Which component removes air from a hydraulic system?

In a hydraulic system, the component responsible for removing air is the air separator. Air can be detrimental to the performance of hydraulic systems because it can lead to reduced efficiency, erratic operation, and even system failure. The air separator actively works to extract air bubbles from the hydraulic fluid, ensuring that the fluid remains in a proper state for optimal operation.

The other components mentioned do not serve this specific purpose. For instance, a pressure gauge is designed to measure the pressure of the hydraulic fluid but cannot remove air from the system. A thermostat regulates temperature but has no role in air removal. Meanwhile, a filter assembly is crucial for removing particulates and contaminants from the fluid but does not specifically address the issue of entrained air. Thus, the air separator is the dedicated component required for maintaining the integrity and performance of the hydraulic system by eliminating air.