Bulk Modulus for Dummies

Aug. 21, 2015

I was in high school when Vincent Magorien wrote what I consider to be the definitive treatise on bulk modulus. That was way back in 1969. But like gravity, bulk modulus is one of those fundamentals that has not and will not change — except maybe in science fiction.

Alan Hitchcox Blog

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Bulk modulus is a fairly basic concept — the measurement of a fluid's resistance to compression. Hydraulic systems designers usually neglect bulk modulus, or at least consider it negligible. But for high-pressure hydraulic systems (and especially large ones) a fluid's bulk modulus can cause some pretty mysterious things to happen.

What I like best about Vince's article is that it delves into some pretty sophisticated calculations but presents easy-to-understand explanations. So if you have a few minutes and want to gain a greater understanding of bulk modulus, I recommend you read his article, which you can access by clicking here.

Vince also authored a couple articles on The Effects of Air in Hydraulic Systems and How Hydraulic Fluids Generate Air.

Vince has since passed away (May 12, 2006 at the age of 81), but the internet allows us to share his valuable contributions with today's fluid power community, rather than keep them stored away in archives.

About the Author

Alan Hitchcox Blog | Editor in Chief

Alan joined Hydraulics & Pneumatics in 1987 with experience as a technical magazine editor and in industrial sales. He graduated with a BS in engineering technology from Franklin University and has also worked as a mechanic and service coordinator. He has taken technical courses in fluid power and electronic and digital control at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and the University of Wisconsin and has served on numerous industry committees.