aircraft hydraulic system

There are basically three sources of power used to operate and manage a modern aircraft. They are:

- the electrical power

- hydraulic power

- the pneumatic power.

When high force and high speed are required, then the choice is to use the hydraulic power.

Just like in a car, the hydraulic power is used to assist in moving the steering. In an aircraft, the hydraulic power is used to move the flight control which will steer the aircraft. It is also used for move the landing gear and power the brake.

The source of hydraulic power.

The power come from engine driven pumps and electrical pumps. Electrical pumps are normally a back-up

The Control

The control in the cockpit are from the hydraulic panel on the overhead. You can switch off the engine pumps and on/off the electrical pumps.

The control of the flight control is done either by steering columns or the joy-sticks.

The Usage

- Flight controls like flaps,slat or ailerons.

- Landing gear and its braking system.

- the operating of cargo doors.