Hydraulic accumulator — form of energy stored A hydraulic accumulator is a device used to store which form of energy for later delivery to a hydraulic machine?

Introduction:
Hydraulic systems use accumulators to smooth transients, supply peak demands, and maintain pressure during pump stoppage. Knowing the energy form stored clarifies accumulator function and sizing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Accumulator types: weight-loaded, spring-loaded, and gas-charged (bladder or piston).
• Working fluid is typically oil under pressure.

Concept / Approach:
Accumulators store potential energy of pressurized fluid. In gas-charged accumulators, compressed gas (e.g., nitrogen) provides the elastic element; in weight-loaded designs, potential energy arises from a heavy weight acting on the fluid; in spring-loaded designs, the spring stores elastic energy. In all cases, the usable output is hydraulic pressure/flow supplied later to the circuit.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Power backup and pulsation dampening in presses and machines are achieved by releasing the stored hydraulic energy to maintain pressure and flow.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Strain: generic term; the device delivers pressure/flow, not strain as an output.
• Kinetic: flywheels store kinetic energy; accumulators do not spin.
• Thermal/electrical: unrelated to hydraulic accumulators.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing accumulator storage medium (compressed gas, weight, spring) with the delivered energy form—what the system receives is hydraulic pressure energy.

Final Answer: