What can be used to prevent cavitation in a hydraulic system?

Maintaining adequate fluid levels is crucial in preventing cavitation in a hydraulic system because adequate fluid levels ensure that there is sufficient fluid supply to create the necessary pressure and flow dynamics within the pump. When fluid levels are too low, the pump can draw in air along with the hydraulic fluid, resulting in the formation of vapor bubbles, which is the primary cause of cavitation. By ensuring that fluid is consistently filled to the recommended levels, the risk of introducing air into the system is minimized, thus preventing cavitation and protecting the integrity of the hydraulic components.

The other options, while they may contribute to the overall efficiency and performance of a hydraulic system, do not directly address the prevention of cavitation as effectively. Lowering fluid temperature can help improve density but may not always be practical or feasible in every system. Increasing fluid viscosity can impact flow rates and may not be appropriate for all hydraulic applications. Regularly changing filters is essential for maintaining system cleanliness and performance, but it does not directly impact the prevention of cavitation caused by low fluid levels. Therefore, maintaining adequate fluid levels is the most effective measure to prevent cavitation in a hydraulic system.