i'm using arduino to control a hydraulic mower. But to control the speed of the hydraulic motor i need to have a variable current from 200mA to 2000mA at a constante voltage of 12Volts. Does anybody knows if this is possible with Arduino ?
You can't exactly do that...
You can use PWM (analogWrite() with a motor drive (an H-bridge if you need to change directions) to vary the average energy (voltage, current and power) into a motor, solenoid, or LED, etc.
Ohm's Law says Current = Voltage / Resistance. Since the resistance/impedance isn't adjustable, you have to reduce the voltage in order to reduce current.
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A MOSFET properly connected to the PWM output can drive the valve for you.
This says you have a constant hydraulic pressure. Is this true?
Post a link to the valve's datasheet or brand name and exact part number.
A hydraulic motor is a motor that's actuated by a hydraulic pressure, no electricity involved.
I think you mean a hydraulic pump - i.e. an electric motor that runs a pump to produce hydraulic pressure?
I think the OP has a proportional flow control valve and needs a variable current source, but without specifications...?
I agree with JCA34F above. Sounds like what you want is commonly called a Voltage Controlled Current Source. Used to control all sorts of proportional valves. I have seen modules but you can build or buy. Build is not that complicated or difficult depending on your skill level.
Ron
I have a combustion motor that runs a hydraulic pump at a constant debit.
To control the speed of the hydraulic motor (that gets its oil from the hydraulic pump) I have a 3 way proportional valve that controls the debit to the motor. This valve opens from 0% (12V 200mA) to 100%(12V 2000mA). So the voltage should stay, the same but the current changes from 200mA to 2000mA.
Yes and what you want / need is what is called a voltage controlled current source capable of two amps. Try a Google of "voltage controlled current source" and you should get the idea. Also it's not about the 12 volts or any other voltage. Your proportional valve is current driven, I suggest you read this to see what is involved. There is not much to them. Additionally whoever made the valve should also market a control supply for the valve. That or you may want to contact the manufacturer and ask what they suggest for valve control.
Ron
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