Garbage Trucks

Garbage trucks, also known as refuse trucks or waste collection vehicles, often utilize hydraulic systems to facilitate the collection and compaction of waste. Hydraulic equipment on garbage trucks plays a crucial role in various functions, including lifting and emptying containers, compacting waste, and controlling other operational aspects. Here are some common hydraulic components and equipment used on garbage trucks:

Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU):

The hydraulic power unit includes a hydraulic pump, tank (reservoir), and associated components. It generates hydraulic power to operate various functions of the garbage truck.

Hydraulic Cylinders:

Lift cylinders: Hydraulic cylinders are used to lift and tilt the garbage container or bin for emptying its contents into the truck.

Ejector cylinders: Some trucks have ejector cylinders that push or compact the waste inside the truck body.

Control Valves:

Hydraulic control valves regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid to different cylinders, controlling the movements of the lifting and compaction mechanisms.

Compaction System:

Compaction mechanisms use hydraulic cylinders to compress and compact waste inside the truck body. This can involve a compaction plate or blade that moves horizontally or vertically.

Packer Blade:

The packer blade, often part of the compaction system, is a hydraulically operated plate that pushes waste towards the rear of the truck for efficient compaction.

Bin Lifter/Tipper:

Hydraulic systems are used for lifting and tipping garbage bins or containers into the truck body. The lifter may have a gripper mechanism to securely hold and tip the bins.

Ejector Mechanism (Optional):

Some garbage trucks use an ejector mechanism, which is a hydraulically powered system that pushes the compacted waste out of the truck body for unloading.

Hydraulic Hoses and Fittings:

High-pressure hydraulic hoses and fittings connect various hydraulic components, ensuring a secure and leak-free flow of hydraulic fluid.

Hydraulic Tanks:

The hydraulic tank (reservoir) stores hydraulic oil needed for the operation of the hydraulic system, ensuring a continuous supply of oil to the pump and cylinders.

Pneumatic Controls (Optional):

Pneumatic controls may be used in conjunction with hydraulic systems for certain functions, providing additional flexibility and control.

Safety Features:

Garbage trucks often include safety features in the hydraulic system, such as pressure relief valves and interlocks, to ensure safe and controlled operations.

Electric or Manual Controls:

Controls for the hydraulic system can be electrically operated or manually operated, allowing the operator to control various functions from the cab or a remote control panel.

Proper maintenance and regular inspections of the hydraulic system are essential to ensure the reliable and safe operation of garbage trucks. The specific features and design of hydraulic systems can vary among different types and models of garbage trucks.