Pumps: Flow and Pressure

How do you determine what size hydraulic pump is need for your specific application?

First determine with the body manufacturer, what flow (GPM) is necessary for operation, and what the system’s max operating pressure (PSI) needs to be.

Sizing your Pump

Muncie Power Products uses pumps that are generally rated at 1000 pump shaft RPM.

To determine what your pump shaft RPM will be, multiply your engine RPM by your PTO speed percentage. For example: a truck running the engine at 1200RPM with a PTO speed percentage of 112% will have a pump shaft RPM of 1344RPM. Using this example with a Muncie pump rated for 15GPM, you would see approximately 20GPM.

Always be sure to have the correct size hoses on your pump, and never bush down of constrict the flow on the suction/inlet side. Doing so will potentially starve the pump for oil and cause it to burn up.

Understanding Pressure Limitations

The pump itself does not generate pressure. The pump is rated to withstand a specific pressure, generated by the system itself. Over pressurization of the pump/system can cause cavitation in the pump and cause failure. A pressure relief valve is a valuable tool in preventing this occurrence.

Note: It is important t avoid using Teflon tape on Muncie Power Products pumps, or any other brand. The use of Teflon tape will void any warranty considerations.

You can find more information on Muncie pumps on Muncie’s website, or by calling R&M Equipment Company at 610-495-9706.