What is "compressibility" in relation to hydraulic fluids?

Compressibility in relation to hydraulic fluids refers to the ability of a fluid to decrease in volume when subjected to pressure. When a hydraulic fluid is compressed, its molecules are forced closer together, resulting in a reduction of its volume. This characteristic is crucial in hydraulic systems, as it impacts the system's response to pressure changes and the overall efficiency of fluid movement.

Understanding compressibility is essential for designing hydraulic systems because fluids that are highly compressible can lead to delays in response times and errors in force transmission. Therefore, a hydraulic fluid with low compressibility is typically preferred for stable and reliable operation, ensuring that the hydraulic system performs effectively under varying pressures.