Author: Jamie Omvig

Manifolds are used extensively in our industry and they provide a very flexible design option to help reduce the number of threaded or flanged connections, save space and weight on a machine and simplify labor and assembly processes. They are typically a custom designed and machined item-tailored to fit the exact application requirements.

One of the most overlooked elements of a new hydraulic system design is the selection of types of fluid connection. Many designers use the “tried and true” options they always have because it is easy and familiar and it works. Pipe thread, JIC, SAE O-Ring and Code 61/62 flange connections are the most common and widely used.

Most of us who work with hydraulic systems on a regular basis are well aware of the critical need for effective, efficient cooling of the hydraulic oil. Maintaining a proper oil temperature is imperative-the consequences of ignoring this factor are dramatic and often catastrophic!

One of the often overlooked elements of hydraulic system design and implementation is the gathering of system diagnostic information. This can help identify any flaws or shortcomings in the system design details and also help to protect the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) from unfounded warranty claims, as well as aiding with predictive maintenance plans and system life expectancy.

So, you bought a new hydraulic system to operate a very important process in your...

As the industry has evolved, electrical control has become more prevalent in hydraulic systems.  Often in hydraulic applications, there is a need to very precisely control the speed, position, motion profile or to synchronize the motion of multiple actuators.  There are now a variety of means to monitor position very precisely in hydraulic cylinders, motors and rotary actuators.