Hydraulic accumulators store energy, enhance the performance of fluid-power systems and provide for emergency backup functions. An accumulator consists of a separation element (bladder, piston or diaphragm) that divides gas and fluid sections. The energy storage capacity is directly affected by the precharge pressure of nitrogen gas inside an accumulator. In a presentation at IFK […]
Ultra-large excavator has high-efficiency hydraulics
Hitachi Construction Machinery plans to add the EX2000-7 ultra-large hydraulic excavator to its line of mining machinery. The redesigned unit, slated for introduction next year, is based on the current EX1900-6. The model reportedly will feature an entirely new hydraulic circuit that reduces fuel consumption by up to 19% with no loss in productivity. Powered […]
A brief history of math modeling in hydraulics
Many fluid-power engineers take for granted today’s technically sophisticated devices like servovalves, high-efficiency pumps and electronic controls. But do you ever wonder the genesis and history behind such developments? Jack L. Johnson, CEO and V.P. of R&D with IDAS Engineering, a U.S. delegate to ISO TC 131 (the ISO technical committee on fluid power) and…
What are ionic hydraulic fluids?
Hydraulic development engineers and tribology specialists still expend substantial time, effort and resources in the search for an ideal hydraulic fluid. Novel Ionic Liquids may offer the solution. In a presentation at IFK 2020 titled “Basic aspects when using ionic liquids as a hydraulic fluid,” authors Darko Lovrec and Vito Tič of the University of […]
The election’s impact on fluid power
Of all the issues surrounding this year’s presidential election, fluid power is decidedly not at the top of list. Nonetheless, the outcome could have a long-term effect on the industry’s success. From onshoring to research to workforce skills, here’s where the candidates stand on several key issues. Manufacturing. President Trump’s second-term platform embraces the goals:…
Mobile machines from cloud to earth
At this week’s International Fluid Power (IFK) conference, Prof. Jürgen Weber, head of the Institute of Mechatronic Engineering at Technical University Dresden, offered an ambitious and optimistic view of the industry’s future, along with the challenges. In his keynote presentation, “Digital Mobile Machines — From Cloud to Earth,” he predicts what lies ahead for mobile […]
An ideal opportunity to attend IFK
The International Fluid Power Conference (IFK) is widely considered one of the world’s pre-eminent meetings for engineers, academics and researchers. Held every two years in Germany, IFK focuses on new innovations and industry trends involving hydraulics, pneumatics and motion control technology. It also delves into timely related subjects like additive manufacturing, IIoT, artificial intelligence and…
EU opens investigation into acquisition of Eaton Hydraulics by Danfoss
The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation to assess the proposed acquisition of Eaton’s hydraulics business by Danfoss. In a statement Monday, the Commission said it is concerned that the proposed acquisition may reduce competition in the supply of certain hydraulic components for mobile machinery. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy,…
Where and when to use environmentally acceptable fluids
In September’s first installment of the Fluid Power Technology 2020 Virtual Series, Brandon Richards, CEO of PANOLIN America Inc. presented “Where and when should you use environmentally acceptable fluids?” He provided an overview of the types EALs available in the marketplace and benefits of these fluids over mineral-based lubricants. Here are some highlights. To truly […]
Excavator pipe-rupture valve has flat design
Bucher Hydraulics has introduced the newly designed excavator pipe-rupture valve CFS-EF, or “CFS-Flat.” Reportedly an innovative extension of the company’s family of CFS pipe-rupture valves, the new version is based on proven technology and, with a flat design, allows for ready installation on lift cylinders without a sandwich plate. Bucher developed the series CFS (Compact […]
Modular valve system embodies design flexibility
The modular valve system RPEK1-03/B from ARGO-HYTOS, Baar, Switzerland, is a flexible system suited for a wide range of applications in mobile and stationary machinery. The RPEK1-03 (size 03) sectional directional valve, with a maximum flow of 20 l/min (5.3 gpm) per section is the basic component of the assembly. Thanks to a large number […]
New modular air-prep filters
SMC Corp. of America, Noblesville, Ind. has expanded its family of compressed air preparation filters. The AFF/AM/AMD Series filter line features additional sizes, as well as units that are smaller, lighter and more efficient than previous versions. The extended product offerings include AFF Series line filters, AM Series Mist Separators, and AMD Series Micro Mist […]
The democratization of IoT
Most advocates for fluid power technology are well aware of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), where factory floor and mobile equipment are fitted with sensors, connected to wireless networks and send vast volumes of data to the cloud. Analyzing the data in real time gives manufacturers a better idea of how their production lines […]
