Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic system

Uses pressurized fluid to transmit power

Hydraulic fluid

Medium that transfers force within system

Reservoir

Stores hydraulic fluid and allows air separation

Pump

Converts mechanical energy into hydraulic pressure

Actuator

Converts hydraulic energy into mechanical motion

Hydraulic cylinder

Provides linear motion using fluid pressure

Hydraulic motor

Converts fluid pressure into rotary motion

Valve

Controls flow direction

Pressure relief valve

Protects system from overpressure

Directional control valve

Routes fluid to desired actuator

Flow control valve

Regulates speed of actuators

Hydraulic hose

Flexible line carrying pressurized fluid

Fittings

Connect hoses and components to prevent leaks

Accumulator

Stores hydraulic energy and dampens pressure spikes

Filter

Removes contaminants from hydraulic fluid

Pressure gauge

Measures system pressure

Cavitation

Formation of air bubbles causing system damage

Hydraulic leak

Loss of fluid due to worn seals or hoses

Heat exchanger

Removes heat from hydraulic fluid

System maintenance

Check leaks