Fluid Power Journal March 2024

Page 12

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Publisher’s Note: The information provided in this publication is for informational purposes only. While all efforts have been taken to ensure the technical accuracy of the material enclosed, Fluid Power Journal is not responsible for the availability, accuracy, currency, or reliability of any information, statement, opinion, or advice contained in a third party’s material. Fluid Power Journal will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by reliance on information obtained in this publication.

Features 06 Unlocking the Potential of Hydraulic Flanges A comprehensive guide to optimize performance and efficiency of a hydraulic flange. » COVER STORY 10 Transform Production With Fluid Power and Robotics Revolutionizing manufacturing with pneumatic solutions in robotics. 12 Smart Servo Pump Improves Performance Smart servo pump revolutionizes zinc die casting and concrete manufacturing. » TEST YOUR SKILLS 20 Calculating Intensifier Ratio for Given Pressure and Flow Understanding Air Over Oil Hydraulic Intensifiers: Applications and Working Principles. 26 Beyond Viscosity The key characteristics of efficient, high-performance hydraulic fluids. 28 Mobile Machines for Every Job EDH 100 lpm Compact Directional Valve for Mobile Machines March 2024 VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 26 10 06 IN THIS ISSUE
Departments
Notable Words
05 Figure It Out
14 NFPA Update
15 IFPS Update
Product
23 Literature Review 24
Spotlight
47 Classifieds

Cultivating Success MENTORSHIP AND NETWORKING IN FLUID POWER

» MY JOURNEY IN the fluid power industry, initially as an inside salesperson, then an outside salesperson, and now as an owner of a fluid power distribution company, offers a distinctive perspective. Born in the “1900’s” rather than the early 2000’s like the newest class of potential graduates, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my experiences and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way with students. Their boundless enthusiasm for learning and their determination to drive positive change always fill me with hope for the future. These discussions serve as a reminder of my own responsibility to guide and mentor them as they pursue the future they envision.

Mentorship doesn’t have to be a formal arrangement. Throughout my career, I’ve been so fortunate to cross paths with individuals who have become invaluable mentors.

Very early in my career, I had the opportunity to work with some incredibly brilliant fluid power professionals. But mentorship doesn’t have to mean giving someone all the answers. In fact, one of my very first mentors in fluid power was well known for not giving us the answers. He had a rule that he would help you find the answer, but only if you could show him where in the book or catalog you tried to find it but couldn’t. Without knowing it at the time, that mentor taught me to become a tenacious problem solver. It’s an essential skill I use today and work to develop in others on my team.

Sometimes, mentors aren’t always there to teach you technical skills, but they help teach you the softer ones. Early in my time on the Board at the International Fluid Power Society, I was very reserved with my opinions and a bit overwhelmed with the prominent industry professionals in the room surrounding me. These people literally wrote the book(s) on fluid power.

But during one of the evening social events, I was speaking casually with some of the other board members when one said “That’s a really good idea. You should bring that up tomorrow.” When I seemed a little stand-offish about the idea, he pushed, “You’re here for a reason. We want your opinion. We need your voice. Speak up.” That was a defining moment for me, where that friend turned into a mentor, and that mentor forced me to see the value in my own ideas. I did have opinions and ideas, and they asked me to be there. And while not

all my ideas are going to work or even make it to a committee for discussion, that was the day I really found my voice.

Mentorship initiatives can focus on leadership development, technical skills, or even just navigating workplace dynamics. The International Fluid Power Society recognized this and launched a formal mentorship program back in 2022 to bolster this very idea. They’re always looking for new mentors and mentees who are ready to expand their networks and make a positive impact.

Networking is another critical component of empowering young people in fluid power. As the saying goes, “Your network is your net worth.” Building a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and support for your entire career.

Young professionals are essential to the creation and execution of brand-new ideas that are necessary for the next generation of fluid power solutions. We need people who can take real-world problems back to core concepts and use all the tools available to solve them, but with a fresh and innovative approach.

