Axial piston pumps

An axial piston pump is a type of hydraulic pump used to generate pressurized oil flow in hydraulic systems. It is particularly common in applications requiring high pressure, compact design, and high efficiency – such as in mobile hydraulics, industrial machinery, and construction equipment.

How an axial piston pump works

In an axial piston pump, multiple pistons are mounted parallel to the drive shaft (axially) inside a rotating cylinder block. The movement of the pistons is controlled by an angled plate, often referred to as a swashplate or cam plate, which causes the pistons to reciprocate as the cylinder block rotates. This reciprocating motion draws hydraulic fluid in from the low-pressure side and then forces it out through the high-pressure side, allowing the pump to deliver consistent, high-pressure flow with excellent efficiency.

High pressure capability and compact

Axial piston pumps combine high pressure capability with a compact design, making them ideal for both stationary and mobile applications. Their construction offers high volumetric efficiency, long service life, and precise controllability. In variable displacement versions, they also enable significant energy savings by adjusting the flow to match system demand, which reduces heat generation and increases overall system efficiency.

Fixed or variable displacement

Axial piston pumps are available in two main versions – fixed and variable displacement. A fixed displacement pump delivers a constant flow rate at a given speed and is used in applications where the flow requirement is steady. A variable displacement pump features an adjustable swashplate that alters the stroke length of the pistons, allowing the flow rate to be dynamically controlled according to the current system demand. This provides high flexibility and energy efficiency in systems with fluctuating flow requirements.

Common applications

Thanks to their durability and performance, axial piston pumps are widely used across various hydraulic systems. They are commonly found in mobile machinery such as excavators, wheel loaders, and tractors, where space is limited and pressure demands are high. In industrial settings – including presses, injection molding machines, and marine hydraulic systems – axial piston pumps are relied upon for delivering consistent flow and pressure under demanding conditions.