Hidraulike

Hidraulike, or hydraulics, is the field of science and engineering that studies the behavior of liquids under pressure and their use to transmit and control power. It relies on the properties of fluids, especially incompressibility, to convert small forces into larger ones and to move mechanical work through liquid-pressure networks.

Principles: Pascal's law states that pressure in a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished, enabling force multiplication when a liquid moves from a small to a large area. Bernoulli's principle and energy conservation describe fluid flow in pipes, while viscosity and turbulence cause losses that must be managed in design.

Systems use pumps to pressurize the fluid, reservoirs to store it, and valves to direct flow. Actuators convert hydraulic energy into linear motion (cylinders) or rotary motion (hydraulic motors). Common fluids include mineral oil-based oils, water-glycol mixes, and fire-resistant esters. Lines consist of pipes and flexible hoses; filters protect against contaminants; accumulators provide energy storage and damping.

Control schemes include open-loop and closed-loop configurations; fixed- and variable-displacement pumps; directional control valves, pressure relief valves, and flow-control valves. Applications span industrial machinery, machine tools, construction equipment (excavators, loaders), braking and steering systems in road and rail vehicles, aircraft flight control, presses, and injection-molding plants.

Historically, hydraulic principles were studied by Blaise Pascal and later realized in devices such as the hydraulic press by Joseph Bramah in the 18th century. Modern hydraulics continues to emphasize reliability, safety, and environmental protection, with standards and best practices addressing leak prevention, fire safety, and fluid compatibility.