In hydraulic systems, what is typically used to ensure the system is sealed and to prevent leaks?

In hydraulic systems, seals and gaskets play a critical role in ensuring the integrity of the system by preventing leaks. These components are specifically designed to fill spaces between different parts of the hydraulic machinery, creating a tight seal that holds hydraulic fluid within the system.

Seals are commonly made from materials that can withstand the pressures and temperatures of hydraulic operations, thus ensuring durability and reliability. Gaskets, on the other hand, are often used in applications where two surfaces are joined together, providing a barrier that prevents fluid from escaping. By maintaining a seal, these components help preserve the hydraulic fluid necessary for system operation, protect against contamination, and enhance overall efficiency.

Other options, while essential in their own capacities, do not directly serve the purpose of sealing and preventing leaks. Filters primarily focus on removing any contaminants from the hydraulic fluid; pressure regulators manage the pressure levels within the system; and valves control the flow of fluid, but none of these components are designed specifically for sealing surfaces to prevent leakage like seals and gaskets are.