What Is a Hydraulic Actuator?
A hydraulic actuator is a mechanical device that uses hydraulics to convert energy into a linear movement. The mechanical energy produced is generally used to lift or press things that require a great deal of energy. Heavy equipment usually relies on several hydraulic actuators to function. A bulldozer, for example, is able to lift several tons of rubble through the actuators found in its lifting arm. Hydraulic fluid is the main source of power in a hydraulic actuator. The movement of the actuator can be controlled by changing the amount of the hydraulic fluid inside it. During the ancient times, people used water as a hydraulic fluid. Innovations in chemical engineering however, created oils specifically designed for this purpose. The basic mechanism for a hydraulic actuator is the conversion of the power of hydraulics. A pressurized hydraulic oil is a fluid that cannot be further compressed. When one end of the hydraulic actuator receives pressure, the hydraulic fluid multiplies that
