AKG Case Drain Cooling

AKG Cool-Line Case Drain Coolers

It's worth noting that most seal compounds and oil succumb to degradation when exposed to temperatures above 180°F (82°C). In fact, every rise in temperature by 18 degrees beyond 140 translates to halving the lifespan of the oil. High-temperature systems tend to generate sludge and varnish, consequently affecting the hydraulic system and impeding the efficiency of application.

In industrial hydraulic systems, pressure-compensating piston pumps are widely used. They possess tolerances that allow a minor quantity of oil to slip through, flow into the pump case, then ported back to the reservoir through the case-drain line. However, the case-drain flow turns into heat without performing any beneficial work.

Hydraulic systems typically feature hydraulic motors and pumps operating with case drain hoses to eliminate surplus internal oil leakage from the motor. Lack of a case drain line results in a ruptured shaft seal or housing damage. Employing a case drain can help with cooling and on occasion, lubricating motors. Always refer to the manufacturer's specification on maximum outlet and case pressures for appropriate installation.

Case-drain line's usual throughput is 1% to 3% of the maximum pump volume. Case drain coolers are fitting for applications that require minimum cooling such as on a Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)'s case drain line. These coolers are designed for minimal mounting to shorten installation time. They are meant to be appended behind an existing TEFC motor, leveraging the electric motor fan's airflow. This cooling configuration is compact, economical, low-flow and offers limited heat expulsion.