The Oil Pump: The Heart of Engine Lubrication
The oil pump is a critical component in an internal combustion engine. Its primary function is to circulate engine oil under pressure to lubricate the rotating bearings, sliding pistons, and camshaft. Let’s delve into how oil pumps work, their types, and their significance in engine performance.Get more news about Oil Pump,you can vist our website!
How Does an Oil Pump Work?
The oil pump sucks oil up from the sump (oil pan) and forces it through oilways within the engine. Here’s how it operates:
Forced-Feed System: Modern engines use a fully forced-feed lubrication system. Unlike early drip-feed systems, which relied on gravity, forced-feed systems actively pump oil to various engine parts.
Positive Displacement Pump: Oil pumps are positive displacement pumps, meaning the amount of oil leaving the pump equals the amount entering. As engine RPM increases, the pump turns faster, delivering more oil for lubrication and cooling.
Driven by Crankshaft: Most oil pumps are directly driven by the crankshaft. Their internal gears or rotors mesh with the crankshaft, ensuring a consistent flow of oil.
Oil Pressure: While the oil pump creates flow, oil pressure results from restrictions within the engine (narrow passages, jet nozzles, and bearing clearances). Worn bearings can lead to reduced oil pressure.
Pickup Pipe and Filter: The pickup pipe extends into the sump, drawing oil. A mesh filter prevents large particles from entering the pump. If the filter clogs, bypass valves may allow oil flow to prevent engine damage.
Types of Oil Pumps
Various pump types are used:
Gear Pumps: Commonly used, gear pumps have meshing gears that move oil.
Trochoid Pumps: Also known as gerotor pumps, they use inner and outer rotors.
Vane Pumps: These pumps have vanes that slide in and out to create oil flow.
Pump Drive
Mechanical Drive: Oil pumps are mechanically driven by geartrains from the crankshaft. Camshaft or distributor shafts often drive them.
Low Placement: To avoid priming issues, oil pumps are mounted low-down, near the oil level in the sump.
Electric Pumps: Electric pumps (e.g., turbo timer pumps) supplement the main mechanical pump but are not a replacement.