Throughout my career in the fluid power industry, I have had many allies who have played pivotal roles in advocating for me and my career growth. Mentorship, while formal or informal, offers guidance and support, while networking opportunities help us connect, learn, and grow. By fostering a culture of mentorship and inclusivity, we can pave the way for more young people to take a place at the table and contribute to the success and innovation of the fluid power industry.

When was the last time you helped someone in their career?

04 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G NOTABLE WORDS

PUBLISHER

Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Palmer, PA 18045-7118

Tel: 800-730-5904 or 610-923-0380

Fax: 610-923-0390 • Email: Art@FluidPowerJournal.com www.FluidPowerJournal.com

Founders: Paul and Lisa Prass

Associate Publisher and Marketing Consultant: Kristy Jones

Editor: Hannah Coursey

Technical Editor: Dan Helgerson, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPSD, CFPMT, CFPCC

Senior Marketing Consultant: Bob McKinney

Graphic Designer: Nicholas Reeder

Accounting: Donna Bachman, Sarah Varano, Karina Ocasio

Circulation Manager: Josh Shoup

INTERNATIONAL FLUID POWER SOCIETY

1930 East Marlton Pike, Suite A-2, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003-2141

Tel: 856-424-8998 • Fax: 856-424-9248

Email: AskUs@ifps.org • Web: www.ifps.org

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President: Jeff Hodges, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPMHM - Altec Industries, Inc.

Immediate Past President: Scott Sardina, PE, CFPAI, CFPHS - Waterclock Engineering Corporation

First Vice President: Garrett Hoisington, CFPAI/AJPPOpen Loop Energy

Treasurer: Lisa DeBenedetto, CFPS - GS Global Resources

Vice President Certification: James O’Halek, CFPAI/AJPP - The Boeing Company

Vice President Marketing: Chauntelle Baughman, CFPHSOneHydraulics, Inc.

Vice President Education: Daniel Fernandes, CFPAI – Hawe Hydraulik

Vice President Membership: Brian Wheeler, CFPAI/AJPP - The Boeing Company

DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE

Bradlee Dittmer, CFPPS - IMI Precision Engineering

Brian Kenoyer, CFPHS - CemenTech

Bruce Bowe, CFPAI/AJPP - Altec Industries, Inc.

Cary Boozer, PE, CFPE - Motion Industries, Inc.

Ethan Stuart, CFPS, CFPECS - Quadrogen Power Systems

Jon Rhodes, CFPAI, CFPS, CFPECS - CFC Industrial Training

Stephen Blazer, CFPE, CFPS - Altec Industries, Inc.

Wade Lowe, CFPS - Hydraquip Distribution, Inc.

Jeff Curlee, CFPS - Cross Mobile Hydraulics & Controls

Deepak Kadamanahalli, CFPS - CNH Industrial

Steven Downey, CFPAI/AJPP - Hydraulex

John Juhasz, CFPS - Kraft Fluid Systems

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (EX-OFFICIO)

Donna Pollander, ACA

HONORARY DIRECTOR (EX-OFFICIO)

Ernie Parker, Hydra Tech, Inc. CFPAI/AJPP

IFPS STAFF

Chief Executive Officer: Donna Pollander, ACA

Communications Coordinator: Victoria Piro

Technical Director: Thomas Blansett, CFPS, CFPAI

Sr. Training/Dev. Manager: Bradley (BJ) Wagner, CFPAI/AJPP

Assistant Director: Jenna Mort

Certification Logistics Manager: Kyle Pollander Bookkeeper: Diane McMahon

Administrative Assistant: Beth Borodziuk

Instructional Designer & Layout: Chalie Clair

NEW PROBLEM

Foam Injection Machine Overheats

» MANY PEOPLE DON’T quite understand “Slip in logic cartridge” valves. The attached circuit is a good example showing a solenoid unloading relief valve. When energized, the valves directional valve relief poppet will open at its maximum 13.8 MPa (2000 PSI) setting and de-energizing the directional control valve will allow flow to return to tank with a very low pressure drop.

