Which statement best describes the role of the hydraulic accumulator?

• A. Maintains constant pressure by compensating surges
• B. Increases system noise
• C. Reduces reservoir capacity
• D. Provides electrical power

Answer: (A)

A hydraulic accumulator acts as a buffer that smooths pressure and flow by storing energy. It has a gas-charged chamber that compresses as fluid pressure rises; when demand surges or flow drops, the stored fluid is released, dampening pressure spikes and reducing pump cycling. This helps keep system pressure more constant. So the role described is maintaining constant pressure by compensating surges. It doesn’t provide electrical power, it doesn’t reduce reservoir capacity, and it also tends to lessen noisy surges rather than increase noise.