Designing a Simple Hydraulic Lift for Pascal's Principle Presentation

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In summary, the author is looking for help with designing a hydraulic lift. He is considering using tape as the piston, using an old-fashioned bicycle pump, or modifying a hatchback gas strut.
  • #1
Tobes
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I have this project for school and it is all about Pascal's Principle. Well I've decided I would like to make a hydraulic lift to go along with my presentation and just need some help with the design.

I figure I can make it out of PVC or Copper tubing, either way I don't mind buying most of the materials. I just need a sort of "U" shape lift that I think would work, my problem is that I don't know what I could use for the "piston" portion. If it came down to it I guess I could just use two different size seringes(sp?) but I don't want to settle for less.

Any ideas? Not clear enough?
 
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  • #2
I guess this doesn't count as doing your homework for you. Until I read down to where you discounted it, I was actually going to recommend using syringes. I got well over 100 lbs. of lift from a 50cc unit using compressed air.
If you want something bigger and/or classier, you could use an old style bicycle pump or modify a hatch-back gas strut.
In the event that you want to make your own, go ahead and use ABS or PVC pipe. You can make a piston simply by filing a groove around the circumference of a puck-shaped item (in fact, why not a puck?) and installing an O-ring for sealing. Screw a piece of theaded rod or just a big bolt into the centre and attach your clevis or whatever to the other end.
 
  • #3
Ok thanks that helps a lot!
 
  • #4
Another idea for a piston would be to take any cylindrical object such as a jar or hocky puck as suggested by Danger, and wrap tape around it to build it up so the OD fits just right into the ID of the pipe.

If you wanted to use the O-ring idea, it might be easier to layer on some tape and put two more layers above and below the O-ring to center it.

Hmmm... tape again. Must tell you something about my mentality. :frown:
 
  • #5
Q_Goest said:
Hmmm... tape again. Must tell you something about my mentality. :frown:
You have got to be a Red Green fan. :biggrin:
Good idea about the tape.
 
  • #6
Thanks, Ill let you guys know how it turns out.
 

1. How does a simple hydraulic lift work?

A simple hydraulic lift works by using the principle of Pascal's law, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid will be transmitted equally in all directions. In a hydraulic lift, a small force is applied to a small surface area, which creates a high pressure. This pressure is transmitted through a confined fluid to a larger surface area, resulting in a larger force being exerted.

2. What are the main components of a simple hydraulic lift?

The main components of a simple hydraulic lift include a small piston, a larger piston, a hydraulic fluid (usually oil), and connecting pipes or tubes. The small piston is connected to the handle or lever that is used to apply the force, while the larger piston is connected to the platform or object that needs to be lifted.

3. What are the advantages of using a simple hydraulic lift?

One of the main advantages of using a simple hydraulic lift is that it allows for the lifting of heavy objects with relatively little force. It also provides a smooth and controlled lifting motion, making it safer and more efficient than using manual labor. Additionally, hydraulic lifts are relatively low maintenance and have a long lifespan.

4. How much weight can a simple hydraulic lift handle?

The weight capacity of a simple hydraulic lift varies depending on the size and strength of the components used. However, most hydraulic lifts can handle loads ranging from a few hundred pounds to several tons.

5. Are there any safety precautions to consider when using a simple hydraulic lift?

Yes, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind when using a simple hydraulic lift. It is important to ensure that the lift is in good working condition and that the weight of the load does not exceed the weight capacity of the lift. It is also important to use caution when operating the lift and to never place body parts under the lifted object. Regular maintenance and inspections can help ensure the safe and proper use of a hydraulic lift.

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