The problem with the machine overheating seemed to be caused by the relief not unloading when the solenoid operated valve is de-energized during the idle cycle. This causes the full pump flow to return to tank at 13.8 MPa (2000 PSI) pressure drop across the valve’s poppet. This was adding approximately 7° C (14 °F) temperature increase in the flow going back to the tank. The cooler was not designed for this amount of heat being generated.

Examining the directional valve and main relief poppet showed no signs of malfunctioning or sticking.

What would you do next?

For the solution, see page 24.

Robert Sheaf has more than 45 years troubleshooting, training, and consulting in the fluid power field. Email rjsheaf@cfc-solar.com or visit his website at www.cfcindustrialtraining.com. Visit fluidpowerjournal.com/figure-it-out to view previous problems.

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Fluid Power Journal (ISSN# 1073-7898) is the official publication of the International Fluid Power Society published monthly with four supplemental issues, including a Systems Integrator Directory, Off-Highway Suppliers Directory, Tech Directory, and Manufacturers Directory, by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc., 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Palmer, PA 18045-7118. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication is acceptable with credit. Publishers assume no liability for any information published. We reserve the right to accept or reject all advertising material and will not guarantee the return or safety of unsolicited art, photographs, or manuscripts. FIGURE IT OUT
Flange Type Check Valve Bodies INSERTA® PRODUCTS Blue Bell, PA • 215.643.0192 www.inserta.com ©2024 Reversible Check Valve Elements

Empowering Industry Professionals with In-Depth Insights on Hydraulic Flange Standards and Selection

Ahydraulic flange is an adapter that connects a flange pad of a component or other flange to some other connection. Money, time, safety, and design are being compromised due to a lack of understanding of the options available when specifying flange standards. Several times a week, we have users who do not understand the choices that are available when specifying hydraulic flanges. This article will discuss the ten items involved in specifying four-bolt hydraulic flanges and available options for each. These ten items are:

From the standard:

1. Pad size (bolt pattern)

2. Screw size and thread

3. O-ring size

4. Maximum rated working pressure (MRWP)

Additional items:

5. Flange type

6. Connection type

7. Connection size

8. Geometry

9. Material

10. Extras

The starting point is generally the component that the flange is attaching to, which gives the first 4 items that we don’t have control. The component is probably manufactured to a standard that specifies the mounting pad and the first 4 items in the list above:

• Screw size and thread(although metric or inch screws will need to be specified)

1. Pad size (bolt hole spacing)

• Bolt pattern

• O-ring size

• Maximum pressure rating

The component that the flange attaches to might indicate the standard and size or bolt-hole pattern. Knowing the country of origin of the equipment can be helpful. Japanese equipment is more likely to be associated with a JIS pattern than ISO 6164, which is based on a German standard. Knowing the outside dimensions of the flange is often not helpful. Different manufacturing methods use different blank sizes. Many international standards use the abbreviations DN (nominal diameter) and PN (nominal pressure) as part of the size designation. Don’t confuse nominal and actual. Nominal (name) is used to designate convenient groupings. Remember nothing on any Schedule 2-inch pipe measures exactly 2 inches.

If unsure of the standard, the easiest way to determine it is using the bolt pad and screw size. In our experience, the vast majority of rectangular mounting pads are SAE J518-1/ISO 6162-1 (Code 61) or SAE J518-2/ISO 6162-2 (Code 62). SAE J518 and ISO 6162 are mostly technically identical and can be substituted for each other, except the SAE standard includes some-inch screws for larger Code 62 sizes. The Code 61 series and the Code 62 series have different mounting patterns and maximum rated pressures. Several Code 62 patterns are similar to Code 61 patterns one size larger. Flange size is designated by dash number or DN number. The dash number is the maximum center hole size in 16ths of an inch (for example, a –32 flange has a 2-inch nominal through hole size). Don’t confuse DN with DIN, the German standards organization. The DN number is the size of the nominal maximum center hole that can be put in the pad expressed in millimeters. SAE J518-1 flanges are sometimes nominally referred to as “3000 psi flanges” even though the maximum rated working pressure varies from 5000 psi to 500 psi depending on size.

