What plays a critical role in preventing contamination in hydraulic systems?

Proper sealing is essential in preventing contamination in hydraulic systems because it ensures that hydraulic fluids remain contained within the system, preventing external contaminants such as dirt, moisture, and dust from entering. The integrity of seals helps maintain the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid, which is crucial for the efficient operation of components like pumps, cylinders, and valves. Contamination can lead to wear and tear on these parts, potentially causing system failures or reducing the overall performance of the hydraulic system.

While regular maintenance, oil viscosity, and temperature regulation are important factors in maintaining hydraulic system function and performance, they do not directly create barriers to external contaminants in the way that proper sealing does. Regular maintenance helps identify and address issues before they become severe, oil viscosity affects fluid flow and lubrication properties, and temperature regulation ensures that the fluid operates within optimal thermal limits, but it is the sealing that is specifically responsible for keeping contaminants out.