Build a Simple Hydraulic System with Syringes


How It Works:

The hydraulic system uses

Pascal's Principle

, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions. By pushing one plunger, the pressure forces the other plunger to move, demonstrating how hydraulic systems work in machines like cranes and brakes.

Materials Needed

Age Range:

10-14 years old (younger kids may need assistance with assembly)

  • Two large plastic syringes (without needles, 10-20 mL size works well)

  • Flexible plastic tubing (fits snugly over the syringe tips)

  • Water

  • Tape or glue (optional, to stabilize components)

  • Small cardboard pieces or blocks (to act as a base or structure for the system)

  • Scissors (to cut the tubing, if necessary)

Steps


Stage 1: Prepare the Hydraulic System

Connect the syringes:

Cut a length of the plastic tubing (about 20-30 cm).Attach one end of the tubing to the tip of the first syringe.Attach the other end of the tubing to the second syringe. Ensure the tubing fits tightly on both ends to prevent leaks.

Fill with water:

Remove the plunger from one syringe and fill it halfway with water.Insert the tubing into the water-filled syringe, ensuring no air bubbles remain.Slowly push the water into the tubing by reinserting the plunger.Repeat until the tubing and second syringe are filled with water.



Stage 2: Test the Hydraulic System

Hold the syringes so they are aligned, or mount them on a base using tape or cardboard.

Push the plunger on one syringe. Watch as the water transfers through the tubing and moves the plunger on the other syringe.



Stage 3: Create a Functional System (Optional)

Attach the syringes to a cardboard structure to demonstrate lifting or pushing mechanisms.Example: Use one syringe to lift a small platform or tilt a lever.

Experiment by adjusting the amount of water or tubing length to see how it affects the movement.


Safety Note

Ensure the tubing is secure to prevent water spills.

Use clean water to avoid clogging the system.

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