Power steering

Power steering - a device designed not only to provide comfort, but also to improve safety when driving. Thanks to the presence of this part, the control over the machine remains even when the front tire is broken.

The power steering was designed to reduce the effort that the driver applies to the steering wheel. This is of particular importance in the management of trucks. Despite the complexity of the device and the high cost, hydraulic boosters are widely used in the construction of cars. This is mainly due to the fact that, in addition to its basic functions, these details contribute to a reduction in the gear ratio of the control mechanism. Due to this, the number of turns of the rudder between its extreme positions is reduced. This, in turn, increases maneuverability.

The power steering provides softening of impacts, which are transmitted to the control mechanism when driving on uneven roads. As a result, the fatigue of the driver is significantly reduced, and when the front tire is broken, the controllability is not lost.

The power steering includes several elements.

To ensure circulation and pressure of the working fluid, a pump is used. The most commonly used plate pumps, because they have high efficiency and low sensitivity to wear of working surfaces. The pump is mounted on the motor, its drive is provided from the crankshaft by means of a belt drive.

The distribution (direction) of fluid in a certain cavity in the hydraulic cylinder or back to the tank is carried out by means of a distributor. It can be rotary or axial. In the first case, the movable element of the part moves translationally, and in the second case it rotates. The part can be located on one shaft with a control mechanism or on components of a steering drive. The distributor is a high-precision unit, sufficiently sensitive to oil contamination.

Transformation of the fluid pressure, as well as the movement of the piston and the rod, turning by means of the system of the levers of the wheel, carries out the hydraulic cylinder. This part can be integrated into the control mechanism or be between the drive elements and the body.

Through the working fluid (special oil), the force is transferred from the pump towards the hydraulic cylinder. As a reservoir for this liquid serves as a tank, which includes a filter element. In the plug is located the probe, by means of which the level of liquid is determined.

Circulation of liquid through the system is carried out by means of connecting hoses. The connection of the hydraulic cylinder, pump and distributor is made by means of high pressure hoses.

In modern car designs an electronic unit is used. Due to it, the operation of the hydraulic booster is adjusted in accordance with the speed of the machine. This detail provides additional safety at high speeds, since it is more difficult for the driver to turn the steering wheel sharply, thus deflecting the auto from the trajectory.

In order to prevent the power steering from getting out of commission earlier, it is recommended to monitor its efficiency. To do this, perform certain operations. It should be noted that repairing the power steering is a laborious process and requires some qualification. To prevent occurrence of various unforeseen situations, experts recommend regularly checking and adjusting (if necessary) the tension of the drive belt, once a year (or every two years), the oil and filter element should be replaced . Replacement of these components is also carried out in the case when the color of the working fluid has changed.