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Precise Pressure Measurement: Key to Optimizing Electric Oil Pumps

Written by STS | Jun 23, 2025 1:16:34 PM

The development of electric oil pumps demands high standards in sensor technology – especially in pressure measurement. Only when the pressure profile can be recorded and analyzed precisely can the pump's function be evaluated under real conditions, optimized, and secured for the long term.

Why is pressure measurement so important in electric oil pumps?

Electric oil pumps are increasingly used in areas where conventional, mechanically driven systems reach their limits – such as in hybrid and electric vehicles or in modern industrial plants. To ensure high energy efficiency, precise delivery performance, and reliable lubrication, the pressure generated must be regulated and monitored within tight tolerances.

Even small deviations can impair the function of the pump and consequently the entire system. For developers, this means: Pressure measurement must not only be accurate but also reproducible and temperature-stable – even under dynamic load changes.

Measurement setup in development

Integration into the test bench

During the development phase, the electric oil pump is integrated into a test bench to simulate various operating scenarios. Pressure sensors measure the system pressure in real time – for example, in the delivery circuit, before and after the control valve, or directly at the pump outlet.

Sensor requirements

The pressure sensors used must meet high requirements:

  • High accuracy and reproducibility
  • Low temperature dependency
  • Fast response time for dynamic measurements
  • Robust design for use in harsh environments

Practical example: Optimizing an electric oil pump

An automotive manufacturer developed a new electric oil pump for use in hybrid vehicles. During the testing phase, the development team found that the pump did not generate the required pressure under certain operating conditions. With the help of precise pressure measurements, the cause was identified: An inadequate design of the control valve led to pressure losses.

By adjusting the valve design and re-validating with pressure sensors, the pump was optimized. The result: Reliable pressure supply across the entire operating range and an improvement in the overall system efficiency.

Conclusion

Accurate pressure measurement is a crucial factor in the development of electric oil pumps. It allows the identification and elimination of weaknesses in the system, contributes to component optimization, and ensures the reliable operation of the pump. High-quality pressure sensors are therefore an indispensable tool for developers in this field.