How does an air/oil type landing gear shock strut cushion the initial shock of landing?

An air/oil type landing gear shock strut cushions the initial shock of landing primarily through the fluid dynamics involved in forcing the hydraulic fluid through a metered opening. This process effectively dampens the impact forces that occur during landing.

When the aircraft lands, the strut compresses, and the air and oil inside the strut are displaced. As the volume of fluid reduces, the oil is forced through a precisely sized opening (the metered opening). This flow creates a resistance that slows down the compression of the strut. The controlled movement of the fluid acts as a damping mechanism, absorbing kinetic energy and minimizing the shock transferred to the airframe and the occupants.

This method provides a smooth response to landing impacts and helps keep the aircraft stable upon touchdown. The ability of the strut to manage the rate of fluid flow through the metered opening is crucial in achieving effective shock absorption and ensuring the overall safety and performance of the landing gear system.