What is the primary function of hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic system?

The primary function of hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic system is to create pressure. Hydraulic systems operate based on Pascal's principle, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished in all directions throughout the fluid. This property allows hydraulic systems to amplify force, enabling machinery, such as forklifts, to lift heavy loads with relatively little effort.

While other functions, such as lubrication and temperature control, may also play roles in the system's operation, the central purpose of hydraulic fluid remains the generation and maintenance of pressure necessary for hydraulic actuation. This pressure generation is crucial because it permits the efficient transfer of power through the system, allowing it to perform various tasks effectively.