Hydraulic steering is one of the most significant recent advances in the industry of automotive components. This system has transformed the driving experience by easing steering wheel turn, reducing greatly the driver’s physical effort. But what does a steering hydraulic exactly do? and how does it work?
The hydraulic steering is an assisted system using hydraulic fluid pressure to help the driver turn the vehicle wheels. Opposite to traditional manual steering -where all effort lies directly on the driver- hydraulic steering provides an additional assistance which results in a softer and more precise control. This system has been widely adopted in a variety of vehicles from compact cars to heavy commercial vehicles due to its capacity to improve significantly the driving ease and maneuvering precision.
The hydraulic steering system is formed by several essential components which work together to provide assistance to the driver. The main elements of the system are as follows:
The power steering pump is the core of the hydraulic system. Generally, this pump is activated by a connected belt to the vehicle’s motor. Its main function is generating the required hydraulic pressure to move the fluid through the system. The pump turns the motor’s mechanical energy into hydraulic energy then allowing the assistance in the wheel turns.
Hydraulic fluid is an especially formulated liquid which transmits the pressure generated by the pump and lubricates the internal components of the system. This liquid plays a crucial role in the efficient functioning of the steering system, since it is the way through which the required force is transmitted to assist the wheel turning.
The Control valve regulates the hydraulic fluid flow as a response to steering wheel movements. When the driver turns the wheel, the valve detects such movement, and takes the liquid to the steering cylinder towards the corresponding direction. This regulation assures that the provided assistance is proportional to the effort performed by the driver.
Power rack and pinion are responsible of transmitting steering wheel movements to the vehicle wheels. When the hydraulic fluid is directed towards the steering cylinder, it pushes the pinion which also moves the rack. This movement eases wheel turning greatly reducing the driver’s required effort.
The fluid reservoir contains the hydraulic liquid and allows its continuous circulation within the system. It also acts as a reserve for the fluid when it is not in use, making sure that there’s always enough fluid available to keep the system working efficiently.
The hydraulic steering functioning is based on simple hydraulic principles and can be broken down in the following steps:
When the driver turns the wheel, this movement is transmitted through the steering column until the pinion. The pinion, connected to the rack, turns the steering wheel’s circular movement into a linear movement which turns the vehicle wheels.
The vehicle turns activate the control valve which detects movement and takes the pressurized hydraulic fluid to the corresponding steering cylinder. The assisted steering works in both directions, providing assistance both turning to the left and to the right.
The pressurized fluid pushes the piston inside the steering cylinder, which helps to move the steering rack. This hydraulic assistance reduces meaningfully the driver’s effort when turning the wheels making a smoother driving with less fatigue.
Once the turn is done, the hydraulic fluid is back to the deposit ready to be released in the next steering wheel movement. This continuous cycle ensures that the system of hydraulic steering works efficiently at all times.
Adopting hydraulic steering in modern vehicles, offers multiple benefits, both for safety and driver’s comfort. Among the main advantages are:
Hydraulic steering facilitates significantly the control of the wheel, especially in low-speed maneuvering or while parking. This reduces driver’s fatigue and improves the driving experience.
That hydraulic system provides a softer and more precise answer to steering wheel turning, allowing the driver to perform more exact maneuvers. This is especially beneficial in emergency situations when you require a speedy reaction.
By reducing the physical effort required to control the vehicle, hydraulic steering contributes to a more relaxed driving experience with less stress. Especially in long trips or in dense traffic conditions.
A more precise and easy-to-maneuver steering increases safety, since It allows the driver to react quicker and effectively before situations of emergency or rough changes on the road.
Well-maintained hydraulic systems, have a long lifespan and require less repair, compared to traditional manual steering systems, which is translated in long-term minor maintenance costs.
The Industry is in constant evolution and hydraulic steering systems are not an exception. Recent innovations are focused on improving efficiency, sustainability and integration with other advanced automotive technologies.
The use of more resistant and lighter materials in hydraulic steering components has improved significantly the system’s durability and performance. These materials also contribute to the overall weight of the vehicle improving like this its energy efficiency.
Integrating sensors and driver assistance technology to the hydraulic steering systems allows a higher precision and adaptability regarding driving conditions. This includes automatic adjustment in the steering assistance according to the vehicle speed and road conditions.
Innovations in hydraulic steering are also focused on sustainability with the development of systems which use eco-friendly hydraulic fluids and manufacturing practices which minimize environmental impact.
Lizarte, a company belonging to our initiative Autoparts From Spain is a manufacturing leader of hydraulic steering systems and automotive components. Since its foundation in 1973, Lizarte has developed high-quality solutions for the aftermarket, offering a wide catalog, including power steering, power steering pumps, air-conditioning compressors, hydropneumatics suspension spheres, diesel injection systems, EGR valves and ignition coils.
Specialist in the remanufacturing process, Lizarte assures that every piece meets with the highest quality standards, backed up by certifications such as ISO 9001:2018 and TS 16949. Its commitment with excellence and innovation has positioned Lizarte as a trusted brand in the spare-parts market, offering lasting and efficient solutions for the maintenance and improvement of vehicles.
With a purpose to offering a complete line of products, Lizarte designs and produces windshield wiping systems, windshield wiping equipment, automotive deposits, plastic components, DC motors and electric windows. This capacity of customization allows every product to get perfectly adapted to our clients’ specific needs. Providing integral solutions which reinforce the position of Autoparts From Spain as a leader in the automotive components market.
Furthermore, Lizarte’s dedication to talent and circular economy is reflected in its sustainability practices and its focus on technological innovation. By choosing Lizarte, clients can trust in high-quality components that not only improve the vehicle performance, but they also contribute to a safer and environment-friendly industry.
When we speak about road safety, it is impossible not to highlight the so important role brake systems play.
Did you know that windshield wipers are at the forefront of automotive innovation? These essential systems are no longer just simple accessories; they have evolved into key components that combine advanced technology, sustainability, and intelligent design. Discover how they are transforming road safety and efficiency.
