Question

Explain the working principle of hydraulic power steering in neutral (straight-ahead) position and while turning.

Hint:

Tip: Straight = valve centered, no assist; turning = valve directs fluid, easy steering!

Answer 1

Hydraulic power steering uses hydraulic pressure to assist the driver in turning the wheels with less effort.
Its working can be understood in two conditions:
1. Neutral (Straight-Ahead) Position:
When the steering wheel is in the straight-ahead position, the control valve inside the power steering system remains centered.
In this position, the hydraulic fluid flows back to the reservoir without creating pressure.
There is no assistance provided to the steering, so the wheels stay straight without extra force.
2. While Turning:
When the driver turns the steering wheel, the control valve opens and directs high-pressure fluid to one side of the power cylinder.
This pressurized fluid pushes the piston inside the cylinder, which helps move the steering linkage in the desired direction.
At the same time, fluid from the opposite side returns to the reservoir.
This hydraulic force reduces the physical effort required by the driver to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds or during parking.
The system automatically adjusts to provide more help at low speeds and less assistance at higher speeds for better control.