The capacity of a hydraulic reservoir should be how many times the GPM of a pump?

The capacity of a hydraulic reservoir is ideally determined to be 2-3 times the gallons per minute (GPM) output of the pump. This range allows for adequate fluid storage, ensuring that there is enough hydraulic fluid available to accommodate system demand without straining the pump during operation.

Having a reservoir that is 2-3 times the pump's GPM capacity helps manage fluid temperature, maintain system efficiency, and account for fluid losses due to leakage or other factors. It also provides a buffer for peak flow demands and allows the system to operate smoothly without interruptions that could arise from running the pump dry or at low fluid levels.

Choosing a reservoir that is significantly under the recommended capacity can lead to insufficient fluid supply, overheating, and increased wear on the pump. On the other hand, excessively large reservoirs may complicate systems unnecessarily, resulting in higher costs and more complex maintenance. Hence, the 2-3 times guideline effectively balances these factors for optimal performance.