Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic System

A system that uses liquid, usually oil or water, to transmit force from one point to another.

Hydraulic Fluid

The liquid used in a hydraulic system to transmit force.

Why Liquids Are Used

Liquids cannot be easily compressed, making them effective for transmitting force and moving heavy objects

Reservoir

The part of a hydraulic system that stores the fluid and allows heat, air, and moisture to be released.

Pump

A component that moves and pressurizes the fluid, converting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.

Valve

A component that controls the direction and flow of hydraulic fluid

Actuator

A component that converts hydraulic fluid power into mechanical movement.

Piston

A moving part that pushes or is pushed by fluid pressure to create movement.

Pascal’s Principle

Pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions.

Pressure

Force applied over a given area.

Hydraulic Energy

Energy transmitted through pressurized hydraulic fluid

Force Multiplication

The ability of a hydraulic system to produce a larger force from a smaller force.

Mechanical Energy

Energy associated with the movement of physical objects.