Pumps

For most hydraulic tools, the standard operating pressure is around 700 bar, which is 10000 psi. This is the typical range manufacturers design for, ensuring tools perform efficiently without excessive wear.

Some examples of general tooling pressures are as follows (however we would always recommend following manufacturers guidelines) -

• Light hydraulic tools: ~100–300 bar / 1450–4350 psi
• Standard industrial hydraulic tools: ~400–700 bar / 5800–10000 psi
• High-force applications (e.g. crimpers, cutters): commonly 700 bar / 10000 psi)

For note when comparing bar against PSI, one bar is the equivalent to 14.5 psi.

Hydraulic tools require pumps to operate at extremely high pressures (often up to 700 bar / 10,000 psi), which allows them to generate far greater force than air tools.

In addition, hydraulic tools can provide the operator with enhanced control over air tools. This is because hydraulic fluid is incompressible, so the force that is applied is smooth and predictable.

Pneumatic tools are lighter and faster to operate, however hydraulic tooling can deliver high force with less effort, which reduces operator fatigue during repetitive or demanding tasks.

The short answer is, not always. 

Generally hydraulic systems are designed for intermittent use, especially in tools like crimpers or cutters. Running hydraulic tooling systems continuously at high pressure can lead to heat buildup, fluid degradation and also component wear. The working cycle should look like - 

1. System builds pressure
2. Performs task
3. Rests and cools down

However, some industrial scale hydraulic pumps are designed for continuous use, such as gear pumps, piston pumps and vane pumps. This is because they have systems designed to cool them or adjust output based on demand. 

A foot pump is powered by pressing on the foot pad and doesnt require batteries, which is an obvious advantage to have because there is no risk of power loss, charging downtime or battery degradation. This makes them ideal for use in remote locations, harsh environments or critical jobs where consistent operation is essential. In addition, because the pressure is controlled by the operators foot, it means the operator has use of both hands at all times, which improves safety and precision.

Battery powered pumps do have some advantages over hydraulic foot pumps though, because they are faster and less physically demanding to use, which makes them more suitable for high-volume or repetitive tasks where speed matters.