The Pros and Cons of Having Hydraulic Systems in Aircraft

Countless aircraft rely on hydraulic systems to carry out a variety of necessary processes, taking advantage of contained fluids under pressure to effectively transmit the power for control and actuation. While a staple of modern design, one may wonder what exactly the advantages are of these systems, as well as if there are any potential drawbacks that should be known. In this blog, we will answer such questions and more, ensuring you are able to obtain a better understanding of hydraulic systems in the context of aviation operations.

While hydraulic systems will often vary based on an aircraft’s size, design, and general needs, most feature the same key components that provide standard functionality. At the heart of the system is a reservoir, which holds fluids that are used for power transfer. To move fluids within a network of pipes and hoses, pumps are used to create pressure. With the use of a pressure relief valve and similar devices, levels within the system can be managed to prevent damage and ensure enough power for a given task. Another notable component is an accumulator, which stores hydraulic fluid under pressure so that responses can be quickly made for any sudden changes in demand. In order to carry out work, the pressure from fluids is converted into mechanical motion by actuators. While this explanation is simplified, it serves to paint a picture of how fluid dynamics can be harnessed for the execution of various mechanical processes.

For an aircraft, the power transfer capabilities of hydraulic systems enable numerous tasks to be carried out efficiently, safely, and dependably. For example, landing gear deployment and retraction heavily benefit from the use of hydraulic pressure and system control, as it guarantees the necessary strength and precision for moving large, heavy equipment in a smooth manner. Brake operation is another key example of hydraulic system use in aircraft, where pressure is used to achieve enough stopping power for a soft landing. Aside from such examples, aircraft hydraulic systems also provide actuation and force for flight control surface adjustment, cargo door operation, steering system functionality, and more.

There are many advantages to using hydraulic power for aircraft, the most notable being the amount of energy they can transfer while being relatively lightweight. For aircraft, weight is always a major consideration during the design stage, as it has a direct effect on how much fuel and power is necessary for maintaining flight. With a high power-to-weight ratio as compared to similar systems, hydraulics optimize operations without adding unnecessary bulk. Furthermore, hydraulic systems are known for being responsive and highly precise, allowing pilots to make quick and accurate adjustments to flight control surfaces and other critical components.

Despite their clear advantages, there are some potential drawbacks or issues that are useful to be aware of when making a purchasing decision. For example, hydraulic systems can be expensive and complex, meaning that lighter aircraft may be more limited in how much implementation is possible. As an example, a large commercial aircraft will often leverage hydraulic power for many of its needs, while a general aviation model may only use pressure for wheel brakes. Additionally, there are also costs associated with the increased maintenance requirements they pose. Nevertheless, these drawbacks are often greatly outweighed by the tremendous benefit that hydraulic power provides for large aircraft and modern systems.

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