Hydraulic winch: description and characteristics

Traction equipment of the car usually represents 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, reluctantly leaves its market position.

Features of hydraulic models

Like all hydraulic mechanisms, this type of winches operates on the principle of liquid pressure, which provides sufficient force. Accordingly, the main drawback of such devices for the car is a troublesome installation process. This, by the way, explains the low popularity of hydraulics in the Russian market. But, again, it does not stop connoisseurs of effective and truly high-quality solutions. In practice, they benefit from such advantages as low tension noise, the possibility of using under water, reliability and reliability, as well as good power performance. That's why the winch is a hydraulic automotive winch, which combines both the productivity and the rational use of the power potential.

Main characteristics

The main working indicator of all winches without exception is the potential of the load to be withheld. In the case of hydraulics, it varies from 2 to 13 tons. At that, the working pressure is basically 150 bar - this is already a specific parameter of the hydraulics. Also, this type of model is characterized by oil permeability. This parameter, in fact, determines the pulling force of a particular unit. On average, the throughput is 60 L / min.

To the hydraulic winch organically worked with the proposed loads, it is important to calculate and the volume of the engine. The fact that the winch mechanisms are not calculated specifically for a particular level of cargo - their motorist can use them in wide ranges of mass that are within the maximum permissible limit. But if you plan to choose a model that will be used in a certain narrow corridor of loads, it is better to initially select the optimal engine for the given conditions. So, if the emphasis is placed on lightweight vehicles, then give preference to engines with a volume of up to 120 cm ³ / rev. If the possibility of frequent use of the winch for small trucks is also permitted, it is better to refer to devices with engines of the order of 160 cm ² / rev.

Types of ropes

Usually two types of cables are used: metal and synthetic. The variant in the form of twisting of steel filaments may seem preferable, but, strangely enough, it has significant drawbacks. First, do not put on the metal special hopes in terms of strength. Over time, its individual threads are torn, and at a certain point it is necessary to replace it. Secondly, a hydraulic winch with a metal cable is unsafe. Those very broken threads can injure the skin of the hands and damage the clothes, and if you miss the moment of critical wear, then a complete rupture of the cable in the process of pulling can lead to tragic consequences. Synthetics is also not ideal, but it is less dangerous, non-dynamic and lasts longer with proper care. It is necessary to protect such a cable from the sun's rays, and after use in conditions of contact with sand, it is necessary to thoroughly wash the fibers.

Manufacturers

The Russian car market mainly offers models of American-made winches, most of which are oriented to equipping off-road vehicles. Such companies as RAMSEY, Warn, Come UP, etc. are trusted by experienced motorists. The Warn brand is famous for its extensive coverage of motor vehicles, supplying winch mechanisms not only for SUVs, but also for special vehicles, sports cars, tow trucks, etc. This product is distinguished Not only high reliability, but also structural versatility, which simplifies the installation of even demanding installation of hydraulic devices. Under the brand name RAMSEY, also worthy of attention are hydraulic traction winches, the reviews are underlined by the high service life and maintainability. If it is not a matter of choosing a backup mechanism "just in case", but of a permanent assistant in harsh conditions, then it is quite possible to target the hardy assemblies of this manufacturer.

How to choose a model for specific needs?

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

Price issue

Hydraulic models are the most expensive, so count on the savings with this choice is not worth it. Only in some families can the similarity of prices with the segment of electrical analogues be traced. So, a hydraulic winch with traction capabilities of the order of 2-5 tons can cost 120-140 thousand rubles. Models whose potential exceeds 10 tons are on average available for 150-180 thousand rubles. Of course, this applies to aggregates produced by large manufacturers of the Warn level. You can also find winches, the cost of which will be below 100 thousand rubles. But we must understand that the quality will be appropriate. 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 Capabilities

Those who gave preference to a quality hydraulic winch and correctly performed the installation, you can rely on a very rich functionality. Directly the mechanism is controlled through levers - as a rule, there are two. The main advantage of branded models is the support of several traction regimes. For example, in basic order the unit performs free unwinding and blocking, and the remaining several modes differ in different tension transmissions. The modern winch hydraulic traction supports several speeds, the control of which can also be realized via the remote control.

Conclusion

The car option and accessories today are produced in such volume and variety that a fully equipped machine can cost twice as much as in the original condition. Obviously, most of the devices, devices and mechanisms of the ordinary car enthusiast are simply not needed. Not every driver needs a hydraulic winch, but if there is even the slightest risk of being in a blind situation, then you can not refuse this helper. Another thing is how appropriate it is to buy models with hydraulics. On the one hand, the operational capabilities make this option attractive for professionals. On the other - some ergonomic advantages, noiselessness and reliability are suitable for amateurs. Therefore, if financial opportunities permit, then we can safely make a choice in favor of a winch with a hydraulic booster.