Measurements of the bolt pattern need to be fairly precise (+/0.25mm (.010”)) especially with square pattern bolt pads. Some manufacturers generate non-standard patterns on their components but those patterns are generally square. In the engineering section of MAIN’s website1 there is an article showing a great method for accurately measuring the bolt patterns.

BC stands for bolt circle, which is the distance between the centerlines of diagonal holes. If D = E, the distance between adjacent holes, that value defines a “bolt square”. The table (right) shows the seven common patterns between 2.728 inches bolt square and 2.828 inches bolt square. The numbers in parenthesis show the scheme and common number for the pattern.

It is trickier to determine the standard related to a square pattern. A square bolt pattern can be based on a bolt circle or what can be called a bolt square. Generally, people use whole numbers or common fractions when designing parts. A four-bolt pattern could have common numbers between adjacent screws (bolt square), or diagonal screws (bolt circle). It gets further complicated by having inch and metric numbers. Further help can be derived from knowing

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BSq

2.728 (98 mm BC)

2.740 (3.875 in BC)

2.750 (2.750 in BSq)

2.756 (70 mm BSq)

2.784 (100 mm BC)

2.825 (2.825 in BSq)

2.828 (4.000 in BC)

BC = Bolt Circle, diagonal holes

BSq = Bolt Square, adj. holes (non-accepted notation) Standard

Many other company standards exist. If two standards are listed check screw and O-ring sizes.

where the equipment is from and who manufactured it. Germany and other European countries generally use a bolt circle while the Japanese use a bolt square and both are, of course, metric. Square inch patterns are used by some US manufacturers including Vickers, Oilgear, and others. MAIN’s website offers a “mounting pattern to flange standard” chart of the SAE, JIS, DIS, and ISO patterns.2

2. Screw size and type (inch/metric)

4.188

4.25

4.454 4.454

4.75

4.875

MAIN SQ3 - 3 1/2

ISO 6164 - 400 Bar - 3 1/2 [70]

5.125 3.062 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 4 [102]

6 2.812 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 3 [76]

6

The standard will also let you know the size of the screws. You may need to determine if the tapped holes are inch or metric. The SAE/ISO standards allow both, and many of the US branches of foreign companies design equipment using a “metric” pattern but substituting inch screws. The SAE/ISO pattern allows a common clearance screw hole for most sizes but tap holes are still different. Be careful to make sure that the correct screw is being used. The photo shows that mismatches are possible. In the back row of the figure to the side, metric screws 45mm (1.77 inches) long are put into inch-size tapped holes and the front row has 1.75-inch screws (44.45 mm) long are put into metric tapped holes. The difference in lead and diameter allows some combinations to go very deep and become tighter (due to pitch variations) parts together. The engagement of the screw can be very small as well, which results in thread stripping among other problems. The screw material grade is generally 10.9 or 12.9 metric grades or Grade 8 and ASME B18.3 inch grades. It should be noted that ISO 6164 specifies special installation instructions for installing screws.

3. O-ring size

The last item that the standard gives you is the O-ring size for the pattern. Most current standards use the O-ring as a crush seal, with the O-ring groove fill approaching 95% or higher in worst-case scenarios. The O-ring diameter is important for determining the MRWP as well as the maximum fluid passage. The O-ring material is determined by the hydraulic fluid, the temperatures, and cost. In the past, the O-ring hardness was 70 durometer but current specifications call for a harder 90 durometer. The 70-durometer O-ring is softer and fills in scratches and voids better while the harder 90-durometer O-ring resists extrusion better.

All of the above is given by the standard and having the standard saves users from having to figure it out and the mistakes that may result.

