Many systems today rely on hydraulics to perform a variety of tasks. Unlike mechanical systems that require solid components to drive other components, hydraulics relies on fluids and the energy they generate.
What is so special about hydraulics, especially since mechanical, electrical and pneumatic systems can achieve more or less the same results? The answer lies in the strength of the fluids and how they can turn a relatively weak pump or similar component into a pump that produces a force many times the original amount.
Advantages of hydraulic system
Liquids flow smoothly and this feature applies to both systems and machines. The force generated by the hydraulics results in extremely smooth motion, which is invaluable in applications where sudden movement is intolerable.
The second feature of such a system is its carrying capacity. Unlike pneumatic systems that rely on compressed gases, hydraulics can support much heavier loads because they are incompressible. This also makes it smooth, which pneumatic systems cannot achieve, because the air pressure changes as the cylinder moves and the load changes. In addition, the force required to produce the same force generated by the hydraulic system is much greater. This can lead to higher costs as larger and more powerful components cost more.
In terms of energy, hydraulics consume much less than others such as pneumatic systems. Heat loss is also lower, which means less energy is used to generate the required electricity. Since such systems are typically used in large-scale applications in conditions such as factories and factories, it becomes important to make compromises without compromising on quality and production volumes. Hydraulics makes this possible by combining all the other advantages mentioned above.
Disadvantages of hydraulics
Where the use of hydraulics has several advantages, there are also disadvantages. This should not be a hindrance, but rather give us an understanding of what to expect.