In the enlightening article “Heating Things Up: What’s Next in Hydraulics?” from Machinery Lubrication, the inevitable march of progress in engineering takes center stage. From the IT sector’s adherence to Moore’s Law, predicting the doubling of computer chip power every 18 months, to the parallel rise in manufacturing costs, the hydraulics industry faces its own set of challenges and innovations.
Acknowledging the continuous development in the hydraulics sector, we observe that over the past three decades, component operating pressures have steadily risen. Accompanied by advancements in seal and hose design, oil additive technology, and filtration techniques, this progress yields more efficient hydraulic components with higher power densities at a reduced cost.
However, as the hydraulics industry embraces higher operating pressures and closer tolerances, challenges arise. The increased susceptibility to wear and damage from oil contamination and inadequate lubrication necessitates proactive maintenance for optimal reliability and performance.
The article also raises a critical question: What’s the next step for hydraulic equipment manufacturers? The perspective on this matter is clear. Some manufacturers may be taking a risky path by pushing for hydraulic systems designed to operate continuously at temperatures exceeding 110 degrees Celsius. Despite the demand, a cautious approach is advocated, emphasizing the detrimental impact of excessive heat on hydraulic systems.
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Photo and article with all rights reserved, courtesy of machinerylubrication.com
