What is the purpose of hydraulic fluid in the landing gear system?

The primary purpose of hydraulic fluid in the landing gear system is to transmit force for extending and retracting the landing gear. This hydraulic system operates under pressure, allowing the smooth and efficient movement of the landing gear components. When the pilot activates the landing gear lever, hydraulic fluid is directed into the actuators, which then push or pull the gear into its extended or retracted position.

While lubrication is important for various components in an aircraft, hydraulic fluid itself is not primarily used for this purpose within the landing gear system. The engagement of brakes is managed by a different system that may also use hydraulic principles, but it is not the main role of the landing gear hydraulic fluid. Cooling, while necessary for certain systems in an aircraft, is not a direct function of the hydraulic fluid in the landing gear context; the fluid primarily facilitates mechanical motion rather than temperature management.