A note from the editor
In our April issue, we take a closer look at how fluid power technologies continue to evolve in step with the broader push toward efficiency, electrification, and smarter system design. From emerging actuation architectures to practical maintenance insights, the stories in this edition reflect both where the industry is headed and the fundamentals that still matter most.
Leading the issue is our feature on electrohydrostatic actuation, which explores how these systems are moving beyond their aerospace roots into a growing number of industrial applications. By pairing hydraulic cylinders with motor-driven pump units, electrohydrostatic systems eliminate many of the inefficiencies associated with traditional valve-controlled hydraulics while dramatically reducing system size and fluid requirements.
As part of our deeper coverage on contamination control, we also dive into a topic that every maintenance team has encountered: clogged filters. While filters are designed to protect systems, this article explains how excessive contamination can lead to pressure drop, bypass conditions, and ultimately reduced performance or even system failure.
On the pneumatics side, Festo examines how facilities can achieve meaningful energy savings without major capital investment. By identifying leaks, understanding true machine pressure requirements, and addressing peak demand events, plants can significantly reduce compressor load and overall energy consumption.
For our cover story, we turn to the harsh realities of mobile hydraulics in mining environments. With dust, contamination, extreme pressures, and temperature swings all working against system reliability, proper sealing becomes critical. This article highlights how advanced materials, multi-stage sealing strategies, and careful component selection can extend equipment life and prevent failure in some of the toughest operating conditions on earth.
Don’t miss our regular departments as well, where we cover more pneumatics and contamination fundamentals as well as our Design Notes section, which introduces readers to new technology from FluidLoop and HUSCO.
Thanks for reading!
Mary C. Gannon • Editor-in-Chief
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/marygannonramsak
Filed Under: Digital Issues
