Axial piston pumps typically consist of main components such as the cylinder block, distribution plate, pistons, and swashplate. The cylinder block contains multiple pistons arranged axially, meaning the pistons' centerlines are parallel to the drive shaft's axis, hence the name "axial piston pump." However, it differs from reciprocating piston pumps as its pistons not only move reciprocally within the pump cylinder but also rotate relative to the swashplate. The pistons are in contact with the swashplate via a spherical tip. The distribution plate features high and low-pressure crescent-shaped grooves, separated by walls to ensure certain sealing, and they connect to the pump's intake and outlet ports respectively. There is an inclination angle between the swashplate's axis and the cylinder block's axis.

The working principle of an axial piston pump: As the motor drives the drive shaft to rotate, the pump cylinder and the piston rotate together. The piston head remains in contact with the inclined plate at all times. Due to the angle between the inclined plate and the cylinder body, as the cylinder body rotates, the piston moves reciprocally within the pump cylinder. When the piston rotates from 0° to 180°, reaching the position of the upper piston, the volume of the piston cylinder gradually increases, allowing liquid to be drawn into the oil cylinder through the suction port a of the oil distribution plate. Conversely, as the piston rotates from 180° to 360°, the volume of the piston cylinder gradually decreases, causing the liquid in the oil cylinder to be discharged through the outlet of the oil distribution plate. As long as the drive shaft continues to rotate, the pump operates continuously.