New from Webtec is a mid-size hydraulic data logger with a large range of features and functions at an affordable price. With its graphical/numerical touchscreen control and up to 14 channels, users of the HPM5000 can measure, log, and analyze mobile and industrial machinery data in fault finding, preventative maintenance, pre-dispatch inspection, R&D, and test […]
Where are ground compression springs used in hydraulics?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor During everyone’s basic training in fluid power, we talk about “spring-centered” this and “spring-retract” that. Springs are used in nearly every component in hydraulics; valves, pumps and cylinders. So prolific in hydraulic components that it’s clear we’re taking springs for granted. Ground compression springs are used in most pressure valves…
Compressed air fail: Load/unload
In this blog post, we will discuss the third of five industrial compressor capacity control modes. A moderately efficient method of controlling a compressor at part load uses load/unload mode with adequately sized storage receiver capacity. With this mode, a pressure switch, or electronic control, is used to provide load and unload signals to the […]
Compressed air fail: Modulating mode
In this blog post, we will discuss the second of five industrial compressor capacity control modes. The least efficient method of controlling a compressor at part load is using modulating mode by way of pneumatically controlled inlet valve control. With this mode, a pneumatic system detects the compressor discharge pressure and compares it to a […]
VS6 electronic differential pressure sensor is a filter clogging indicator
The Filtration Division of Eaton has launched its new VS6 electronic differential pressure sensor. This advanced clogging indicator continuously measures the differential pressure within hydraulic and lubrication oil filters for users to easily evaluate the status of the filter elements. The VS6 sensor features a dust and splash-proof stainless steel housing and is suitable for […]
Compressed air fail: Start/stop mode
In this blog post, we will discuss the first of five industrial compressor capacity control modes. The simplest method of controlling a compressor is Start/Stop mode using pressure switch control. This control simply turns on the compressor to run at full load when the pressure hits a lower pressure level — and turns off the […]
Hydraulic oil analysis part 6 — what is spectrometry?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor This is part 6 in this series on hydraulic oil analysis, and if you’ve missed any of the previous issues, you can find them here — part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, and part 5. I’ve covered everything from viscosity to water saturation already, and we’re not done […]
Compressed air fail: Variable displacement
There are five different capacity control modes available for use with North American-built large industrial air compressors. It pays to know how each mode works, especially if you operate or service air compressors or happen to have your compressors operating in one of the least efficient modes. The accompanying photograph shows just one design that […]
Optimize air-operated double diaphragm pump with control unit
Ensuring that air-operated double diaphragm pumps run consistently and optimally through long cycles is easy with Proportion-Air’s new Pump Controller. Many AODD pumps operate with just a ball valve and shop air. This can lead to inaccurate, inconsistent material flow. The Pump Controller is a turnkey system that eliminates these issues. Run-dry situations can be […]
Embrace efficiency and innovation for electrified mobile machinery
Learn the advantages and disadvantages of the four phases of electrifying mobile machinery — swapping diesel for batteries, optimizing hydraulics, recuperating energy, and going completely electric and eliminating hydraulics. Mobile machinery power transmission is rapidly evolving, driven by regulatory pressures, growing demands for greener technologies, and reduced operational costs. In this article, we delve into […]
EHBL digital boom control valve from HydraForce reduces energy use
HydraForce launched its patented EHBL Digital Boom Control, a pressure control valve with an electro-proportional relief valve that improves operator productivity and reduces energy consumption. “The HydraForce Digital Boom Control can be part of an ISO 8643 compliant system for hose burst while ensuring smooth operation and conserving energy,” said Brian Del Bene, HydraForce, Cartridge […]
Hydraulic oil analysis part 5 — acidity and its impacts
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor In part 5 of this series covering hydraulic oil analysis, we move on to discuss acidity. As it pertains to hydraulic oil, we need to know the total amount of acidic substances found within the sample. Most commonly referred to as the Total Acid Number, or TAN for short, the […]
Why is your hydraulic cylinder moving slowly?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor If your hydraulic cylinder is moving slowly and you’re reading this article, your cause is not likely a lazy operator. Your situation is obviously one where an expected performance isn’t being met, or there was a sudden and dramatic slowdown of your cylinder velocity. Diagnosing the cause of a cylinder…
