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Engineering Pod

This course is made for mechanical engineering students and anyone who has problems grasping the reading and understanding of the hydraulic circuit diagrams. At first they can seem complicated and entangled but when you approach them studiously and slowly you see that they are pretty intuitive and simple. In the course you will learn how to read and analyze some basic hydraulic circuits as well as do some hydraulic circuit problems and calculations. At the end of the course there is a short lesson on the Bosch Scheme Editor, a free program for your computer on which you can edit and make your own hydraulic circuits. This is a course that goes along side my first course Hydraulics 101, so if you are not familiar with the basics of hydraulic machines I recommend that you take that course first.

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This course is made for mechanical engineering students and anyone who has problems grasping the reading and understanding of the hydraulic circuit diagrams. At first they can seem complicated and entangled but when you approach them studiously and slowly you see that they are pretty intuitive and simple. In the course you will learn how to read and analyze some basic hydraulic circuits as well as do some hydraulic circuit problems and calculations. At the end of the course there is a short lesson on the Bosch Scheme Editor, a free program for your computer on which you can edit and make your own hydraulic circuits. This is a course that goes along side my first course Hydraulics 101, so if you are not familiar with the basics of hydraulic machines I recommend that you take that course first.

After every lecture there is a quiz so you can recapitulate on your knowledge.

There are 3 sections, the first section is an introduction to hydraulic circuit diagrams, the second section is the part where we will do hydraulic calculations and solve hydraulic problems and the last section is a bonus for people who want to draw their own hydraulic circuit diagrams.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to read hydraulic diagrams
  • Hydraulic diagram symbols
  • How to do basic hydraulic calculations
  • Hydraulic problems
  • How to use the hydraulic diagram editor
  • Choosing the right hydraulic components
  • Hydraulic system sizing

Syllabus

In this section we will be covering the basics of hydraulic diagrams. How to read them and analyze them, also we will be covering the difference between open and closed circuits.
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What will I learn in this course? In the resource part of this lesson there is a PDF called Hydraulics 101. That is a free PDF all of my students get when enrolling in my hydraulics courses. It is all of the basics covered in the course Hydraulics 101 that you will need for this course. If you have no prior knowledge about hydraulics I suggest you download it and read it.

In this introduction lesson we will be talking a little bit about hydraulic diagrams and at the end of the lesson we will analyze a simple hydraulic circuit diagram.

This quiz will cover the materials we did in the first lesson.

In this lesson we will be discussing basic symbol shape and we will cover a little bit about directional control valves used in our hydraulic circuit diagrams.

This quiz will cover materials from the second lesson.

A quick and brief lesson to make sure you understand the numbers that describe directional control valves.

This quiz will be a practice one, to make sure you learned to read DCVs.

The first part of the lesson on hydraulic circuits. This lesson will be covering a basic open loop hydraulic circuit and in the next part we will be covering the closed loop circuit as well as comparing these two. I divided this lesson into two parts because one part would be too long and too hard to focus on the entire time.

The second lesson on hydraulic circuits types. This lesson covers an example of a closed hydraulic circuit.

This quiz will be on open and closed circuits.

This quiz will cover the SI units and parameters we talked about in the previous lesson.

The quiz will be covering the efficiency factors in hydraulics. This is the last quiz in the course.

This quiz will be quick and will cover hydraulic cylinder pressures and calculations.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Includes calculation exercises, which are helpful for students seeking practical application of hydraulic principles and for reinforcing their understanding of theoretical concepts
Covers hydraulic system sizing, which is essential for mechanical engineers involved in designing and implementing hydraulic systems in various applications
Teaches how to use a hydraulic diagram editor, which is useful for students aiming to create and modify hydraulic system designs in a professional setting
Requires prior knowledge of hydraulics, so learners without this background may need to acquire it before fully benefiting from the course
Uses Bosch Scheme Editor, a free program, which lowers the barrier to entry for students who may not have access to expensive software
Includes quizzes after each lecture, which allows learners to assess their understanding and reinforce key concepts throughout the course

