As infrastructure projects demand higher force output within increasingly constrained spaces (such as the hydraulics used in blade handling, nacelle positioning, and foundation work in offshore wind installations), fluid power systems are being designed to operate at progressively higher pressures. This trend is reflected in the scale of UK infrastructure investment, with total market sector […]
In most hydraulic systems, the hydraulic gear pump usually gets the blame for any inefficiency! In many cases, however, the pump is often doing exactly what it was designed to do. The real energy losses (i.e. the ones quietly inflating your operating costs) typically occur downstream: in pressure drops, restrictive components, poor routing, and small […]
In 2024, the UK fluid power sector was worth an estimated £1.1 billion, with hydraulics accounting for around 80% of the total market. This is a buoyant market, and reflects growth conditions in fluid power around the world. According to Allied Market Research, the global hydraulic cylinder market was valued at (US)$14.07 billion in 2020 […]
Historically, hydraulic systems have used mineral oil-based hydraulic fluid because of its lubricity, energy density, and stable operating characteristics under pressure. However, there are numerous reasons for OEMs to be uncomfortable with hydraulic fluid – not least the risk of environmental toxicity, and the workplace safety implications should a leak occur. These concerns have fuelled […]
Fluid power systems in 2026 are operating under higher cumulative loads. As installed bases expand and equipment utilisation increases, the engineering challenge is shifting from specification to durability management. Recent market research projects fluid power equipment growth of approximately 6.42% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) up to 2035, indicating a decade of global system expansion. […]
The fluid power sector may be built on pressure, flow, and mechanical strength, but its future is likely to be driven as much by efficiency, data assets, and smarter design. As we move into 2026, we look at three emerging trends that reflect where hydraulic design and applications could be heading. Each one contributes to […]
To minimise or avoid unexpected downtime, it’s important to keep hydraulic systems operating at peak performance. ‘Peak performance’ doesn’t mean going hell for leather all of the time, but ensuring that the right processes are in place for all parts of the system to work optimally and smoothly. Not only does this prevent sudden disruptions […]
The intersection of electronic control systems and hydraulic power is increasing the possibilities for applications used on the factory floor, the construction site, and beyond. In principle, electro-hydraulic systems combine the strengths of fluid power and the precise intelligence of electronic systems, yielding the benefits of both technologies.
For a manufacturer trying to make the most of a constrained layout or limited space, there is only one thing better than a hydraulic power unit – a compact power unit. Compact hydraulic power units are a transformative approach to space utilisation that is reshaping the way that many engineers approach the use of fluid power systems in industrial automation and mobile machinery.
