What causes turbulent flow in a hydraulic conductor?

Turbulent flow in a hydraulic conductor is primarily influenced by high fluid velocity. When the fluid velocity increases beyond a certain threshold, it leads to chaotic, eddy-like flow patterns. This is characterized by fluctuations in pressure and velocity, resulting in a more complex flow regime compared to laminar flow, where fluid moves in smooth, parallel layers.

In hydraulic systems, achieving a balance between velocity, pressure, and flow characteristics is crucial for efficient operation. While pressure differential and pressure override can affect the system's overall performance, they primarily influence flow through factors such as volume and direction rather than directly inducing turbulence. High fluid velocity is the dominant factor that promotes turbulence, making it the correct choice. Understanding this concept is essential for millwrights who work with hydraulic systems, as it impacts equipment performance, efficiency, and energy consumption significantly.