Expert: Ray Wilkinson - 2/27/2009

Question
Ray,
you mentioned the A380. The high pressure hydraulic  pumps often generate destructive 'pulsations'. Does Airbus use pulsation dampers-sort of round globe, to damp pulsations on A340-500/600 and A380?
thanks, bob

Answer
Hi Bob

I haven't come across this term before, so I can't answer your question directly. From your description it sounds like you may be referring to hydraulic accumulators, which store fluid under pressure when system demand is low and return it when demand is high, but you might be talking about something different. I had a long (3 hours) discussion with someone from the systems group and he went through all the systems on the A380 last time I was in Toulouse. However, that was five years or so ago and there was a lot to take in in that discussion so I can't remember a lot of it. The A380 hydraulics operate at 4000psi of course, compared to most aircraft which are 3000psi, which you obviously are aware of.

Sorry, I'm not sure this helps with your question. If it's important and I haven't answered you then I can follow up with some contacts in Toulouse, or maybe put you in touch with them directly.