Hydraulic winch: description and specifications

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

The traction equipment of a car is usually the basis of the power plant. But if we talk about additional technical equipment, then perhaps the most common mechanism with physical effort will be a winch. And recently, the equipment in the form of electric models is no longer surprising. Such units are much more convenient to operate, but the hydraulic winch, due to its advantages, is reluctant to leave its position on the market.

Features of hydraulic models

Like all hydraulic mechanisms, this type of winch works on the principle of liquid pressure, which provides sufficient force. Accordingly, the main disadvantage of such devices for the car is the troublesome installation process. This, by the way, explains the low popularity of hydraulics in the Russian market. But, again, this does not stop connoisseurs of effective and truly high-quality solutions. In practice, they receive such advantages as low tension noise, the ability to use under water, reliability and reliability, as well as good power performance. That is why a hydraulic automobile winch is good, which combines both performance and rationaluse of power potential.

Key Features

The main performance indicator of all winches without exception is the load-bearing potential. In the case of hydraulics, it varies from 2 to 13 tons. At the same time, the working pressure is mainly 150 bar - this is already a specific parameter of hydraulics. Also, models of this type are characterized by oil patency. This parameter, in fact, determines the traction force of a particular unit. The average flow rate is 60 l/min.

In order for the hydraulic winch to work organically with the proposed loads, it is important to calculate the engine size. The fact is that winch mechanisms are not specifically designed for a particular level of cargo - a motorist can use them in wide ranges of mass that are within the maximum allowable limit. But if you plan to choose a model that will be used in a certain narrow load corridor, then it is better to initially select the optimal engine for the given conditions. So, if the emphasis is on passenger vehicles, then it is worth giving preference to engines with a volume of up to 120 cm³/rev. If the possibility of frequent use of a winch for small trucks is also allowed, then it is better to turn to devices with engines of the order of 160 cm^2/rev.

Varieties of ropes

There are mainly two types of cables - metal and synthetic. Variant in the formstrands of steel threads may seem preferable, but, oddly enough, it has significant drawbacks. Firstly, you should not place special hopes on the metal in terms of strength. Over time, some of its threads are torn, and at some point it is necessary to replace it. Secondly, a hydraulic winch with a metal cable is not safe. Those same broken threads can injure the skin of the hands and damage clothing, and if you miss the moment of critical wear, then a complete rupture of the cable during traction can lead to tragic consequences. Synthetics aren't perfect either, but they're less dangerous, less dynamic, and last longer with proper care. Such a cable should be protected from sunlight, and the fibers should be thoroughly washed after use in contact with sand.

Producers

The Russian car market mainly offers models of American-made winches, most of which are focused on equipping off-road equipment. Companies such as RAMSEY, Warn, Come UP, etc. are trusted by experienced motorists. The Warn brand is famous for its extensive coverage of vehicles, supplying winch mechanisms not only for SUVs, but also for special equipment, sports cars, tow trucks, etc. This product is distinguished not only high reliability, but also structural versatility, which simplifies the installation of even demanding hydraulic devices. Noteworthy hydraulic traction winches also come out under the RAMSEY brand, reviews of which emphasize a high operational resource.and maintainability. If we are not talking about choosing a safety mechanism “just in case”, but about a permanent assistant in difficult conditions, then it is quite possible to focus on the hardy units of this manufacturer.

How to choose a model for specific needs?

Of course, one should start from the possibilities of working with the mass corresponding to the target object. Next, the design parameters are determined. In equipping any car, it is important to be guided by the principle of using the minimum number of auxiliary coupling devices and adapters, so you should initially evaluate the possibility of an organic and as simple as possible introduction of the device into the skeleton of the car. But if, for example, a hydraulic winch is selected for a tow truck, then it will not be superfluous to provide for additional clamps. This is the case when overloading with an external mechanical option pays off.

Question of price

Hydraulic models are the most expensive, so you should not count on savings with this choice. Only in some families there is a similarity in prices with the segment of electrical analogues. So, a hydraulic winch with traction capabilities of about 2-5 tons can cost 120-140 thousand rubles. Models whose potential exceeds 10 tons are available on average for 150-180 thousand rubles. Of course, this applies to units produced by major manufacturers of the Warn level. You can also find winches, the cost of which will be below 100 thousand rubles, but you need to understand that the quality will beappropriate. And in this case, quality indicators are directly related to the safety of operation of the mechanism, not to mention the effectiveness of its main function.

Operational capability

Those who opted for a quality hydraulic winch and did the installation correctly can count on a very rich functionality. The mechanism is directly controlled through levers - as a rule, there are two of them. The main advantage of branded models is the support for several traction modes. For example, in the basic order, the unit performs free unwinding and blocking, and the remaining several modes differ in different tension transfers. The modern hydraulic traction winch supports several speeds, which can also be controlled via the remote control.

Conclusion

Automotive options and accessories are now available in such volume and variety that a fully equipped car can cost twice as much as in its original condition. It is obvious that most of the devices, devices and mechanisms are simply not needed by an ordinary motorist. Not every driver also needs a hydraulic winch, but if there is even the slightest risk of being in an impossible situation, then this assistant cannot be abandoned. Another thing is how appropriate it is to buy models with hydraulics. On the one hand, operational capabilities make this option attractive to professionals. On the other hand, some ergonomicadvantages, noiselessness and reliability are also suitable for amateurs. Therefore, if financial possibilities allow, then you can safely make a choice in favor of a winch with hydraulic booster.