🔍 Key Concepts

• Hydraulic reservoir design and how fluid is returned to the tank • The effect of turbulence, aeration, and heat on hydraulic fluid near the pump suction • Why hydraulic systems try to keep contaminants and air bubbles away from the pump inlet

💭 Think About

• Think about what the pump needs at its suction: do we want calm, deaerated oil or turbulent, bubbly flow? How does the return line outlet location affect that? • Which option best reduces the chance that returning oil will stir up sediment on the bottom or introduce air into the oil that is about to be drawn back into the pump? • Consider how a properly designed reservoir uses distance and baffling between the return and suction to condition the oil before it goes to the pump.

✅ Before You Answer

• Check which option keeps return flow from directly disturbing the pump suction area in the reservoir. • Verify which design helps fluid settle and release air before reaching the suction line. • Eliminate any option that would increase turbulence or contamination right at the pump suction.