What are accumulators primarily used for in hydraulic systems?

• A. Cushions against pressure surges
• B. Store electrical energy
• C. Filter contaminants
• D. Absorb heat

Answer: (A)

Hydraulic accumulators cushion pressure surges and dampen shocks in a hydraulic system. They store energy by using a gas-charged chamber (bladder or piston) that separates the hydraulic fluid from the gas. When a surge or sudden demand occurs, the system pressure compresses the gas, absorbing the extra energy and smoothing out spikes. When pressure drops, the gas expands and pushes fluid back into the circuit, helping maintain steady pressure and reducing pump cycling. This protects components like valves and hoses from shock loads. They’re not meant to store electrical energy, filter contaminants, or absorb heat.