EIMA 2024

Hydraulic systems have evolved to maximize the predictability of actuation speed. Flow compensation is a well-known technology that mechanically corrects the actuator's speed if it exceeds the operator's demand due to inertial load. This is achieved through a mechanical device introducing a pressure drop to limit the flow when necessary.

EPX concept, part of Walvoil's Hydraulic Digital Solutions, innovates beyond the industry standard with a three-way compensation device that not only limits actuation speed but can also recover stored gravitational and kinetic energy of the system.

EPX's approach combines two key innovations.

Meter-Out compensation
This design improves the control of unbalanced loads, proving compensation to the return flow. This innovation also simplifies the load control valves: in a meter-out system the compensator protects against load speed drifting. The secondary valves are in this case used only as safety equipment. These safety valves, typically flanged on the cylinder, are designed to have minimal pressure drop and minimal impact on main valve operation.

Three-way compensation
This patented design introduces an extra flow path to the meter-out compensator. During operation, the compensator measures the fluid pressure: if the pressure exceeds a determined threshold, an extra path is opened, pressurizing the recovery line with the stored energy in the actuator.

The combination of these two innovations provides an integrated solution with flow-sharing capability, meaning constant repartition between delivered flow rates in case of saturation, and able to recover stored energy in the machine.

EPX technologies are evolving to minimize the environmental impact and stabilize the power consumption of the next generation of hydraulic systems. Testing activities on wheel loaders have demonstrated a 20% of energy saving combining recoverable energy and reduction of compensation losses.

What are the advantages of the system?

• Flow Sharing repartition
• Energy recovery line
• Compensation of the unbalanced loads (drift protection)

The new Innovation Center located in the expanded area of the Corte Tegge plant in Cavriago, Reggio Emilia - Italy, is operational. The Corte Tegge site has now become the headquarters of Walvoil's R&D, Technical Offices and Electronics Design teams, and one of Walvoil's largest production and logistic hubs in Italy.

With its 3100 sq. m. of covered area, 2500 sq. m. of outdoor area dedicated to vehicles, 122 different devices dedicated to testing, and 26 specialized employees, the Innovation Center is more than before the operational heart of all Walvoil research activities. Some of the specific areas are: technological materials laboratory, vehicle performance zone, endurance laboratories, dedicated rooms (environmental, vibration, acoustic, mechatronic) and others.

These laboratories serve Walvoil Spa and its foreign subsidiaries in Australasia, Brazil, Canada, China, Korea, France, India, the United States, and Mexico, as well as all Walvoil customers.