What does a hydraulic cylinder do in an engineering system?

A hydraulic cylinder is a crucial component in an engineering system as it converts fluid pressure into linear motion. When hydraulic fluid is pumped into the cylinder, the pressure created by the fluid acts on a piston inside the cylinder. This pressure causes the piston to move in a linear direction, enabling various types of machinery and equipment to perform work, such as pushing, pulling, lifting, or lowering loads.

The capacity of a hydraulic cylinder to convert hydraulic energy into mechanical energy is fundamental to many industrial and construction applications, allowing for precise control and significant force application in a compact form. This conversion mechanism is essential for the functionality of hydraulic systems, making it integral to the operation of equipment that relies on hydraulic power, such as excavators, cranes, and presses.