Most fluid-power users understand that particulate contamination in hydraulic oil can markedly degrade the performance and life of mobile and industrial machinery. Perhaps less recognized is that water contamination in the oil can similarly lead to component failure. Water, whether dissolved in the oil, present in an emulsion or as free water, … [Read more...] about Portable dryer keeps water out of hydraulic oil
Eliminating a weak-link in hydraulic performance with new hydraulic fluid test
In recent years, operating pressure and power density in many newer hydraulic systems have increased significantly. Not too long ago, pressures in circuits topped out at around 3,000 psi. Now, systems running at 5,000 to 7,000 psi or more aren’t uncommon. On one hand, that can mean better performance, smaller and lighter components and, possibly, … [Read more...] about Eliminating a weak-link in hydraulic performance with new hydraulic fluid test
What is molecular dynamics simulation of hydraulic fluid?
In a recent blog, “A nanoscale view of hydraulic fluids,” we related how researchers at the University of California, Merced and the Milwaukee School of Engineering are working to better understand the fundamentals of hydraulics fluids on the molecular level, and how that might lead to more-efficient fluid-power systems. A key tool in the … [Read more...] about What is molecular dynamics simulation of hydraulic fluid?
A nanoscale view of hydraulic fluids
There’s a growing realization that the type and formulation of hydraulic fluids can have a significant effect on machine efficiency, performance and overall life. But to date, fluid manufacturers have, for the most part, relied on traditional laboratory methods to develop new fluid chemistries. Now, in the project “Simulation, Rheology and … [Read more...] about A nanoscale view of hydraulic fluids
How does a coalescing filter work?
Large contaminants in a pneumatic system are readily captured by general-purpose filters or tend to settle out of a compressed-air stream. Air dryers can effectively remove water from compressed air. But aerosols—extremely small (≥ 0.1 micron) solid particles and liquid droplets of oil and water suspended in the air—remain in the flow stream and … [Read more...] about How does a coalescing filter work?
New line of desiccant dryers
Walker Filtration, based in Washington, Tyne & Wear, U.K. and with U.S. headquarters in Erie, Pa., has expanded its line of Pro Dry compressed-air desiccant dryers. Based on customer feedback and the latest controls technology, the new desiccant dryers cut service time in half, significantly increase energy efficiency, reduce noise and are … [Read more...] about New line of desiccant dryers
Comments from a sealing expert
Sealing expert Joe Woods, Fluid Power Segment Manager Americas for Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, recently visited the offices of Fluid Power World and WTWH Media. We discussed some timely topics concerning the sealing aspects of the fluid-power industry, and on new developments at Trelleborg. Here are some takeaways. Current business … [Read more...] about Comments from a sealing expert
The Goldilocks Principle of compressed-air cleanliness
Most anyone designing, using and maintaining a pneumatic system recognizes that proper filtration is necessary to keep equipment running at peak performance. The question is, what degree of filtration of necessary for a given system? Applying the Goldilocks principle, specifying filters that are too coarse can permit harmful contamination to pass … [Read more...] about The Goldilocks Principle of compressed-air cleanliness
Practical considerations for specifying air filters
Keeping compressed air clean in pneumatic circuits is a must. Using the right filters ensures equipment runs efficiently and helps minimize breakdowns. Neglecting filtration is a recipe for wasting energy, more-frequent component replacement, and higher operating costs. In a recent blog, “How do you select an air filter?” we discussed two … [Read more...] about Practical considerations for specifying air filters
How do you select an air filter?
Air leaving a compressor is hot, dirty, and wet. Left untreated, it can damage products and shorten the life of downstream equipment. In pneumatic systems, contaminated air leads to premature wear in valves and cylinders, attacks seals and causes them to leak, results in rust and corrosion in tools and piping, and is generally the root cause of … [Read more...] about How do you select an air filter?
