Which factor is essential for ensuring a hydraulic system operates efficiently?

Ensuring adequate pump capacity is essential for the efficient operation of a hydraulic system because the pump is responsible for generating the necessary hydraulic pressure and flow required for actuating components like cylinders and motors. If the pump capacity is insufficient, the system may not be able to achieve the required pressure or flow rate, which can lead to slow operation, unresponsiveness, and potential system failures.

A pump that has the proper capacity ensures that the hydraulic fluid can be delivered effectively to all parts of the system, supporting the optimal performance of various hydraulic devices. Moreover, this proper capacity helps in maintaining the overall reliability and longevity of the hydraulic system. When selecting a pump, factors such as the system's maximum pressure requirements and the flow needed by actuators must match the pump's specifications to achieve efficient functionality.

In contrast, while aspects like regular fluid changes, ambient temperature, and fluid viscosity can influence performance, they do not directly impact the system's ability to generate necessary flow and pressure in the same fundamental way that pump capacity does.