What is used to maintain the flow in hydraulic systems when pressure drops?

In hydraulic systems, an accumulator is crucial for maintaining flow and pressure stability when there are fluctuations or drops in pressure. An accumulator is essentially a component that stores hydraulic energy in the form of pressurized fluid. It typically consists of a chamber divided into two sections by a movable piston or a bladder. One section contains hydraulic fluid, while the other contains an inert gas, such as nitrogen, that is compressed to maintain pressure.

When there is a drop in pressure in the hydraulic system, the accumulator can release stored hydraulic fluid back into the system, effectively compensating for the lost pressure and ensuring a consistent flow. This capability allows hydraulic systems to perform more smoothly, particularly during transient conditions, such as when actuators or pumps start and stop or when there are sudden changes in demand.

Other components listed, such as flow meters, check valves, and reservoirs, have specific roles, but they do not directly provide the function of maintaining pressure and flow in the same way an accumulator does during pressure drops. Flow meters measure the flow rate, check valves prevent backflow, and reservoirs store excess fluid but do not actively compensate for pressure changes.