What type of systems do hydraulic and pneumatic systems belong to?

Hydraulic and pneumatic systems are categorized as fluid power systems because they utilize the properties of fluids to transmit power and motion. In hydraulic systems, incompressible fluids, typically oil or water, are used to transmit force through pressurized liquids. Conversely, pneumatic systems rely on compressible gases, usually air, to achieve movement and power output.

The defining characteristic that qualifies both hydraulic and pneumatic systems as fluid power systems is their reliance on fluid dynamics to control and transmit energy, unlike mechanical systems that may rely primarily on solid components and mechanical motion. Electrical systems operate on the principles of electricity and involve components like circuits and signals rather than fluid mechanics. Pneumatic-only systems focus solely on air pressure, while hydraulic systems use liquid; thus, the broader category of fluid power systems encompasses both types.