What is the consequence of air being trapped in a hydraulic system?

Air trapped in a hydraulic system leads to reduced system responsiveness because it creates compressible pockets within the hydraulic fluid. When hydraulic fluid is compressed due to the presence of air, the efficiency of the system diminishes because the fluid cannot effectively transmit pressure. This can cause lag or delays in the actuation of hydraulic components, resulting in slower response times when adjustments or movements are required.

In a well-functioning hydraulic system, the hydraulic fluid should be incompressible, allowing for direct and immediate transmission of force. However, the inclusion of air introduces variability in pressure transmission, which can lead to unpredictable performance, increased response time, and the potential for system failure. Therefore, capturing air within the system negatively impacts overall functionality and responsiveness.