Which statement best describes the function of an accumulator in ALRE steam catapult systems?

Which statement best describes the function of an accumulator in ALRE steam catapult systems?

• A. It cools hydraulic fluid
• B. It stores energy to be released later to start the pump
• C. It provides landing gear support
• D. To store hydraulic energy and smooth out pressure fluctuations during launch

Answer: (D)

An accumulator in ALRE steam catapult systems acts as a hydraulic energy buffer. It stores hydraulic energy during moments of lower demand and releases that energy during peak demand to keep pressure and flow steady. This smooths out pressure fluctuations and pulsations during the launch, helping maintain a consistent catapult stroke, reduce shocks, and minimize pump cycling. Inside, a gas precharge (usually nitrogen) compresses as hydraulic fluid fills the accumulator, storing energy that can be called upon to support the system when needed. That combination of energy storage and flow stabilization is why storing hydraulic energy and smoothing pressure fluctuations during launch best describes the accumulator’s function.

An accumulator in ALRE steam catapult systems acts as a hydraulic energy buffer. It stores hydraulic energy during moments of lower demand and releases that energy during peak demand to keep pressure and flow steady. This smooths out pressure fluctuations and pulsations during the launch, helping maintain a consistent catapult stroke, reduce shocks, and minimize pump cycling. Inside, a gas precharge (usually nitrogen) compresses as hydraulic fluid fills the accumulator, storing energy that can be called upon to support the system when needed. That combination of energy storage and flow stabilization is why storing hydraulic energy and smoothing pressure fluctuations during launch best describes the accumulator’s function.