How Does An Air Hydraulic Jack Work?

14 Jul.,2023

 

Even if you already have a variety of car lifts around your workshop, the ease and convenience of an air hydraulic jack are second-to-none.

Not only are they lightweight compared to other alternatives (averaging around 30kg), but they have a powerful lifting capacity that makes them a versatile and useful tool for every mechanic.

What Is An Air Hydraulic Jack?

An air hydraulic jack combines compressed air and hydraulic fluid to create a sudden, intense force that will lift heavy loads somewhere between 15 and 30 tonnes.  

What Parts Make Up An Air Hydraulic Jack?

They consist of multiple different components, including (but not limited to):

  1. A cylinder.
  2. A series of pistons.
  3. An oil chamber.
  4. An air compressor.
  5. A control valve.
  6. A pressure gauge.
  7. A series of pumps.


Because of this, each one can look quite different.

How Does an Air Hydraulic Jack Work?

Together, the parts of an air hydraulic jack work to shift oil at pace, triggering the pressure-fueled reaction that can lift a vehicle by 2-3 feet. Over time, this energy bleeds out into the environment and lowers your project back to the ground – making them very unsafe to climb under. 

The Importance of Understanding How an Air Hydraulic Jack Works

Before anyone purchases an air hydraulic jack, they need to have a firm grasp of the science behind one. Although they are sometimes marketed as a car lift or hoist, they are not suitable for complex fixes that require extended work. Never go underneath your vehicle with just an air hydraulic jack in place.

What Are The Advantages of Air Hydraulic Jacks?

As long as the air hydraulic jack is set up properly and stable on the floor, it will be significantly stronger than other alternatives, including:

  • Scissor Jacks
  • Screw Jacks
  • House Jacks

What Are The Disadvantages of Air Hydraulic Jacks?

In theory, they should be able to hold a car indefinitely but this isn’t likely. When working with bigger or heavier vehicles, the pressure created by the pumps will fade faster, so move carefully.

How to Use an Air Hydraulic Jack Safely

When you want to use an air hydraulic jack, the first thing you need to do is inspect it for any visible or obvious damage. If you have any doubts at all, don’t proceed with using it.

Once you are satisfied that it is still in good condition, follow the instructions provided with your equipment. Don’t be tempted to take shortcuts or rush the process and take the time to:

  1. Change the oil when required.
  2. Lubricate the parts regularly.
  3. Put on PPE before use.
  4. Utilise jack stands for extended projects.
  5. Review your surroundings.

The Different Types of Air Hydraulic Jacks

Although air hydraulic reactions are most commonly used in bottle jacks, some floor jacks, transmission jacks, and tall jacks also leverage compressed air and oil. 

As such, there’s a wide variety of choices available when it comes to purchasing one for yourself. Do you have a specific preference?

What is the weight capacity of hydraulic car jacks?

Hydraulic car jacks come in a variety of weight capacities, ranging from 1 tonne to 80 tonnes or more. It’s important to choose a jack with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your vehicle to ensure safe and efficient lifting. Our AutoQuip KT-80T2 can lift between 40 tonne and 80 tonne.

How do I choose the right hydraulic car jack?

When choosing a hydraulic car jack, it’s important to consider the weight of your vehicle. Look for a jack with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your car. You should also consider the lifting height, as well as the size and shape of the jack to ensure it can fit under your vehicle.

How do I maintain my hydraulic car jack?

Regular maintenance is important to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your hydraulic car jack. Keep the jack clean and free of debris, regularly lubricate moving parts, and check the hydraulic fluid level to ensure it’s at the recommended level.

Can hydraulic car jacks be used on all types of vehicles?

Hydraulic car jacks can be used on most types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. However, it’s important to choose a jack with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your specific vehicle to ensure safe and efficient lifting.

Can hydraulic car jacks be used on uneven surfaces?

While hydraulic car jacks are designed to be used on flat and stable surfaces, some models may be able to be used on slightly uneven surfaces. However, it’s important to ensure the surface is stable and level to prevent the jack from tipping over during use.

How much do air hydraulic jacks cost?

The cost of air hydraulic jacks can vary depending on the brand, size, and lifting capacity. Generally speaking, smaller jacks with lower lifting capacities will be less expensive than larger jacks with higher lifting capacities. At AAQ, prices for air hydraulic jacks range from AU $299 for our (smaller) 3-Tonne Hydraulic Floor Jack to AU $1,530 for our Autoquip KT-80T2 40-80 tonne lifting jack.

At AAQ, we sell an extensive and high-quality range of air hydraulic jacks that are worth checking out. Visit our website today to browse, or contact us to find out more.

With high quality products and considerate service, we will work together with you to enhance your business and improve the efficiency. Please don't hesitate to contact us to get more details of how to bleed hydraulic jack.