The term "cavitation" in hydraulic systems refers to what phenomenon?

Cavitation in hydraulic systems specifically refers to the phenomenon where vapor bubbles form in the fluid due to local pressure drops. When the pressure in a hydraulic system decreases to below the vapor pressure of the fluid, vapor-filled cavities develop. As these vapor bubbles move to areas of higher pressure, they collapse violently, creating shock waves. This can lead to significant damage within pumps and other hydraulic components due to the intense forces generated by the implosion of these bubbles.

Understanding cavitation is essential for the design and operation of hydraulic systems since it can affect performance and reliability. Proper system design and maintenance are paramount to prevent cavitation from occurring, ensuring that pressures within the system remain adequate to avoid the formation of vapor bubbles in the first place.