By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor “Sensor” is an interesting word as it applies to industrial machinery and electronics, especially when we personify what it means to be sensing something. We can sense our environment through one of our various sensory systems, and if you ask some, sensory systems exist outside the realm of traditional science.…
Static versus dynamic seals in fluid power
Let’s square off in a squared circle to discuss why dynamic seals are never square. I suppose one could manufacture a square seal, but perhaps that would be more of a gasket. Either way, we’re pitting static seals against dynamic seals to see who comes out on top, and you may find yourself surprised by […]
Fluid power at sea
Learn how hydraulics are used in maritime vessels and why hydraulics is the technology of choice. By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulics have played a vital role in various industries, and the marine sector is no exception. From small pleasure boats to large ocean liners, hydraulics are extensively used in a wide range of marine applications […]
When should you use reusable hose fittings?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hose fittings, also known as hose ends, are critical components of hydraulic systems as they connect hoses to the system’s various fluid ports at the pumps, valves and actuators. There are two primary styles for hose end fittings: permanent crimped-on and field-serviceable screw-on, also known as reusable hose ends. This […]
Understanding air flow and FRLs
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Pneumatic systems are widely used within industrial environments to power machinery and equipment, providing reliable and efficient performance. The Filter-Regulator-Lubricator (FRL) is vital in maintaining optimal air quality and pressure within these systems. However, when selecting an FRL, one must not overlook the significance of understanding FRL air flow characteristics, […]
What hydraulic pumps are best for electrified systems?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Before I begin, let me preface this article with my definition of “electrified.” It’s rarer to find a hydraulic machine with no electrical or electronic components, so electrified might be redundant. In this case, I’m discussing the motion control and automation side of hydraulics, where the electric more is more […]
Stop making these beginner hydraulic mistakes
If I could time travel back to my early 20s to my job at the car wash, I’d get a kick out of my awe regarding the little hydraulic motor that could pull a track loaded with twelve cars so easily and smoothly through the wash. I was so clueless about hydraulics that I once…
Follow these 9 tips to prevent pneumatic hose leaks
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Air hoses are vital for many pneumatics-heavy industries, serving as lifelines transporting air to power machinery and tools. However, leakage is a common and frustrating issue that often arises in many pneumatic distribution systems. Leaks hinder efficiency and lead to unnecessary energy wastage and increased operational costs. Thankfully, preventing pneumatic […]
Rid your packaging lines of UKTs (Unnecessary Knob Twisters)
Follow these five steps to prevent tampering and ensure effective and correct process adjustments for pneumatic components. Steve Bain, Industry Segment Manager – Food and Beverage, Festo North America In modern automation systems, the need for frequent process adjustments poses the risk of unwanted device tampering, often referred to in exasperation by plant managers as Unnecessary […]
Utilities equipment jumps on the latest trends in fluid power
From mobile electrification to telematics and IoT, modern utilities equipment is becoming more controllable and smarter for efficient and reliable designs. By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor The most conspicuous trend in the utility equipment industry — as with most mobile machinery — is electrification. Electrification of mobile machinery previously referenced electric control through solenoid or […]
How can you spot wasted compressed air?
In a noisy industrial expensive plant, air leaks are everywhere, but hard to detect because the ambient roar washes out the sound of air leaving your system. But strange as it may seem, sometimes you can see compressed air leaks, or more accurately, you can see the result of the air escaping! Fig. 1 […]
Why is impulse testing important for hose assemblies?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulic hoses are critical components of any hydraulic system, and their lifespan is essential for its efficiency and longevity. Several factors impact hydraulic hose life, from environmental conditions to maintenance practices, and if you heed the impulse testing tips below, you can enjoy long life from your machine’s hydraulic hoses. […]
A review of hydraulic fittings and flanges
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Improper selection or improper use of hoses, tubing, fittings, and assemblies can result in machine failures, leaks, personal injury, or even property damage if the failure is catastrophic. Understanding your plumbing standard chosen for your hydraulic system, and following the generally accepted installation standards reduces the chance of failure and […]
The importance of hydraulic reservoir filtration systems
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor If you’ve ever been (un)lucky enough to open up a 30-year-old hydraulic reservoir, you know how shockingly grimy they can be. I’ve seen 3 in. of sludge, filings and particles sedimentate enough to clog the suction filter. That hydraulic power unit had a return filter in addition to its clearly […]
What type of miniature pneumatics technologies are available?
