Regenerative hydraulic systems

When there is an existing flow to work with but increased cylinder speed is desired, regenerative circuits are a common option.

Operation can be pressure-sensing, meaning that at a certain pressure the regenerative function disengages and the circuit operates as a conventional circuit (see circuit on the right).

It is also possible to have a circuit that is constantly regenerative, for example as shown below with a check valve, a pilot-to-close COFA, and a CXEE check valve.

How regenerative operation works

The principle is that the oil from the rod side of the cylinder is redirected to the piston side. The cylinder will then move faster but with reduced force.

There are applications where switching between regenerative and normal operation is desirable, for example in compactors. When the cylinder is moving in a space without load, the regenerative mode is automatically engaged, and the press head moves quickly. When the press head makes contact with the material to be compacted, the pressure increases and the system shifts to normal operation, allowing full force to be utilized. This is referred to as pressure-sensitive control.

Mounting and material of regenerative system manifolds

They are available both in line-mounted and sandwich-mounted versions. Line-mounted are available in sizes up to SAE 1 ½” flange, and sandwich-mounted up to NG25.

All manifolds are available in aluminum (3000 psi / 210 bar) or steel (5000 psi / 350 bar) and can be supplied with surface treatment.

Systems in constant regenerative mode

If an automatic system is not desired, there are also full-time systems that remain in regenerative mode at all times.

See below for a full-time regenerative circuit.