Hydraulic Pressure Calculator
Hydraulic systems use Pascal's principle to multiply force: pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions. By using pistons of different areas, a small input force on a small piston creates a large output force on a larger piston. This calculator determines pressure, force multiplication, and piston displacements.
Pascal's principle states that pressure applied to an enclosed fluid is transmitted undiminished throughout the fluid. In a hydraulic system, P = F1/A1 = F2/A2. This means the output force is multiplied by the ratio of piston areas: F2 = F1 × (A2/A1).
The mechanical advantage of a hydraulic system equals the ratio of the output piston area to the input piston area. A system with a 10:1 area ratio multiplies force by 10. However, energy is conserved: the input piston must travel 10 times farther than the output piston moves. This is why hydraulic jacks require many pumps to lift a heavy load a short distance.
Hydraulic systems are used in car brakes, hydraulic presses, construction equipment, aircraft flight controls, and industrial machinery. Their ability to transmit force efficiently through fluid makes them ideal for applications requiring large forces in compact spaces.