Hydraulic ram is a machine used to hydraulically pump water uphill. The word is spelled /haɪˈdrɔːlɪk ræm/. The first syllable "hy-" is spelled with a "y" instead of an "i" because it comes from the Greek word "hydraulis," which means water organ. The "ram" part of the word comes from the name of the machine’s main component, which is shaped like a ram's head. The "a" in "ram" is pronounced as "æ" because it comes from the Old English word "ramm," which is pronounced with this sound.
A hydraulic ram is a mechanical device that utilizes the power of water to lift or move heavy objects. It is composed of a vertical pipe or cylinder with two openings and a piston that fits snugly inside. The ram relies on the principles of fluid dynamics to transfer the energy generated by flowing water to accomplish work.
When water is fed into the pump, it enters the first opening, referred to as the intake, and exerts pressure on the piston. This pressure forces the piston to move upward, compressing the air trapped in the cylinder. The water is then diverted to the second opening, known as the delivery, which leads to the desired location where the load needs to be lifted or moved.
As the water flows into the delivery opening, it displaces the compressed air, creating a surge of pressure that propels the piston downward. This power is harnessed to lift heavy objects, such as water tanks or logs, or to provide force for various applications, like pumping water to higher elevations.
The hydraulic ram is an efficient and self-powered device, as it requires no electricity or fuel to operate. Its harnessing of the energy from a renewable source, water, makes it a sustainable choice for rural communities or areas lacking access to electricity. Its simple design and low maintenance needs have made hydraulic rams valuable tools for irrigation, water supply systems, and other applications that require significant force or displacement.
The term "hydraulic ram" has a straightforward etymology. It combines two words: "hydraulic" and "ram".
1. Hydraulic: The word "hydraulic" is derived from the Greek word "hydraulikos", which means "water organ". "Hydraulikos" is a combination of "hydro" (meaning water) and "aulos" (meaning pipe). The term "hydraulic" is associated with the science and technology of fluids in motion.
2. Ram: In this context, "ram" refers to a device that uses force to move or press something. This usage comes from the Old English word "ramm", which meant a heavy object used for battering or driving into or against something.
When combined, "hydraulic ram" refers to a device that utilizes the power of water (hydraulics) to generate forceful movement or impact, much like a ramming action.