🔍 Key Concepts

• Hydraulic accumulator function in fluid power systems • Difference between a reservoir, relief valve, and accumulator • How energy can be stored in hydraulic systems on a MODU (Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit)

💭 Think About

• Think about which component in a hydraulic system is specifically used to store energy so it can be released later when needed. • Ask yourself: which choice describes a device that holds hydraulic fluid at a ready-to-use pressure, rather than just holding volume or dumping excess pressure? • Consider what part of a hydraulic system would help smooth out pressure fluctuations or provide power briefly if the pump output drops.

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option describes energy storage under pressure, not just storage of fluid volume. • Eliminate any option that sounds more like a safety device that protects against excessive pressure rather than using pressure. • Make sure you can clearly distinguish the role of a reservoir (tank), a pump/replenishing device, and a relief valve from the role of an accumulator.