To prevent unnecessary efforts in turning the hard steering for a long duration drive we use power steering in vehicles Otherwise, drivers would be forced to use all their strength just to turn the steering wheel. It does not take much strength at all for drivers to steer a power steering
There are three types of power steering
1.hydraulic power steering
2. electric power steering
3. cable power steering
There is hydraulic power steering and electric power steering which is generally used in vehicles The cable steering is only used in heavy construction machines. Each one serves the same basic purpose of power steering by allowing you to easily turn the wheel. The difference between these types of power steering relates to how they function. We will go over each type now. However there is always a mechanical link between steering and wheels to prevent steering failure in case of power failure.
How Hydraulic Power Steering Works
Hydraulic power steering is one of the earliest forms of power steering technology. In hydraulic steering pressurized oil is used for assist the steering. A hydraulic pump driven by the car engine use for create the pressure in the system This system is comprised of various components and parts, such as a pump, pulley, drive belt, hoses, and power steering fluid. They all work together to create the hydraulic power which the steering wheel needs to turn so easily. But let’s examine how this pressure is created.
The engine of your car contains a rotary vane pump which produces hydraulic pressure at just the right time. Whenever your turn or rotate the steering wheel, the pump will generate more hydraulic pressure to increase the power of the force as you’re turning the wheel. The pressure increases because additional hydraulic fluid enters the hydraulic cylinder from the valves. Once that happens, the steering gear receives pressure from the cylinder and causes the wheels to move along with the steering
How Electric Power Steering Works
Electric power steering uses fewer components than the hydraulic power steering. The steering rack of this power steering system will contain the electric motor and precious sensors. An electric motor that is mounted on either the steering column or steering gear (usually a rack-and-pinion setup these days) applies torque to the steering column, assisting the driver to turn the steering wheel. Sensors detect the position of the steering wheel and any input from the driver – hauling on the wheel to change the vehicle's direction. A control module applies assistive torque via the electric motor. If the driver is just holding the wheel steady, at the straight-ahead position, the system doesn't provide any assistance.
Not only does EPS offer the advantage of improving fuel economy it also has a few other tricks up its sleeve. Being electronic and computer-controlled the EPS system can be programmed for many different attributes. This system will measure the exact torque of the driver. In other words, when the driver turns the steering wheel, the engine will generate a specific signals and voltage to sustain the demand of this torque. The voltage will only be generated if the steering wheel is turned. This prevents precious power in the vehicle from being wasted. It also means that your engine will last longer, and you won’t need to make repairs so frequently.
Conclusion
So, which type of power steering is better? Most car experts and manufacturers will tell you that electric power steering is better. However in heavy vehicles it is not possible to mount a heavy motor on the steering system and it will consume high voltage and current so manufacturers go for use of the hydraulic one . Hydraulic power steering uses more of the engine’s power and resources than electric power steering. This is going to reduce engine efficiency. Despite the name, electric power steering does not require nearly as much power to perform the same function. Electric power steering racks are typically maintenance free.If you still prefer the hydraulic power steering because you like the feel of the older steering assist, just be aware of all the extra costs associated with its maintenance and possible future repairs.