Function of Accumulator in a Hydraulic system

The Accumulator is an important part of a hydraulic circuit.  It is a cylinder vertically mounted.  The cylinder is filled with air. The cylinder is connected to the hydraulic pipes.   The pressurized oil enters the accumulator and pushes against the air, compressing it.

The function of the accumulator are as follows.

1. It absorbs the fluctuations in pressure which occur when a motor is started and stopped.
2. It provides temporary compensation to losses due to leakages
3. It acts as a short absorber and absorbs pressure changes during operation.