Overview - ISO 17559:2003 (Hydraulic fluid power - Electrically controlled hydraulic pumps)
ISO 17559:2003 defines standardized test methods to determine the steady-state and dynamic performance characteristics of positive-displacement electrically or electronically controlled hydraulic pumps. It applies to pumps that change output flow or pressure in proportion to electrical/electronic input signals, including load-sensing control, servo-control and electrically variable-displacement types. The standard establishes test installations, measurement procedures and result presentation so different components can be compared reliably.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope of tests: Steady-state performance (flow/pressure characteristics, minimum flow command, minimum controllable pressure, pressure-compensation behavior) and dynamic performance (pressure compensator response, step response vs. pressure/flow, frequency response).
- Test installations: Two main circuit types are described (pressure-compensation with flow control and electrically signalled displacement control). Typical test rig elements: pump under test, loading valve, directional control, variable restrictor, torque meter, speed indicator, electrical pressure and flow transducers, signal sources and recorders.
- Test fluid and environment: Requires specified hydraulic fluid viscosity classes (ISO VG 32 or VG 46 per ISO 3448) and controlled contamination levels (ISO 4406). A controlled inlet fluid temperature and recorded ambient conditions are required (see clause 6).
- Measurement accuracy: Three accuracy classes (A, B, C) with permissible variations for controlled parameters - temperature, rotational speed and input signal. Example limits (classes A/B/C): temperature ±0.5 / ±1 / ±2 °C; rotational speed ±0.5 / ±1 / ±2 %; input signal ±0.5 / ±1.5 / ±2.5 %.
- Result presentation: Graphical plots (e.g., output flow vs. output pressure), calculation of adjustable flow change rate δq = (∆q / q0) × 100, hysteresis and other characteristic performance metrics.
Applications - who uses ISO 17559
- Hydraulic pump and component manufacturers - for R&D, design verification and performance claims.
- Independent test laboratories and OEMs - to perform standardized comparative testing and acceptance checks.
- System integrators and procurement teams - to specify test requirements and verify supplier data.
- Certification bodies and quality/maintenance engineers - for conformity assessment, traceable testing and troubleshooting dynamic behavior in control loops.
Related standards and keywords
- Related ISO documents referenced: ISO 3448, ISO 4406, ISO 4409, ISO 4391, ISO 5598.
- SEO keywords: electrically controlled hydraulic pumps, hydraulic fluid power, test methods, performance characteristics, pressure-compensation, steady-state tests, dynamic response, ISO 17559.
ISO 17559:2003 helps ensure repeatable, comparable performance data for electrically controlled hydraulic pumps - essential for reliable hydraulic system design, supplier evaluation and performance benchmarking.