Advantages of Using a Hydraulic System in a Dental Chair
One of the biggest advantage ones can expect from using a hydraulic system in conjunction with their dental chair is its simple and easy controls. Hydraulic systems utilize simple control schemes like levers and buttons to operate the machinery.
Easy and Simple
Moving the dental chair into position will be a relatively straightforward process. Starting, stopping, accelerating, and decelerating can all be handled by the hydraulic system in relative ease. The hydraulic system is also well-known for its fluid movement and ability to adapt to a broad range of weight.
Excellent Weight Support
Dental chairs that incorporate this system can also expect consistency when delivering force, no matter the speed it is currently using. Hydraulic systems also utilize fewer moving parts compared to the electromechanical dental chairs. The fewer the moving parts, the easier it is to maintain said system.
Another additional advantage of hydraulic dental chair is that it does not create sparks. So, there is little to no risk of it being a fire hazard.
Disadvantages of Using a Hydraulic System in a Dental Chair
With all its advantages, hydraulic systems also have a couple of drawbacks that we need to point out. One of the most significant downsides of using hydraulics is handling the hydraulic fluids. Hydraulic fluids can leave quite a mess and cleaning it off can take a considerable amount of time and effort. This is doubly true if the hydraulic system stars leaking.
Hydraulic Fluid is Hazardous
While the system itself won’t cause any fire, the hydraulic fluid within may catch fire, it leaks and is exposed to open flame. So, whenever handling hydraulic fluid, make sure that there are no nearby open flames.
Hydraulic Fluid is Not Environment-Friendly
Another essential health precaution when handling hydraulic fluid is that it is a corrosive agent. Hence, being overexposed to hazardous liquid may cause health problems. It is vital to do periodic checkups and maintenance when it comes to hydraulic dental chairs. This is to catch potential issues as early as possible. Having the hydraulic system go through repairs can lead to quite a hefty fee. So, it best to take precautionary steps.
Advantages of Using an Electromechanical System in a Dental Chair
When it comes to electric dental chairs, most of the advantages it offers revolve around convenience and accuracy. Known for its high-performance capabilities, most dental chairs that incorporate electromechanical systems allow for smooth and accurate movement and positioning.
High Precision Control
Electromechanical systems are also highly resilient to temperature variations and can adapt quite quickly to such changes. Providing absolute control is one of the highlights of using electric dental chairs. This allows dentists to promptly adjust and reposition the chair with little margin of error.
Another advantage of this type of system is with its pre-programmable settings. With a push of a button, dentists can automatically adjust the height and position to a pre-programmed profile. Eliminating the need to adjust the dental chair and waste time manually.
Affordable and Low-Maintenance
Generally, most electric dental chair systems are more affordable than its hydraulic counterpart. It will require substantially lower maintenance. You will also don’t have to worry about hydraulic fluid leaks and oil maintenance.
Since this type of system won’t require hazardous fluids, electromechanical dental chairs will also require less downtime during repairs. Electric dental chairs are also pretty capable when it comes to supporting various weight ranges.
Safety Measures
An electromechanical system will usually have safety precautions in place as well. For example, in the event of sudden power loss, the actuators of the electric dental chair will immediately lock in place, preventing accidents.
People also have more freedom when it comes to installing the control cabinet compared to a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system will require control panels to be located as close as possible to the dental chair.
Environment-Friendly
Electrotechnical systems are also considered more environment-friendly as it does not use any hazardous liquids. This also means that you won’t need to worry about the proper disposal of said hazardous materials (hydraulic fluid).
Disadvantages of Using an Electromechanical System in a Dental Chair
With all the advantages that electric dental chairs manufacturer offer, it is not perfect. As with any form of technology, there will always be some downsides that must be addressed.
Overheating Problems
While rare, since this system will use electronic components, overheating is an ever-present issue that looms overhead. Depending on the location it is installed at, the risk of overheating may increase. Having a clinic that provides adequate air-flow or has proper air-condition is highly recommended to ensure that the electro mechanism operates in top form.
Weight Range Support Varies
Load ratings will differ depending on the model. Make sure that you check how much weight the electric dental chair system can support. Most models will provide a good range, but it is best to ensure that the dental chair will be able to support the maximum amount of weight.
It is Susceptible to Electrical Damage
Power surges may or may not affect your electromechanical dental chair; it is pretty much a coin toss in this regard. A surge protector might be recommended to ensure the integrity of the system. If the electric dental chair goes through a massive burst of an electrical surge, it can effectively fry specific components. This may lead to costly repairs if the whole system is affected.
Hydraulic and Electromechanical System Comparisons
Precision VS Force
When it comes to maximum force that can be applied/generated, a hydraulic system is one of the most reliable. That being said, it lacks the precision that electric actuators used in electromechanical dental chairs provide.
On the flip side, an electric dental chair will not be able to match up the force generated by a hydraulic system. But when it comes to precision in control, an electric dental chair is untouchable. This is thanks primarily to the actuators within the mechanism.
Overall, the hydraulic system will usually suffice unless you require optimum control and maneuverability that only an electric dental chair can deliver.
Energy Efficiency
Hydraulic systems maintain constant use of energy but can do so in a stable rate without fluctuating too much. Hydraulic systems incorporate a two-step energy conversion process, which means it is continually exerting energy, even at a low level. Compare this to electric dental chairs which only require power when on the move, then you get an idea which one is more efficient in saving energy. This round goes to the electromechanical dental chair.
Installation
In regards to installation, electric dental chairs are significantly easier to set up. Electrical rewiring can be done within a day if you hire a professional. With a hydraulic system, installation is more complicated as it requires setting up plumbing, pumps, and filters.
Longevity of the Unit
This will be subjective to how often the unit will be used. However, based on average data acquired – an electromechanical dental chair is designed for millions of cycles on every load rating. Hydraulic systems also have substantial numbers in this regard, providing that the unit is well-made and has quality and adequate seal wear. This round is a stalemate, as the overall quality of the unit will be a significant factor when it comes to the chair’s life expectancy.