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The primary purpose of a holding valve in a hydraulic system is to maintain the position of a cylinder. This functionality is critical in applications where it is necessary to hold a load in place without requiring continuous hydraulic pressure. The holding valve achieves this by locking the hydraulic fluid in the cylinder, preventing any unintended movement. This ensures that the equipment remains stable and secure during operation, thereby enhancing safety and precision.

In contrast, regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid is more associated with control valves that manage the speed and volume of fluid moving through the system. Storing hydraulic fluid for future use pertains to accumulators, which are designed to store energy as hydraulic fluid and release it when needed. Cooling the hydraulic fluid is typically the function of a heat exchanger or cooler designed to manage the temperature of the fluid during operation, ensuring it operates efficiently and does not overheat. Each of these components serves specific purposes, but maintaining cylinder position is the defining role of the holding valve.