History of Hydraulics
Hydraulic systems use pressurized fluid to create power. This type of power is often seen in heavy machinery and industrial systems because it creates such impressive power. Where did it all begin? Hydraulics have an impressive history dating back to ancient societies.
A Short History of Hydraulics
Hydraulic power has roots as far back as the 6000s BC. With such ancient origins, it’s hard to say who invented the hydraulic system. Both ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians used water power for crop irrigation. These inventions qualify as hydraulics because the systems were designed to let the water flow away from rivers into fields on its own.
By around the 600s BC, the ancient Greeks invented impressive networks of aqueducts that used a more sophisticated hydraulic system to deliver water to crops. The Tunnel of Eupalinos in Greece is among the more well-known aqueducts. The Silk Road also had an early hydraulic system. Both of these networks used gravity to move water through the systems and featured advancements like drainage basins and valve towers.
By the 100s, the aeolipile becomes the first hydraulic steam engine in Alexandria. Over time, more hydraulic fluid inventions joined the ranks, including the first music sequencer — a water-powered flute player — and a water-powered programmable robot.
In the 17th century, our concept of hydraulics morphed when Simon Stevin discovered the hydrostatic paradox and Galileo uncovered more about gravity. Blaise Pascal also created his law in 1648 that determined if pressure is applied to a fluid inside a closed system, the pressure equally transmits in all directions. Over a century later, Joseph Bramah invented the first hydraulic press.
Inventions in the 19th century led to further developments in our understanding of hydraulics. William George Armstrong developed the first rotary engine and the California Gold Rush brought about the use of hydraulic mining.
By the 20th century, hydraulics were more sophisticated and adaptable than they’d ever been. With small tubing and flexible hoses, hydraulics became the preferred power of choice for industrial machines and vehicles. Thanks to the many inventions and discoveries from people before us, hydraulics have become an integral part of our modern lives.
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Hydraulic systems are everywhere, and they’re critical to a wide range of operations. When your hydraulics system doesn’t work as it should, your company needs a reliable repair team to handle the job. Contact us today to get your hydraulic systems up and running.
