A.

HYDRAULIC OPEN-CENTER SYSTEM

B. HYDRAULIC CLOSED-CENTER
SYSTEM


HYDRAULIC OPEN-CENTER SYSTEM
In this system, a control-valve spool must be open in the center to allow pump flow to
pass through the valve and return to the reservoir.
In the illustration below, shows this system in the neutral position.
To operate several functions simultaneously, an open-center system must have the
correct connections, such as, series, series / parallel connection, and flow divider.
An open-center system is efficient on single functions but is limited with multiple
functions.
OPEN-CENTER SYSTEM
HYDRAULIC OPEN-CENTER SYSTEM
ADVANTAGES:

Simple system circuit easy to
develop

Low pressure during circulation

Less vibration and tear

Less energy loss due to leakage

Less maintenance
HYDRAULIC CLOSED-CENTER SYSTEM
In this system, a pump can rest when the oil is not required to operate a function. This
means that a control valve is closed in the center, stopping the flow of the oil from the
pump.
When in neutral, oil is pumped until the pressure rises to a predetermined level. A
pressure regulating valve (pressure switch) allows the pump to shut off by itself and
maintain this pressure to the valve.
CLOSED-CENTER SYSTEM
HYDRAULIC CLOSED-CENTER SYSTEM
This system does not require relief valves because the pump simply shuts off by itself
when standby pressure is reached. The prevents heat buildup in systems where relief
pressure is frequently reached.

The size of the lines, valves and cylinders can be tailored to the flow requirements of
each function.

It is more efficient on functions such as brakes, which require force but very little
piston movement.
HYDRAULIC CLOSED-CENTER SYSTEM
ADVANTAGES:

Reducing usage of engine
power pump will be operating
while system required oil

Immediate action oil will be
kept at the high pressure level

Reducing time of operation

OPEN-CENTER vs CLOSED-CENTER
OPEN-CENTER SYSTEM CLOSED-SYSTEM CENTER
Pump operates continuously even
the DCV is in neutral position.
Using DCV mid position
recirculating.
Using relief valve to control the
pressure of hydraulic fluid.
There is no drop pressure when the
cylinder starts moving.

Pump will stop operating when the
DCV in neutral position.
Using DCV mid position close.
Using pressure switch to control the
pressure of hydraulic fluid.
Pressure begins to drop while the
cylinder starts to move.
CONCLUSION
With a closed-center system, the quantity of
oil to each function to be controlled by line
or valve size with less heat build up when
compared to the flow dividers necessary in a
comparable open-center system.