// Catalogue

Pressure Compensated Pumps: Variable Pumps That Save Energy

Pressure compensated pumps are variable displacement hydraulic pumps that cut their own flow once the system reaches a set pressure, delivering only the oil the machine needs. TSA Hydraulics Engineering gathers them in our Vacuum & Specialty range, part of the wider Pumps collection.

The compensator setting is the number that matters most, and it is often the one nobody wrote down. It gets lost when pumps are swapped in a hurry. Read it from the old pump's tag or a gauge and add the full model code. We will match a factory original, or an equivalent with the same control, pre-set.

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// Buying guide

How Pressure Compensation Works

A small spool valve on the pump senses outlet pressure against an adjustable spring.

Below the set pressure, the pump runs at full flow.
As pressure reaches the setting, the spool moves and shifts the pump's displacement control.
The pump reduces its flow to match what the circuit is using.
When the circuit is holding still, the pump makes just enough flow to cover leakage, at full pressure.

The result is full pressure on demand, without pumping unused oil over a relief valve.

Which Pumps Offer It

Variable displacement axial piston pumps: the most common type, which change flow by tilting the swash plate.
Variable displacement vane pumps: these change flow by shifting the cam ring, and are popular on machine tools.
Some radial piston pumps: compact and stiff, and often used for holding and clamping.

This range groups these pumps by control type. To see how each design works, visit its own pump type page.

Compensator or Relief Valve?

A relief valve dumps unused oil back to tank, turning wasted power into heat.
A compensator stops the pump making unused oil in the first place.

You still need a relief valve as a safety backup. Set it a little above the compensator, often about 10 to 20 bar higher, so it only opens if the compensator fails.

Signs Your Compensator Needs Attention

Pressure creeps above the setting, or will not reach it.
The pump runs hot when the machine is idle.
Pressure hunts or surges up and down.
The relief valve opens often during normal running.

A worn or sticking compensator spool is a common cause, and it can often be replaced without changing the whole pump.

Setting the Compensator

Fit an accurate gauge at the pump outlet.
Start the pump and bring the circuit to a safe holding condition, such as a cylinder at the end of its stroke.
Loosen the lock nut and turn the adjuster slowly until the gauge shows your setting.
Lock the adjuster and record the value on the pump tag.

Always follow the maker's manual, and make sure the relief valve is set higher than the compensator before you start.

Pressure Compensated Pumps Specifications to Check

Maximum displacement and pressure rating
Compensator range and current setting
Pump type: axial piston, vane or radial piston
Any extra controls, such as remote pressure or power limiting
Shaft, flange, ports and rotation for replacements

Where They Work

Presses, machine tools, clamping and holding circuits, injection moulding machines and test rigs all benefit, because they spend long periods holding pressure with little flow. Cross reference families such as the Danfoss Series 45 are a common starting point. Our energy efficiency and servo retrofits team can measure how much you would save by switching from fixed to compensated pumps.

Why Buy From TSA Hydraulics Engineering

As a pressure compensated pumps supplier, we match the control as well as the pump, so the replacement behaves the same from day one. You get OEM or equivalent options, and help sourcing pressure compensated pumps replacement parts such as compensator valves, seal kits and rotating groups. We tell you upfront whether a pump is genuine or an equivalent.

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