2-in-1 filter offers cold-start performance
The new “2in1” suction-return filter from ARGO-HYTOS is reportedly an innovative, combined system designed to economically handle cold-start situations. In tractors and other mobile machines with a mixed-response, common oil circuit for transmission and power hydraulics, a suction filter is usually used to protect the pump, while a return filter ensures proper oil cleanliness. In […]
U.S. Navy wakes up, revisits hydraulics
In a push toward everything “cutting edge” and “high-tech,” the U.S. Navy in recent years has gone overboard — no pun intended — with the wholesale replacement of proven hydraulic-powered systems with untested electric drives. The results in many cases have been dismal. The $13 billion USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier is the most […]
Continental introduces eco-friendly hose
The Continental business unit of ContiTech has introduced a new eco-friendly garden hose called EcoRubber that uses sugar cane ethylene, rather than petroleum-based products, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85%. It is reportedly the first plant-based polymer hose in the world. “Continental is paving the way of a circular economy by consistently evaluating renewable […]
New-generation hydraulics for electrically powered machines
Climate-change mitigation and lower CO2 emissions are keen topics of discussion among construction industry OEMs and manufacturers of mobile machines for agriculture, forestry and mining. Which drive systems will be most suitable in the future to meet the demands for high power density and efficient, economical operation with minimal pollutant emissions? Industry expert Dierk Peitsmeyer, […]
Vacuum plus vision system automates bin picking
Schmalz Inc. has developed a complete system for the complex task of automated parts handling. The Vision and Handling Set 3D-R is a complete solution that includes all accessories for efficient box- and bin-picking with lightweight robots and cobots, and is among the latest innovations from Schmalz, Raleigh, N.C. Compared to conventional handling devices on […]
Hydraulics powers ultra-high pressure firefighting
HMA Fire, based in Fall River, Wisc., develops fire-fighting equipment and systems for a range of on- and off-road vehicles — from custom mini-pumpers and skid units for ATVs to add-on packages for full-size fire vehicles. Its goal is to make fighting fires safer and more efficient by using ultra-high pressure (UHP) technology. The company […]
Flat-plate heat exchangers enable cool, reliable mining
Mining machines and equipment face tough and unforgiving operating conditions, and the hydraulic systems they rely on have to stand up to the abuse and, in some cases, extreme heat. Facing a unique combination of challenges, a mineral-processing OEM approached GS Global Resources, Mukwonago, Wisc., for engineering assistance while designing a massive 3,300-hp rock crusher, […]
Festo advances digital automation and AI in production
The growing pace of technological change, political disputes over trade relations and increasingly dismal prospects for the global economy are putting the manufacturing industry under pressure, according to officials at Festo, Esslingen am Neckar, Germany. The Corona pandemic is a particular challenge, and it clearly shows the importance of digital transformation and Industrie 4.0, they […]
New high-pressure proportional controls
The new Cordis HP500 from Cincinnati-based Clippard uses the company’s proven EV line of electronic valves to allow for steady, repeatable downstream pressure under static conditions. The result is precise, linear pressure control within a closed-loop system with high accuracy and repeatability. The Cordis HP500 uses a microcontroller, integrated pressure sensor, and two Clippard EV […]
Schmalz launches virtual trade show
In person trade shows and conferences are nonstarters at the moment. Thus, Schmalz Inc., Raleigh, N.C. is pursuing a different path to present its new products to a wide range of design engineers and trade professionals. SchmalzEXPO, a virtual vacuum-technology trade show, is underway without any need for masks and social distancing requirements. The J. […]
Bosch Rexroth hosts virtual Factory of the Future
July 13 to 16, Bosch Rexroth will host a free 4-day virtual event that explores the Factory of the Future. According to company officials, the event will let visitors learn about the new world of versatile, customer-orientated manufacturing that’s based on greater intelligence, flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Once registered, participants can join as many sessions as…
East versus West in the mobile equipment battle
Are Asian manufacturers primed to be the new global superpowers of the industry? Callum Sarsfield, a founding partner at industrial and energy consulting firm Pullmann Global, recently talked with Alan Berger about the global battle for market share and innovation in the construction equipment industry. Mr. Berger was the senior VP of technology at Volvo […]