How to Choose the Correct Pump for Your Application

PowerX has many different types and sizes of high-pressure hydraulic pumps. Each power pack has a variety of flow characteristics and tank sizes to meet your high-pressure application. You must understand the different kinds of pumps, the oil capacity of the cylinder, ram, jack or tool you are going to drive, and the energy resources available.

What Types of Hydraulic Pumps Do You Carry?

Hand Pumps:

The Hydraulic Hand Pump offers a convenient non-electric design for use in off-grid environments. It delivers precise hydraulic force manually. Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry and set up quickly, and the built-in pressure relief valve helps prevent overload for added safety. This power pack provides consistent pressure for lifting, pushing, and pressing applications.

Air-Over Pumps:

Air-Over Foot Treadle Hydraulic Pumps feature high-flow performance and thrive in tough job site conditions. Available in four reservoir sizes—98, 122, 231, and 460 cubic inches—these durable aluminum alloy pumps offer reliable operation across a wide range of applications. Compact yet powerful, they can run various cylinders, rams, or jacks with minimal noise. They are ideal for tasks like pressing bearings or bending bar stock. These pumps operate up to 15% faster than the industry standard and come factory-set at 10,000 PSI, with adjustable pressure settings available upon request.

Electric Hydraulic Pumps:

The Electric Hydraulic Pump offers easy, high-pressure output and is built for continuous use in demanding industrial settings. Choose from single- or double-acting designs, multiple electric control options, and reservoir sizes of 2, 3, 5, or 10 gallons. Each power pack includes interchangeable 2 or 3-position directional control valves and an external adjustable relief valve to set maximum operating pressure. A one-piece mounting plate for the motor and valve with an integrated high-flow unloading system ensures optimal efficiency. Equipped with universal motors (50/60 Hz, 115V/230V), these pumps offer dependable operation—even under load—and can run on clean or dirty power.

Torque Wrench Pumps:

Lastly, Torque Wrench Pumps operate at low noise levels that comply with OSHA standards. They include a user-friendly adjustable relief valve, allowing pressure settings from 2,000 to 10,000 PSI. For added convenience and safety, the electric solenoid valve is controlled via a remote, offering fingertip operation to reduce operator fatigue and enable use from a safer distance.

Where Will You Use It?

Now that we’ve established the types of high-pressure hydraulic pumps we carry, let’s look at the environment you will use our pumps in.

If you are in a remote area and do not have access to electricity or compressed air, choose a PowerX hand pump. This type of pump is portable and runs off manual power; so, roll up your sleeves and get to work!

However, if shop air or a compressor is available, then PowerX’s efficient air hydraulic pump gets the job done. The air-over pumps are an economical solution for applications where multiple cycles of the hydraulic cylinder or tool is required. For jobs in a hazardous environment, like mining applications, a ‘spark free’ air-driven hydraulic pump offers a safer solution and keeps the jobsite OSHA-approved.

When electrical power is an option, PowerX’s electric pumps are durable for continuous use in demanding industrial settings. Use them for larger lifting applications or for integration into machinery which requires repeatable and consistent tool activation. An example of this would be a hydraulic press. They are compatible with a wide range of cylinders and hydraulic tools.

For bolting applications that require high precision and repeatable torque, like pipeline construction, wind turbine maintenance, or heavy equipment assembly, use our torque wrench pump. Designed to deliver consistent hydraulic pressure, these power units are ideal when accuracy, speed, and controlled bolting are critical. Pair them with a hydraulic torque wrench for safe, efficient, and reliable fastening, whether you’re in the field or on the factory floor.

When electrical power is an option, PowerX’s electric pumps are durable for continuous use in demanding industrial settings.

Which Size Pump Do I Need?

Once you have determined what type of high-pressure hydraulic pump your application requires, you then need to decide which size pump you need. This is done in two steps. First, calculate the usable oil needed by the cylinder/tool that will be actuated. Then, choose a pump with the correct amount of usable oil in its reservoir. Sounds hard? This is not a hard decision, but it can be a confusing one.

To help make the job easier, PowerX has come up with a chart below to make your job much easier. Simply locate the size of the cylinder you will be using and follow the corresponding line back to the PowerX pumps. You can use any pump that has a black dot in the row. If the corresponding dot is red, that pump is not recommended. If the dot is yellow, then you will want to check your requirements again to ensure it’s the right choice.

For setups that require multiple cylinders, give one of our application engineers a call at 414-988-6202 and they will help you with your system requirements.

First, calculate the usable oil needed by the cylinder/tool that will be actuated. Then, choose a pump with the correct amount of usable oil in its reservoir.

Still Need Help Finding the Right Fit for You?

Another way to determine the right sized hydraulic pump for your lift is to view or download our catalog. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the ready-to-ship power unit options available.

Are our pre-built pumps not quite right for your upcoming job? We also feature a Custom Hydraulic Electric Pump Configurator to help you create a custom quote and a quick review from our engineering department. PowerX electric hydraulic pumps are built for flexibility. Whether you need a standard setup or a fully customized solution, we can tailor reservoirs, manifolds, motors, and electrical configurations to match your exact specs. Popular options include pressure switches, different valve configurations, and various pendant control styles.

PowerX International has the expertise to help you with your lift requirements and the high-quality hydraulic jacks, hydraulic pumps and hydraulic systems to get the job done. Contact PowerX at 414-988-6202 for all your high-pressure hydraulic needs.