What is the Hydraulic Press Working Principle?

A hydraulic press is a compression device that makes use of an exerted force placed upon a fluid, to create a resulting force according to Pascal's Law. It was actually invented by Joseph Bramah, so is also known as the Bramah Press.

What is Pascal's Law? The Hydraulic Principle explained.

Pascal's Law is a theory which states that the pressure (P) in a confined fluid, caused by a force (F1), over an area (A1), is transmitted undiminished, causing a force (F2), over the area (A2). This law can be applied to magnify a small force by the ratio of the areas to give a larger force – F2 = F1 (A2/A1).

How does a hydraulic press work? Pascal's Law in action

In a hydraulic press, a modest mechanical force (F1) is applied to a small area (A1). As the fluid is moved in one location, it inevitably moves elsewhere within that channel. Then a larger area (A2) generates a magnified mechanical force (F2). The force is transmitted via hydraulic pressure generated by the initial effort, F1.