Compressed air fail: Air-oil separator failure
A compressed air auditor regularly flow-tested the compressors under his study. This generally would be done if the air compressor was drawing low amps — a telltale sign that the unit is producing low flow output — or if the compressor has excessive hours. Often times, internal wear due to age will reduce output […]
Where and when should you use wire-reinforced hose?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulic hoses come in many sizes and designs, and the expression of each design is a result of the purpose of that hose. Generally, there are three common locations where a hose is used in a hydraulic system: suction lines, working lines and return lines. Each location has its own […]
4 key considerations when choosing electric motors and equipment
Contributed by Enrique Busquets • Director of Engineering Systems and Components, Bosch Rexroth Fueled by unceasing innovation, electric motors have solidified their position as a catalyst for change, reducing countries’ greenhouse gas emissions (ghg) and lowering total cost of ownership for heavy- and medium-duty vehicles and machinery. The accelerated adoption of electric motors has been […]
Bonfiglioli gears up for MinExpo 2024 with mobile solutions
Bonfiglioli is gearing up to showcase its suite of gear units for mining equipment manufacturers at MinExpo 2024, which will take place September 24-26 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The company will demonstrate how its combined expertise in mobile and industrial applications empowers OEMs to build next-generation mining machines. “Modern mining equipment requires a […]
Clippard launches EHS high-pressure electronic valves
The EHS series of high-pressure electronic valves from Clippard is precision-engineered to deliver robust performance in higher pressure (up to 1,000 psig) applications, prioritizing both safe functionality and the reduction of potential leak points. Building upon the foundation set by the ES series, the EHS incorporates key features such as substantial cross sectional O-rings, proven […]
Troubleshooting challenge: Low pressure halts digger derrick truck movement
Contributed by Robert Sheaf, Founder of CFC Industrial Training In this month’s challenge, we go out into the utility world, where digger derrick trucks operate to prepare worksites. Here, a digger derrick truck could not operate any function that required pressure above 50 psi. The pump load sense was set at 300 psi with the…
Why use point-of-use dryers with compressed air systems?
It is common to see the air in a complete plant dried by a desiccant dryer only to service one small end-use that is subject to freezing temperatures. The purge from a large desiccant dryer is much more costly than that of a small point-of-use dryer, which can be placed on the outdoor feed. The […]
Sun Hydraulics’ eSense counterbalance solution for safe load holding
At iVT Expo last week, Sun Hydraulics was highlighting some of its newer technologies, including its eSense counterbalance solution. This load-holding technology allows users to save energy without sacrificing performance. Designated as part of Sun’s ecoline program, this solution adapts to any load and provides up to 85% of energy-efficient power to applications. Combatting the […]
Polyethylene versus nylon tubing — who wins the pressure war?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor In the bustling battlefield of pneumatic systems’ hose and tubing, two contenders stand ready for combat: polyethylene and nylon tubing. Armed with unique strengths and weaknesses, they prepare to face off in the high-pressure war, so let’s dive into this skirmish and see who emerges victorious. Round 1: The Durability […]
New Proportion-Air Supply benchtop testing device saves time
Proportion-Air is expanding its proportional electro-pneumatic pressure and flow control into the testing equipment field with its newest product, the Proportion-Air Supply. This benchtop unit for lab or manufacturing use is designed to regulate compressed air and other gases within prescribed pressure and flow limits for easy use. Suitable for developing, testing, and diagnosing pneumatic […]
Sure Grip Controls customizes armrests for operator comfort
Operator comfort and ergonomics are significant considerations in mobile machine design. Sure Grip Controls, a Bailey International company, has launched new armrests for heavy equipment that are fully customizable, including cushion materials and colors and integrating various components such as joysticks, LEDs, and push buttons. Features include: Can be fully sealed up to IP69K Rated […]
The benefits of unitized sealing products in hydraulic cylinders
Unitized sealing solutions feature over-molding and precision machining to eliminate challenges inherent in standard piston and gland designs. Contributed by Andrew Iddeson, Product Technology Director, Advanced Sealing Technologies and Chuck White, Global Product Development Manager Hydraulic cylinders are a key component in efficiently harnessing the power created by a fluid power system into usable linear […]