A hydraulic system in principle comprises the generative section in which the hydraulic energy is in general produced by hydraulic pumps, the conducting section, comprising and fluid power control devices (control elements) and the motor section in which the hydraulic energy is converted into mechanical energy (in general a stroke or rotary movement). In the allocation of the generative section to the individual actuators a differentiation is made between (Figure A 23):
- Single drives and single-circuit drives,
- Group drives,
- Central hydraulic oil supply.
Which system is appropriate for the specific case depends on a series of factors, such as
- Do malfunctions occur due to interaction between individual circuits?
- Operating safety, backup operation,
- Clarity of the layout, effort and space required,
- Ease of repair and maintenance.