If the fluid pressure is 800 PSI in a 1/2 inch line supplying an actuating cylinder with a piston area of 10 square inches, what is the force exerted on the piston?

To find the force exerted on the piston, it is essential to use the relationship between pressure, force, and area, which is defined by the formula:

[ \text{Force} = \text{Pressure} \times \text{Area} ]

In this scenario, the pressure is given as 800 PSI (pounds per square inch), and the area of the piston is 10 square inches. By substituting these values into the formula, you calculate the force as follows:

[ \text{Force} = 800 , \text{PSI} \times 10 , \text{in}^2 = 8000 , \text{pounds} ]

This calculation shows that the total force exerted on the piston is 8000 pounds. Understanding this concept is crucial in hydraulics, where force amplification occurs through the use of pressure acting over an area. The higher the area, the greater the force that can be exerted when pressure is applied.