Which design feature helps ensure safety in hydraulic systems?

Pressure relief valves are a crucial safety feature in hydraulic systems as they prevent excessive pressure build-up that could lead to system failure or explosions. These valves are designed to open at a predetermined pressure level, allowing hydraulic fluid to escape and reducing pressure within the system to a safe level. This is especially important in high-pressure applications, where the risk of catastrophic failure can pose significant dangers to personnel and equipment.

Implementing pressure relief valves enhances the integrity and reliability of hydraulic systems, ensuring that they can operate within safe limits even under varying load conditions. This safety mechanism acts as a fail-safe, capable of protecting the entire hydraulic system from pressure surges that can occur due to sudden changes in operation or malfunction of other system components.