What best describes the function of hydraulic pumps?

Hydraulic pumps serve an essential role in hydraulic systems by converting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy. This process begins when the pump receives mechanical input, which is typically generated by an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. As the mechanical energy is applied, the pump generates hydraulic pressure by moving hydraulic fluid through the system.

This transformation is crucial because hydraulic energy is what allows various machinery to perform work effectively, such as lifting loads, moving components, or powering tools. The hydraulic fluid, often oil, is pressurized by the pump and transmitted through hoses and valves to execute tasks in hydraulic actuators (like cylinders and motors).

Moreover, while filtering impurities and managing temperature are important aspects of hydraulic system maintenance, they are not primary functions of the pump itself. Filtering is usually performed by separate filtration systems, and temperature control often involves heat exchangers or other cooling methods. Consequently, these other choices represent maintenance considerations rather than the core function of hydraulic pumps, which is fundamentally about energy conversion.