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Reviews summary

Hydraulic schematics and calculation exercises review

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation for understanding hydraulic schematics and calculations. Students particularly appreciate the practical exercises and the instructor's ability to explain complex concepts clearly. While some find the pace suitable for beginners, others note it might be too basic if you have prior knowledge. The bonus section on the Bosch Scheme Editor is seen as a useful addition. Overall, it's considered a valuable resource for mechanical engineering students or those new to the subject.
Bonus section on Bosch editor is useful.
"The part about the Bosch Scheme Editor was a useful bonus."
"Liked the bonus section on the software, it's a practical skill."
"Learning to use the editor adds practical value to the course."
Suitable for those new to hydraulics.
"This course is perfect for someone with no prior knowledge of hydraulics."
"As a beginner, I found this course very accessible and easy to follow."
"The course starts with the basics and builds up nicely, great for newcomers."
Includes helpful calculation exercises.
"The calculation exercises were very helpful in solidifying the concepts learned."
"I liked the practical exercises on hydraulic problems, they really helped."
"Doing the exercises provided the practical application I needed."
Concepts are explained clearly and effectively.
"The explanation of the hydraulic circuit diagrams symbols is very clear and easy to understand."
"Instructor explains things clearly and provides good examples for better understanding."
"I found the explanations very clear and concise, which made complex topics digestible."
Might be too simple for those with experience.
"If you already know the basics, some parts might feel a bit slow."
"For intermediate learners, this might be too introductory."
"I felt some lessons were very basic if you've studied hydraulics before."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Hydraulic schematics and calculation exercises with these activities:
Review Hydraulics 101 Concepts
Reinforce foundational knowledge of hydraulics to better understand circuit diagrams and calculations.
Browse courses on Hydraulics
Show steps
  • Review the 'Hydraulics 101' PDF provided in the course resources.
  • Focus on key concepts like pressure, flow, and hydraulic components.
  • Do practice problems related to basic hydraulic principles.
Study 'Industrial Hydraulics Manual'
Gain in-depth knowledge of industrial hydraulic systems with a widely used manual covering design, operation, and maintenance.
View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon
Show steps
  • Focus on sections related to circuit design and troubleshooting.
  • Review the case studies and examples provided.
  • Practice applying the concepts to real-world scenarios.
Practice Hydraulic Circuit Symbol Recognition
Improve familiarity with hydraulic symbols to enhance diagram reading speed and comprehension.
Show steps
  • Create flashcards with hydraulic symbols and their descriptions.
  • Use online resources or textbooks to find a comprehensive list of symbols.
  • Practice identifying symbols in various hydraulic circuit diagrams.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read 'Hydraulics and Pneumatics: A Technician's and Engineer's Guide'
Expand knowledge of hydraulic systems with a comprehensive guide covering principles, components, and applications.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to hydraulic circuits and components.
  • Take notes on key concepts and formulas.
  • Work through the example problems provided in the book.
Create a Hydraulic Circuit Diagram Glossary
Solidify understanding of hydraulic components and their symbols by creating a comprehensive glossary.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of all hydraulic components covered in the course.
  • Find the corresponding symbols for each component.
  • Write a brief description of each component's function in a hydraulic circuit.
  • Organize the glossary alphabetically for easy reference.
Design a Simple Hydraulic Circuit
Apply learned knowledge by designing a functional hydraulic circuit for a specific application.
Show steps
  • Choose a simple application, such as a hydraulic press or lift.
  • Determine the necessary components for the circuit.
  • Draw the hydraulic circuit diagram using the correct symbols.
  • Calculate the required pressure and flow rates for the circuit.
Simulate a Hydraulic Circuit using Software
Validate hydraulic circuit designs and calculations using simulation software for practical application.
Show steps
  • Choose a hydraulic simulation software (e.g., Automation Studio, FluidSIM).
  • Recreate one of the exercises from the course in the software.
  • Run the simulation and analyze the results.
  • Compare the simulation results with the calculated values.

