Hydraulic structures

Hydraulic Ram

A Hydraulic Ram or Hydro Ram is a cyclic water pump powered by hydropower. It takes in water at one "hydraulic head" (pressure) and flow rate, and outputs water at a higher hydraulic head and lower flow rate. The device uses the water hammer effect to develop pressure that allows a portion of the input water that powers the pump to be lifted to a point higher than where the water originally started.

History

The hydraulic ram principle was first used by the Ancient Romans in their water systems, but the first self-acting ram pump was invented by the Frenchman Joseph Michel Montgolfier (best known as a co-inventor of the hot air balloon) in 1796 for raising water in his paper mill at Voiron. His friend Matthew Boulton took out a British patent on his behalf in 1797.

Operation

The hydraulic ram is sometimes used in remote areas, where there is both a source of low-head hydropower, and a need for pumping water to a destination higher in elevation than the source. In this situation, the ram is often useful, since it requires no outside source of power other than the kinetic energy of flowing water.

Components

A hydraulic ram has only two moving parts, a spring-loaded waste valve sometimes known as the "clack" valve and a delivery valve, also known as the "check" valve. It also consists of a pressure vessel containing air that provides a cushion for the water pulse from the valve action.

Applications

Hydraulic rams are often used in remote areas where there is both a source of low-head hydropower and a need for pumping water to a destination higher in elevation than the source. They are used worldwide for diverse applications including irrigation, domestic water supply, and even for generating electricity.

See Also

• Water Hammer
• Hydropower
• Water Pump