What is typically the configuration of variable displacement pumps in a hydraulic system?

In hydraulic systems, variable displacement pumps are often configured in parallel to enhance the system's overall efficiency and performance. This configuration allows each pump to handle a portion of the load, which can be useful during varying operational demands and helps to distribute the hydraulic fluid more effectively throughout the system.

When pumps are arranged in parallel, they can share the workload, which can lead to more efficient operation because if one pump requires maintenance or experiences a failure, the other pump can take on a larger share of the load, thus maintaining system functionality. This redundancy increases reliability and ensures that sufficient hydraulic fluid is always available to operate various components.

Configuring pumps in series would not typically apply to variable displacement pumps, as this arrangement could result in a more complex and less efficient system. Similarly, using a single standalone pump may limit the system's flexibility and capacity. Having three pumps for redundancy could also complicate the system without providing significant benefits in typical applications. Parallel configurations leverage the advantages of multiple pumps without the added complexity of series connections.