What does the hydraulic fuse primarily ensure in an aircraft hydraulic system?

The hydraulic fuse plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and safety of an aircraft's hydraulic system. Its primary function is to prevent catastrophic failure by stopping fluid flow in the event of a significant leak within the hydraulic system. If a leak were to occur, the hydraulic fuse would detect the loss of pressure and automatically close off the affected section of the system. This function is essential because it helps maintain the pressure and functionality of other components within the hydraulic system, thus preventing a complete failure that could jeopardize the aircraft's operations and safety.

The other functions of the system, such as providing an uninterrupted power supply, ensuring continuous fluid flow, or improving maneuverability, are not the primary responsibilities of the hydraulic fuse. The fuse is specifically designed to address safety and failure prevention, which is why its role is crucial in avoiding potentially disastrous situations during flight.