How Do Hydraulics Work?

by | May 11, 2015 | Technology Featured

Man ThinkingHydraulics is a process that consists of the transportation of liquids from one point to another with the use of extensive force. This process takes place by using a form of narrow pipe or cylinder. The term fluid power is also used to describe hydraulic technologies. Hydraulic engineers play a very important role in design and function of things such as canals, dams and bridges.

Hydraulic Systems

According to Torq/Lite, providers of hydraulic tools, the most basic hydraulic system consists of two pistons connected by a pipe. When force is applied to the first piston, the liquid is transported through the second piston. The pipe that connects the two pistons together can be of any length or shape, as long as it allows the fluid to be transmitted from one piston to the other with the proper amount of force.

According to Torq/Lite (www.torqlite.com), a hydraulic system works at its best when the amount of force or pressure that is applied from the first piston, is properly received by the second piston. If there are bubbles present, this is indicative of a compromised hydraulics system. When air is found anywhere in the system, the impact of the force that is applied from the first piston is not transmitted to the second piston with the same level of force. When this occurs, the system moves or compresses and transports air bubbles (as opposed to fluid) through the system.

The more complex hydraulic systems basically consist of multiple pistons, which allows the pipe to be able to “fork”. This means that the master cylinder can transmit liquid to more than one “slave” cylinder. Additionally, the hydraulic system can also do what is referred to as force manipulation, or division. When this occurs, trading force for distance takes place by changing the size of one piston relative to the other.

Industries That Use Hydraulic Systems

Industries that use hydraulic systems include the oil and gas industry, the elevator installation and repair industry, the aircraft industry. Construction companies that specialize in building bridges, tunnels, roads, dams, airports, buildings, and other projects also use hydraulics regularly. The word “hydraulics” is used in the field of engineering and science as it relates to the mechanics and movement of liquids. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projects that involve hydraulic systems require the skills of qualified civil engineers, among other professionals.

The hydraulic fracturing process, also referred to as fracking, is used to further stimulate the production of wells within the gas and oil industries.  This process has gained more popularity within the last ten years due to the demands of new horizontal drilling and multistage fracking technologies. Fracking has worked to improve access to oil deposits and natural gasses. According to OSHA, this process involves the use of hydraulics that pumps very large amounts of water and sand. This process is required with a high amount of pressure to ensure that the oil and gas flows into the well. Unfortunately, this process has exposed workers to high levels of silica, which according to OSHA is a severe health hazard. Overall the hydraulic process has made significant contributions to this country by allowing many industries to develop, flourish and thrive. Hydraulics is a process that uses a variety of disciplines and consists of the transportation of liquids from one point to another with the use of extensive force.”

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