In its 12-page year-end report, the National Fluid Power Association highlights its accomplishments and high points from 2013, including its three-pronged strategy of focusing on a skilled workforce, matching technological advances, and encompassing all members in its inclusiveness mission. As it moves to develop a skilled workforce, the NFPA highlights its work with the NFPA […]
IFPE holds webinar for exhibitors
IFPE, the fluid power industry’s largest trade show and conference event, is just three short months away. And while many companies and attendees are veterans of this great event, I’m sure there are plenty of newbies that could use a preview of what to expect. That’s why IFPE staff is holding a 30-minute webinar on […]
Fluid power shipments up from last year, but down from last month
The latest data from The National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) indicates that fluid power shipments are continuing to improve over last year but have dropped off from the previous month. The latest data published by the NFPA shows industry shipments of fluid power products for September 2013 increased 4.2% compared to September 2012, and decreased 2.6% compared […]
A call to action on fluid power research funding
Last month, I had a chance to stop in at the University of Minnesota to take a tour of the Center for Compact & Efficient Fluid Power (CCEFP). I have always been one of those individuals that wants to leave work behind when I go on vacation, but I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to […]
Fluid power shipments decreased compared to last year
Each month, the National Fluid Power Association releases data on shipments, per its membership. The latest data, from August 2013, indicates that industry shipments of fluid power products for decreased 8.9% compared to August 2012, and increased 0.3% compared to last month. Mobile hydraulic, industrial hydraulic and pneumatic shipments decreased in August 2013 when compared to August […]
What are Hydraulic Motors?
Hydraulic motors are rotary actuators that convert hydraulic, or fluid energy into mechanical power. They work in tandem with a hydraulic pump, which converts mechanical power into fluid, or hydraulic power. Hydraulic motors provide the force and supply the motion to move an external load. Three common types of hydraulic motors are used most often […]
Highlights from the Eaton Distributor Meeting
There is much to report after a whirlwind visit to Orlando for my third Eaton Distributor Meeting, in which I met with different market leaders for the Hydraulics group, including construction and material handling; alternative energies; industrial hydraulics; and agriculture. I’ll be giving full reports from those markets but I just wanted to give a […]
IFPS issues fluid injection injury safety cards
Having dealt with several fluid power safety advocates over the years, I’ve come to understand the importance of prevention when it comes to injuries in the workplace. I remember watching a safety training video on fluid injection injuries, and there was nothing more horrifying or painful than what that injury looked like. So it comes […]
Construction machinery forecast is uncertain
While most of the general keynote presentations at the International Economic Outlook Conference, sponsored by the National Fluid Power Association were decidedly optimistic, not all the market break-out sessions had the same positive vibe. Although his forecast was not down, David Phillips of the London-based Off-Highway Research consulting firm, said over and over again that […]
Hydraulic engineering becomes art
I stumbled across an article recently about this young man, James Capper, in the U.K., who combines his love of hydraulics and engineering with his art. His movable sculptures use hydraulic cylinders to move throughout his exhibitions. There are no wheels on his devices, just platforms or legs that walk with the power of hydraulics. […]
