. Why are multiple pistons used in hydraulic systems?

Multiple pistons are used in hydraulic systems to increase the force and power output of the system. By connecting multiple pistons in a series, the force can be multiplied and used to move larger and heavier objects.

5. What are some common applications of hydraulic force with multiple pistons?

Hydraulic force with multiple pistons is commonly used in heavy machinery, such as cranes and excavators, to lift and move heavy loads. It is also used in hydraulic presses, car brakes, and other industrial and mechanical systems that require high force and precision movements.

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