Syllabus: GS3/General Science
Context
- Hydraulic systems convert power into smooth, flexible mechanical movement, making heavy lifting and precision tasks possible.
About the Hydraulic Systems
- Hydraulic systems are essential in modern engineering, enabling powerful and precise movement in various industries.
- They offer advantages such as smooth operation, high power-to-weight ratio, precise control, and efficient heat dissipation.
- Worldwide, hydraulics constitute a $45-50 billion market and is growing steadily.
Working of Hydraulic Systems
- Hydraulic systems use incompressible fluids to transmit force efficiently, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications, based on Pascal’s Law.
- Pascal’s law states that when there is an increase in pressure at any point in a confined fluid, there is an equal increase at every other point in the container.
- Pneumatic systems use compressible fluid, such as air, in their operation.
- Pascal’s law states that when there is an increase in pressure at any point in a confined fluid, there is an equal increase at every other point in the container.
- It allows a small force applied over a small area to generate a much larger force over a larger area.
- They operate by applying pressure to a fluid, which then transmits force evenly in all directions.
- In this system, forces perpendicular everywhere to the surface; force per unit area (pressure) same everywhere.

- Key Components:
- Pumps: Convert mechanical energy into fluid pressure
- Valves: Control the flow and direction of the fluid
- Actuators: Deliver mechanical output, either linear or rotary.
- Pipes and Tanks: Store and transport hydraulic fluid.
- Sensors and Switches: Ensure operational safety and control.
Applications of Hydraulic Systems
- Construction Equipment: Cranes, excavators, and bulldozers rely on hydraulic power for lifting and movement.
- Aviation: Aircraft landing gear and control surfaces use hydraulic mechanisms.
- Manufacturing: Press machines and robotic arms operate using hydraulic force.
- Automotive Industry: Braking systems in vehicles function through hydraulic pressure.
Read this in Hindi: हाइड्रोलिक सिस्टम: कार्यप्रणाली और अनुप्रयोग |
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