What is the standard pressure used in most Navy high-performance aircraft hydraulic systems?

In most Navy high-performance aircraft hydraulic systems, the standard pressure is 3,000 psi. This pressure level is chosen for its ability to provide the necessary force for efficient operation of hydraulic systems, such as landing gear extension and retraction, control surfaces actuation, and other essential functions critical to the aircraft’s performance and safety.

This pressure is effective for balancing the requirements of system weight and performance efficiency, allowing for the integration of smaller hydraulic components while still maintaining adequate performance. Higher pressures, such as 4,000 or 5,000 psi, would lead to increased system complexity and weight due to the need for more robust components, which can be detrimental in aviation applications where weight conservation is paramount. Likewise, lower pressures may not meet the operational demands of high-performance maneuvers, making 3,000 psi a pragmatic standard for Navy aircraft.