The influence of external mechanical vibrations on hydraulic microvalves. Test stand design and preliminary tests

Fluid pressure fluctuations in a microhydraulic system can be caused by fluctuations in the rate of fluid delivery, due to the operational kinematics of the micropump’s displacement elements, as well as by external excitations. This paper presents the requirements for microhydraulic systems and indicates the disturbances that can occur during operation. A test stand was designed to identify the impact of external mechanical vibrations on microhydraulic elements. Test stand was equipped with a measuring system to generate and record vibrations and examine their effect on the operation of microhydraulic components. Set parameters and operating conditions of the system during measurements were given. A relief microvalve was chosen, as a representative microhydraulic component. Based on the measurements, additional component derived from external vibrations was identified in frequency spectrum of pressure pulsations.