What step takes fluid viscosity into account during hydraulic system tests?

Warming the hydraulic fluid to operating temperature is essential because fluid viscosity—how thick or thin the fluid is—greatly affects hydraulic system performance. Hydraulic fluids behave differently at various temperatures; typically, their viscosity decreases when warmed. This reduction in viscosity allows for better fluid flow, improved system response, and more accurate performance readings during testing.

When hydraulic fluid is cold, it can be viscous and sluggish, potentially leading to inaccurate test results. By ensuring the fluid reaches its operating temperature, you achieve a state where the fluid can flow as it would during standard operating conditions. This is critical for validating system performance, as it simulates real-world operating scenarios, enabling the technician to observe and assess the system under proper conditions.