Hydraulic Pressure Science Project Idea

Source of the Power of Hydraulic Pressure Science Project Idea

Hydraulic pressure which is used in barbers' chairs, in some kinds of elevators, and in various mechanical operations to produce great pressure, may be considered a form of water power. The following experiment may help us to understand how the great power of hydraulic pressure is obtained.

Hydraulic Pressure Experiment

Fill a bottle with water. Into the mouth of the bottle fit a perforated stopper which must be wired in or fastened by the device represented in the figure. Fit tightly into the opening in the stopper a metal rod. Push down on the metal rod. What happens?

It is evident from this experiment that the force exerted on the inner surface of the bottle is many times the force exerted on the metal rod. This and other experiments show that the pressure on liquid, as water, enclosed in a vessel is transmitted undiminished in every direction and acts with equal force on all surfaces of equal area. This is known as Pascal's principle since it was first announced by Pascal, a Frenchman, in 1653. How the great force exerted by the hydraulic press is gained may be understood by studying the accompanying diagram which shows how a 1 -pound weight may balance a pressure of 100 pounds. In commercial hydraulic presses, oil is generally used instead of water.

By pushing down the small piston, a small amount of oil is forced into the space below the large piston. The force exerted upon the large piston is as many times greater than the force exerted upon the small one as the surface of the large piston is greater than the surface of the small one. A valve prevents the oil from passing out of the cylinder below the large piston.

Because of the great force exerted by the hydraulic press it is used in lifting heavy weights and in operations where great pressure is needed. Heavy machinery and crucibles filled with molten metal may be lifted with ease. Baling of cotton and paper, punching holes in steel plates, making pressed steel and forcing lead through a die in the manufacture of lead pipe are some of the uses made of the enormous force exerted by the hydraulic press.