Vane Pumps

Quiet, Efficient and Adaptable

Hydraulic vane pumps are known for their smooth operation, low noise levels, and high volumetric efficiency especially in systems requiring continuous flow. These positive displacement pumps use sliding vanes to move fluid through an eccentric chamber, delivering consistent performance with minimal pulsation. The working pressure doesn’t tend to exceed 175 bar, however several pumps that have been designed specially may surpass pressures of 200 bar and reach up to 300 bar.

Available in both fixed and variable displacement configurations, vane pumps are ideal for low-viscosity fluids and high-speed applications where quiet operation and compact design are key.

Our website shows only a selection of what we supply. For impartial advice and access to our full range of hydraulic components, contact our expert team.

vane pump. For impartial advice and access to our full range of hydraulic components, contact our expert team.

Vane pumps operate using a rotor fitted with rectangular vanes that slide in and out of slots as the rotor spins inside an offset cavity. Here’s how they work:

As the rotor turns, vanes extend outward and seal against the pump housing.
This creates expanding chambers that draw fluid in through the inlet port.
As the rotor continues, the chambers contract, pushing fluid out through the outlet port.
The direction of flow can be reversed by changing the pump’s rotation.

Because the vanes maintain contact with the housing, the pump delivers a steady flow with minimal pressure ripple – even at relatively high speeds

Vane pumps are available in two main types:

Fixed displacement: Delivers a constant volume of fluid per revolution – ideal for predictable flow rates.
Variable displacement: Flow can be adjusted based on system demand – improving energy efficiency and control

Unlike gear pumps, vane pumps don’t require changing the prime mover speed to alter displacement, making them more flexible in dynamic hydraulic systems.

When might a vane pump be a suitable choice for my hydraulic system? A vane pump is a strong fit when your system needs smooth, low‑pulsation flow, quiet operation, and good efficiency at moderate pressures. They’re especially suitable for high‑speed, continuous‑duty applications, or systems using low‑viscosity fluids where gear pumps may be too noisy and piston pumps unnecessarily complex.

How do vane pumps handle changes in viscosity or temperature? Vane pumps perform best with low to medium viscosity fluids. Because the vanes rely on maintaining contact with the housing, very thick fluids can increase wear or reduce efficiency, while very thin fluids at high temperatures may reduce sealing. Choosing the right fluid and filtration level is key to long service life.

What factors most influence the reliability of a vane pump in continuous‑duty systems? Reliability depends on clean fluid, proper inlet conditions, and ensuring the pump operates within its pressure and speed limits. Vane pumps are durable when correctly specified, but they are more sensitive to contamination than gear pumps. Good filtration and appropriate housing materials make a significant difference to long‑term performance.

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