hydrostatic locks

Noun

hydrostatic lock (countable and uncountable, plural hydrostatic locks)

1. (uncountable, usually) A condition that arises when a device which compresses gases seizes up because of the infiltration of liquid, which prevents further compression.
   • When hydrostatic lock is suspected or exists, stop cranking immediately and notify unit maintenance.1992, US Department of the Army, Operator's Manual: Armored Reconnaissance/airborne Assault Vehicle, Full-Tracked 152-mm Gun/Launcher
2. (countable) A lock for raising and lowering boats on a canal or waterway that operates by using pressurized water to flood or drain the level inside the lock.
   • After an empty boat has been once weighed, she is numbered, and her weight is registered at the several hydrostatic locks.1830, Theodore Dwight, Henry Dilworth Gilpin, The northern traveller, and Northern tour
3. (countable) A locking mechanism that uses hydrostatic pressure in order to achieve a seal.
   • The different systems are :—The set screw, lead rivet, padlock, pneumatic lock, magnetic lock, cryptograph lock, and hydrostatic lock.1894, William Williamson, Mining Notes and Formulæ for Students Preparing for the Colliery Manager's And Science and Art Department Examinations

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