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Exploring Engineering Through Hydraulics

  • KS
  • Apr 13, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 7, 2025

In our recent workshop, we had the opportunity to share our knowledge of hydraulics with participants. The session introduced them to basic hydraulic principles and how they are applied in real-life engineering. Participants each built a functional hydraulic arm using syringes, tubing and wood, gaining hands-on experience with the relationship between water pressure and mechanical movement. It was super satisfying to see their creation come to life and move with the push of a syringe!


So, what are hydraulics?


Hydraulics is about fluid power and involves the use of liquids to create force and make things move. Because liquids, like water or oil, cannot be compressed, applying pressure to them inside a closed system allows that pressure to be transferred and used to move or lift objects. This hands-on project demonstrated Pascal’s Law in action. The law states that pressure applied to a confined fluid exerts a force transmitted equally through the liquid in all directions. Thus, since pressure is defined as force/area, a small force over a small area can result in a larger force produced over a larger area. This demonstrates how a small force can be easily amplified into a large one through hydraulics.


Hydraulic systems are everywhere, powering a wide range of industries, from airplanes to theme parks. From the moment you press your car’s brake pedal to the thrill of a rollercoaster drop, hydraulics are at work. They can be found within robotic arms used in manufacturing, elevators with lifting platforms, and even precise control systems in aircraft.


The participants were excited to see how the concepts they learned could be found all around them in real life.


Hydraulics in Airplanes – Braking systems


Hydraulic systems play a critical role in airplane braking systems, especially during landing when planes need to slow down quickly and safely. When a pilot applies the brakes in the cockpit, hydraulic fluid is pressurised and pushed through a network of tubes to activate the brake mechanisms on the wheels. This pressurised fluid creates a strong force that clamps the brake pads onto the wheels, helping the aircraft slow down or come to a complete stop.

Hydraulic systems are ideal for this task because they can deliver a large amount of force with great precision, ensuring the brakes respond quickly and evenly. This reliability makes air travel safer and more efficient.


Hydraulics in Manufacturing – The Hydraulic Press


One common example of hydraulics in manufacturing is the hydraulic press. It’s a powerful machine that uses hydraulic force to shape, bend, or press materials like metal and plastic. When hydraulic fluid is pumped into a cylinder, it creates pressure that pushes a large piston down with a lot of force. This pressure can be used to stamp car parts, mould plastic items, or even crush materials for recycling.


Hydraulic presses are essential in factories because they can apply a lot of force smoothly and precisely, perfect for mass production!



Hydraulics in Theme Parks – Ride Control Systems


Hydraulics are often used in theme parks to power and control large rides. For example, hydraulic systems help move parts of roller coasters, drop towers, and motion simulators. Their key advantage is providing incredibly strong, yet smooth and precise movements. This makes them ideal for safely lifting, lowering, tilting or spinning massive components with control.


Thanks to hydraulics, these rides can create exciting and controlled movements that give guests a thrilling experience while keeping everything stable and secure behind the scenes.


Explore More


If you're interested in designing and making hydraulic models, you don't need any fancy equipment or expensive materials. You can create your own projects using simple items found around the house or at a local craft store. Common materials you'll need include syringes, plastic tubing, a shoebox or cardboard for the frame, a craft knife, scissors and masking tape. It's also helpful to have paper and a pencil to sketch out your design before you start building.


Resources - Books


  • Cool Science: Hydraulics by Connie Jankowski

    – A kid-friendly introduction to how hydraulics work, with real-world examples and clear explanations.

  • Make: Engineering for Kids by Liz Lee Heinecke

    – Includes fun DIY projects, including simple hydraulic systems, perfect for hands-on learners.

  • Exploring Simple Machines: With 25 Great Projects by Anita Yasuda

    – Covers a range of mechanical concepts including hydraulics, with activities to try at home or in the classroom.


Resources - Websites












 
 
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