Career center

Learners who complete Hydraulic schematics and calculation exercises will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
A Heavy Equipment Mechanic repairs and maintains large machinery like bulldozers and excavators, which rely heavily on hydraulic systems. A heavy equipment mechanic should be able to read and interpret hydraulic diagrams to diagnose and repair faults. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuit diagrams. The course's emphasis on hydraulic problem-solving strengthens the technician's diagnostic abilities. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor allows for the creation of documentation or modifications to existing hydraulic schematics.
Hydraulic Technician
A Hydraulic Technician specializes in the maintenance, repair, and installation of hydraulic systems and components. Someone in this role must be able to diagnose problems with hydraulic circuits and read hydraulic diagrams. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuit diagrams, which is crucial for technicians who need to quickly and accurately interpret schematics to troubleshoot and repair systems. The course's focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving strengthens a technician's ability to address complex issues, while the introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor may enable the technician to create documentation or modifications to existing schematics.
Hydraulics Instructor
A Hydraulics Instructor teaches students or professionals about hydraulic systems, components, and principles. Someone in this position needs a thorough understanding of hydraulic diagrams and the ability to explain them clearly. This course helps build a foundation in understanding and analyzing hydraulic circuit diagrams, which is crucial for effective instruction. The course's emphasis on calculations and problem-solving strengthens an instructor's ability to explain complex concepts and provide practical examples. The Bosch Scheme Editor segment offers a tool for creating and modifying hydraulic schematics for teaching purposes.
Fluid Power Engineer
A Fluid Power Engineer designs, develops, and tests hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Someone in this position should be able to read and analyze hydraulic circuit diagrams to create efficient and effective designs. This course helps build a foundation in diagram interpretation and problem-solving, essential for engineers working with hydraulic systems. The practical exercises provided in the course can give engineers hands-on experience in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The section on Bosch Scheme Editor equips engineers with a tool for creating and editing hydraulic circuit schematics, improving their design and documentation workflow.
Hydraulic Systems Consultant
A Hydraulic Systems Consultant provides expert advice on the design, operation, and maintenance of hydraulic systems, often requiring advanced knowledge which may include a graduate degree. Hydraulic Systems Consultants need to be able to interpret and analyze complex hydraulic diagrams. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuit diagrams. The course's emphasis on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving is crucial for providing accurate and effective consultation. The hands-on experience with Bosch Scheme Editor enables consultants to create and modify schematics for client projects.
Hydraulic Assembler
A Hydraulic Assembler constructs hydraulic systems and components according to engineering specifications and diagrams. Assemblers must understand hydraulic diagrams to accurately assemble components and ensure proper functionality. This course helps build a foundation in reading and interpreting hydraulic circuit diagrams. Gaining familiarity with hydraulic symbols and circuit layouts helps ensure that assemblies are built correctly and efficiently. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor may enable assemblers to better visualize and understand the systems they are building.
Design Engineer
A Design Engineer creates and develops designs for various mechanical systems, often incorporating hydraulic components. Someone in this role should be competent in reading and interpreting hydraulic circuit diagrams to design effective and reliable systems. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuits and their diagrams. The hydraulic calculations and problem-solving segments of the course are useful for optimizing system performance. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor equips engineers with a practical tool for creating and editing hydraulic schematics.
Automation Engineer
An Automation Engineer designs, develops, and implements automated systems, many of which rely on hydraulics. Anyone working as an automation engineer should be able to understand and interpret hydraulic circuit diagrams to integrate hydraulic components into automated systems effectively. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic diagrams, calculations, and problem-solving. The course's introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor offers a valuable tool for designing and documenting hydraulic circuits within automated systems, thus facilitating effective communication and collaboration with other engineers and technicians.
Service Engineer
A Service Engineer installs, maintains, and repairs complex equipment, often including hydraulic systems. Service engineers must quickly understand hydraulic circuit diagrams to diagnose and resolve issues in the field. This course helps build a foundation in reading and analyzing hydraulic diagrams. The course's focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving strengthens a service engineer's ability to troubleshoot and repair hydraulic systems efficiently. Exposure to the Bosch Scheme Editor may be helpful for creating or modifying schematics for on-site documentation.
Robotics Technician
A Robotics Technician builds, tests, and maintains robotic systems, many of which utilize hydraulic actuators. Robotics technicians must understand hydraulic circuit diagrams to troubleshoot and maintain hydraulic components within robots. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuit diagrams. The course's coverage of hydraulic calculations and problem-solving enhances the ability to diagnose and repair hydraulic issues in robotic systems. The segment on Bosch Scheme Editor may be helpful in documenting or modifying hydraulic schematics for custom robotic applications.
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer works to improve efficiency and productivity in manufacturing processes, often involving hydraulically powered machinery. Manufacturing engineers must understand hydraulic circuit diagrams to maintain and optimize manufacturing equipment. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic circuits. The course's focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving strengthens the ability to analyze and improve hydraulic system performance. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor offers a tool for documenting and optimizing hydraulic schematics in manufacturing setups.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs, develops, and tests mechanical devices and systems, which often include hydraulic components. Understanding hydraulic diagrams is important for mechanical engineers who work with machinery that uses fluid power. This course may be useful in developing a strong understanding of hydraulic circuits and how to interpret their diagrams. The course's focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving enhances an engineer's ability to analyze and optimize hydraulic systems. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor can also be a valuable tool for documenting and communicating hydraulic system designs.
Test Engineer
A Test Engineer designs and executes tests on mechanical and hydraulic systems. Someone in this career role should have a good understanding of hydraulic diagrams to effectively assess system performance and identify potential issues. This course may be useful in developing the knowledge to analyze hydraulic circuits and understand the function of each component. The hydraulic calculations and problem-solving portions of the course strengthen the ability to evaluate system performance data. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor allows for the creation of test setup schematics and documentation.
Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft Mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft, including the hydraulic systems that control flight surfaces and landing gear. Any aircraft mechanic working on this class of systems should be able to read and interpret hydraulic diagrams to diagnose and repair problems. This course helps build a foundation in understanding hydraulic systems. The course's focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving is helpful for analyzing and troubleshooting hydraulic issues in aircraft. The introduction to Bosch Scheme Editor may be useful for understanding aircraft hydraulic schematics.
Agricultural Engineer
An Agricultural Engineer applies engineering principles to agricultural production and processing, often working with hydraulic systems in farm machinery. Agricultural Engineers must be able to interpret hydraulic diagrams to design, maintain, and improve agricultural equipment. This course may be useful in their work by providing an understanding of hydraulic circuits and their components. The focus on hydraulic calculations and problem-solving is helpful for optimizing the performance of hydraulic systems in agricultural applications. The acquaintance with Bosch Scheme Editor helps with creating and modifying schematics for custom equipment designs.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Hydraulic schematics and calculation exercises.
Bridges the gap between theory and practice in hydraulics and pneumatics. It provides a practical guide for technicians and engineers, covering component selection, circuit design, and troubleshooting. The book's focus on real-world applications makes it a valuable resource for those seeking practical knowledge. It useful reference tool for professionals.
This manual widely used resource in the hydraulics industry, offering detailed explanations of hydraulic components, circuits, and systems. It provides practical guidance on design, operation, and maintenance. The book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals. It adds more depth to the course by providing real-world examples and troubleshooting tips.

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