A Spotlight on Aircraft Hydraulic Systems

Among the various systems that contribute to an aircraft's functionality, the hydraulic system stands out as critical, underpinning the operation of numerous essential components like landing gear, flight control surfaces, and braking systems. In this blog, we will take a peek into the world of hydraulic systems, providing valuable insight into their use in aircraft.

Essentially, hydraulics is a form of technology that uses fluid pressure to transmit power. The basic principle involves applying force to an incompressible fluid–typically oil–in a confined space, which creates pressure that can be transferred to another area and used to perform various tasks. As a result, hydraulics offers a powerful and efficient means of controlling and actuating various systems across industries.

One of the standout features of hydraulic systems is their precise control, which is vital for the smooth and accurate execution of various aircraft functions. In aircraft, hydraulic systems are used in tandem with components like actuators to translate the pressure into mechanical force for brakes, landing gear, and control surfaces such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders. The meticulous operation of control surfaces is crucial to maintaining stability and maneuverability during flight, while the extension and retraction of landing gear enable safe takeoffs and landings. Moreover, reliable braking systems are necessary for safely bringing the aircraft to a stop upon landing. All of these essential functions are orchestrated by the power and control hydraulics offer.

Notably, hydraulic systems can generate substantial force while utilizing relatively small components, making them ideal for the space-constrained environments found in aircraft. This efficiency in size and power is crucial, as every inch and ounce saved on an aircraft contributes to better performance and fuel efficiency. Moreover, hydraulic systems are renowned for their reliability, an essential attribute given the rigorous and often extreme conditions under which aircraft operate. Whether it is the freezing temperatures at high altitudes or the intense heat during takeoff and landing, hydraulic systems must function flawlessly to employ other key components.

The inner workings of an aircraft hydraulic system involves several key components. The most crucial part is the hydraulic pump, which generates the necessary pressure to move the fluid through the system. Hydraulic fluid is drawn from a reservoir into the pump, where it is pressurized and sent through a network of hydraulic lines. The valves control the flow and direction of the hydraulic fluid, funneling it to the appropriate actuators and control surfaces.

Additionally, filters are used to remove contaminants from the fluid that could hinder performance.

Aircraft hydraulic systems come in various types, each being designed to meet specific operational needs. The most common types include open-center, closed-center, and power transfer unit systems. Open-center systems use a continuous flow of hydraulic fluid to maintain pressure, allowing for immediate response to control inputs. Closed-center systems, on the other hand, maintain pressure without a continuous flow, which can be more efficient and reduce wear on components. Meanwhile, power transfer unit systems are used in larger aircraft to transfer hydraulic power between different systems, providing redundancy and reliability.

Ensuring the reliability of hydraulic systems involves consistent inspections and servicing to prevent potential failures, which are particularly important to avoid in aircraft. General maintenance tasks include checking for leaks, replacing worn or damaged components, and verifying that the hydraulic fluid is clean and free of contaminants. Hydraulic system kits play a crucial role in facilitating repairs, providing all necessary components and tools like pumps, valves, actuators, filters, and more for maintenance personnel to address various issues promptly.

In conclusion, the widespread use of hydraulic systems in aircraft is a testament to their ability to provide high power density, reliability, and precise control for critical applications. For all the aircraft components you need to keep operations running smoothly, you can always rely on Aero Logistic Support. We are committed to offering our customers competitive pricing and rapid lead times on our inventory of over 2 billion diverse products, and we are even able to discuss expedited shipping options for those facing AOG requirements and other pressing constraints. Bearing this in mind, browse our various catalogs at your leisure, or if you know exactly what you need, take advantage of our search engine and filters. Once you find any items of interest, you may utilize our online RFQ forms to request quotes for your comparisons, our staff promising a tailored response within 15 minutes of reviewing a submission. If you would like to learn more about our services, products, or commitments, get in touch with us at any time!