Why is pressure ratio important?

The design and physical construction of bladder and diaphragm accumulators have limits on the maximum pressure ratios that they can safely operate in. Exceeding those limits can potentially result in damage to the bladder or diaphragm. The piston accumulator does not have an elastomer membrane that can be subject to damage and thus allows for a higher pressure ratio than bladders or diaphragms. The recommended maximum pressure ratios for each accumulator type are listed below:

• Bladder accumulators – the maximum Pressure Ratio is 4:1
• Diaphragm accumulators – the maximum Pressure Ratio is 8:1 (certain models are 10:1 and others may be 4:1)
• Piston Accumulators - the maximum Pressure Ratio can be ∞:1