What is the purpose of a hydraulic accumulator in a system?

The function of a hydraulic accumulator is to store hydraulic energy for later use. This device acts as a reservoir for hydraulic fluid and enables the system to maintain pressure and supply fluid on demand, notably during peak loads or to compensate for fluctuations in demand. The stored hydraulic energy can be released quickly to assist with tasks such as lifting or moving heavy loads, which maximizes efficiency in hydraulic systems.

While increasing fluid flow, filtering hydraulic fluid, or reducing noise may be functions of other components within a hydraulic system, they do not encompass the primary role of an accumulator. The accumulator's design and purpose are fundamentally centered around energy storage and pressure maintenance, making it crucial for ensuring optimal performance and reliability of hydraulic systems.