In the realm of fluid power engineering and manufacturing, innovation knows no bounds. The advent of miniature pneumatics has ushered in a new era of precision and efficiency, enabling a wide range of industries to benefit from compact and surprisingly powerful pneumatic systems. These miniaturized marvels have found their way into various sectors, using low […]
Why is compressor lubricant important?
The lubricated screw air compressors are the most common type in the industrial environment, helping power critical operations in various sectors. Maintaining the quality of your compressor lubricant is very important if you want trouble-free operation. Let’s examine the significance of maintaining high lubricant quality for a lubricated screw air compressor — and its overall […]
How do you select the right hydraulic motor for your application?
Hydraulic motors are rotary actuators that convert hydraulic energy into mechanical torque. Using the pressure and flow provided by the hydraulic pump, hydraulic motors rotate to pull, drive or winch external loads on various hydraulic machines spanning construction equipment to food mixers. The three most common constructions of hydraulic motors are the gear, vane and […]
What are hydraulic couplers?
Hydraulic quick couplers are indispensable tools in various industries that rely on hydraulic systems. They play a crucial role in connecting and disconnecting hydraulic hoses and attachments swiftly and efficiently. These couplers provide a secure and leak-free connection, allowing for seamless fluid transfer in hydraulic systems. Typically made of durable materials like steel or brass, […]
How do you select hydraulic motors?
Hydraulic motors are rotary actuators that convert hydraulic energy into mechanical torque. Using the pressure and flow provided by the hydraulic pump, hydraulic motors rotate to pull, drive or winch external loads on various hydraulic machines spanning construction equipment to food mixers. The three most common constructions of hydraulic motors are the gear, vane and…
An overview of hydraulic technologies for beginners
Hydraulic technology has been helping people work for thousands of years in its various forms. Early use of water to power our world saw the discovery of the watermill, using the hydrodynamic properties of water to turn a water wheel. Water-powered technology offers methods to increase our capacity to process anything from flour or paper…
How do you select pneumatic hose and tubing?
Imagine you’re in charge of automating a factory or warehouse. You need to move products quickly and efficiently from one point to another and consider pneumatics as a solution. Pneumatic systems need plumbing, lots of it. The most popular plumbing conduit for air systems is synthetic plastic or rubber tubing or hose. However, with so […]
Do special hydraulic fluids require special filters?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulic systems play a critical role in various industries, powering heavy machinery and equipment with precision and efficiency. The performance and longevity of these systems heavily rely on the cleanliness and quality of the hydraulic fluid. Contamination in hydraulic fluid can cause significant damage to the system, resulting in reduced […]
How to ensure hydraulic fluid cleanliness outside of filtration
Hydraulic fluid cleanliness is crucial for hydraulic systems’ reliable operation and longevity. However, while filtration is critical in keeping hydraulic fluid clean, it is not the only factor that impacts fluid cleanliness. This article will discuss some tips to ensure hydraulic fluid cleanliness aside from the obvious filtration itself. One of the most important steps […]
How can metric fittings provide hydraulic system leak protection?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor We use metric fittings to connect and seal hydraulic valves, pumps or actuators to their respective plumbing in a metric-based circuit. They prevent leaks in hydraulic systems by providing a leak-free seal at the component’s fluid port. There are several types of metric fittings, including compression fittings, flare fittings, bite-type […]
What are the different standards for metric hydraulic fittings?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Several standards for metric hydraulic fittings exist, including DIN 2353, ISO 8434-1, ISO 6149-1, and BS EN ISO 12151-2. Each of these standards has its unique features and specifications, which are essential to know. They ensure that the fittings used in hydraulic systems meet the required standards and are compatible […]