The hydraulics industry is constantly experiencing transformation with new technological advances designed to meet a growing demand for an increase in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The global hydraulic market is expected to reach $54.1 billion by 2028, with the largest market being North America. There’s no doubt that advancements in technology are contributing to this ever-growing market.
Here are just some of the latest hydraulic trends being used in a variety of applications.
Components are becoming less wasteful
Today’s hydraulics systems are made with advanced materials that are lightweight, have coatings that are resistant to wear and tear, and are self-lubricating. Some of these components are even 3D printed. There are also materials and components being made to handle higher pressures than ever before.
One example that’s been around for a while is quick coupling technology that makes changing attachments and disconnecting lines fast, safe, and easy without having to depressurize the whole system. Although this particular technology has been in use for many years, it’s always being improved to handle higher pressure.
Smart hydraulics
You know about smart thermostats, refrigerators, and doorbell cameras, but smart technology applies to hydraulics, too. For example, companies are using IoT integration for the following tasks:
- Real-time monitoring
- Predictive maintenance
- Remote diagnostics
- Remote control of machinery and equipment
- Automated performance optimization
- And more
The more complex a hydraulics system is, the more chance it has to fail without warning. With IoT connected sensors, companies can be notified when small measurements fall outside the normal range that might indicate failure is on the horizon. Being able to inspect and fix the problem before complete failure not only prevents downtime, but it can prevent additional damage to the rest of the system.
Energy efficient hydraulics
While the world focuses on eco-friendly practices, even the hydraulics industry is trying to become more energy efficient. There are a variety of energy-efficient implementations being used with hydraulics, including:
- Load-sensing technology
- Variable speed pump drives
- Energy recovery systems
- Regenerative systems
- Smart power management
Environmental responsibility
In addition to aiming to be energy efficient, many manufacturers and businesses are focused on making hydraulics environmentally friendly. One of the best known ways hydraulics are becoming eco-friendly is through the use of biodegradable fluids. These fluids are typically made from vegetable oil, but some are synthetic. They are non-toxic and the fluids made from vegetable oil biodegrade quickly and pose low toxicity to aquatic life, should it spill into a body of water.
Other hydraulics systems are being adjusted to reduce fluid consumption, which reduces waste. Even when hydraulic fluid is biodegradable, it’s still important to reduce use as much as possible and take care not to allow leaks or spills. It may be biodegradable, but it still needs to be disposed of properly.
Although it’s not a direct result of the hydraulics system, many manufacturers are using hydraulics systems to increase sustainability in their practices. Sometimes the old way doesn’t work, and hydraulics are an excellent replacement for outdated, wasteful technology.
Electro-hydraulic systems
An electro-hydraulic system uses electronics technology to enhance control and efficiency where precision is required, like the motion control needed in robotics and advanced manufacturing.
Simulations
Simulation technology is changing the way hydraulic systems are designed, tested, and maintained. An entire hydraulic system is replicated in a virtual world where engineers can control the system virtually to simulate real-world applications and analyze how the system performs when subjected to specific conditions. This is an easier and cheaper way to test systems and bypass the need for developing physical prototypes.
Modular hydraulics
Although most companies have unique needs, often, the basics of a hydraulic system is the same. This is where modular hydraulics come into play. Experts are working hard to develop modular systems that can be tailored to individual needs through interchangeable components. A modular hydraulic system not only offers convenience and flexibility, but it’s easier to maintain.
The future of hydraulics lies in technological advances
As hydraulic technology evolves, these trends will transition from small improvements to a fundamental aspect of system design. It’s only a matter of time before all hydraulic systems are sustainable, efficient, and environmentally conscious.
