How does a hydraulic system transmit power?

A hydraulic system transmits power by utilizing fluid under pressure. When a force is applied to a confined fluid, it produces pressure in all directions according to Pascal's principle. This pressure can be harnessed to perform work at a distance, allowing the system to control machinery or perform tasks that would be difficult or impossible using mechanical forces alone.

Hydraulic systems are designed to amplify forces; small input forces can generate large output forces through the use of fluid mechanics. This principle is fundamental in applications such as hydraulic lifts or brakes, where a small action can lead to significant outcomes.

The reliance on fluid under pressure differentiates hydraulic systems from purely mechanical systems, which depend on solid components like levers and gears for power transmission. While mechanical levers have their uses, they do not achieve the same efficiency or power multiplication that a hydraulic system can provide. Additionally, hydraulic systems operate autonomously without the need for constant manual input, making them more efficient for various applications. The use of air combined with fluid is not typical for hydraulic systems, which primarily focus on liquid as the power-transmitting medium.