4. Maximum rated working pressure (MRWP)

The maximum rated working pressure of the flange connection is generally determined by the size and strength of the screws, the area within the O-ring diameter, and the design factor. The design factor can vary from about two to four or more, with four generally being used for standard commercial work. Generally making the flange thicker will not increase the MRWP. As pressures and sizes increase, this design factor's value has been brought into question.

MAIN has seen various users and designers do some interesting things that have a dynamic effect on the MRWP. The first is to turn the bolt holes into slots to solve adjustments or other issues. This could be useful, but the MRWP can drop 50% or more and fatigue life may

continued on page 08

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D E BC
between 2.725 and 2.825
Patterns
Reference
Long D (Inch) Short E (Inch) BC (Inch) Flange Standard - Pad Size 1.5 0.688 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 1/2 [13] 1.594 0.718 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 1/2 [13] 1.875 0.875 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 3/4 [19]
0.937 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 3/4 [19] 2.062 1.031 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 1 [ 25] 2.086 2.086 2.95 JIS B 2291 210K SH - 1 [25] 2.205 2.205 3.118 JIS B 2291 210K SS - 1 1/4 [32] 2.25 1.093 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 1 [25] 2.312 1.188 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 1 1/4 [32] 2.48 2.48 3.507 JIS B 2291 210K SH - 1 1/4 [32] 2.559 2.559 3.619 JIS B 2291 210K SS - 1 1/2 [40] 2.625 1.25 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 1 1/4 [32] 2.728 2.728 3.858 ISO 6164 - 250 Bar & ISO 6164 - 400 Bar - 2 [51] 2.75 1.406 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 1 1/2 [38] 2.756 2.756 3.898 JIS B 2291 210K SH - 1 1/2 [40] 2.874 2.874 4.064 JIS B 2291 210K SS - 2 [50] 3.062 1.688 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 2 [51] 3.125 1.437 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 1 1/2 [38]
3.15 4.455 JIS B 2291 210K SH - 2 [50] 3.285 3.285 4.646 ISO 6164 - 250 Bar & ISO 6164 - 400 Bar - 2 1/2 [56] 3.5 2 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 2 1/2 [64] 3.622 3.622 5.122 JIS B 2291 210K SS - 2 1/2 [65] 3.812 1.75 SAE J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 2 [51]
5.568
2291
4.037 5.709 ISO 6164 - 250 Bar & ISO 6164 - 400 Bar - 3 [63]
4.055 5.735 JIS B 2291 210K SS
3
2
3.15
3.937 3.937
JIS B
210K SH - 2 1/2 [65] 4.037
4.055
-
[80]
2.438 SAE
J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 3 [76]
6.01
4.25
6.299
SAE J518 C61
6162-1
4.872 6.89 ISO 6164 - 400 Bar
4
2.75
/ ISO
- 3 1/2 [89] 4.872
-
[80]
SAE
2.312
J518 C62 / ISO 6162-2 - 2 1/2 [64]
3.625 SAE J518 C61 / ISO 6162-1 - 5 [127]

continued from page 07

be affected. The area under the screw head is of vital importance to the holding power of the pad.

Another idea is to eliminate one screw hole to allow an elbow to be made without reducing the flow. At first thought it would seem that the MRWP is reduced by 25% (1 of 4 screws) but it actually reduces by up to 33% or more because the force of the screws does not align with the pressure force under the O-ring, resulting in bending moments.

The pressures that the flange is rated for are determined from above. It is useful to know the pressure the flange will see, including spikes and intensified pressures caused by a cylinder in the hydraulic circuit, both of which can sometimes be above system pressure. This will determine if changes need to be made.

5. Flange type (O-ring or flat-faced)

The component flange pad attached to will determine the flange type. A hydraulic flange union is made between a flat-faced component and a component with an O-ring. In general, the O-ring component has clearance bolt holes, and the flat-faced side has tapped bolt holes. If both the component and the flange have O-rings or both are flat-faced, a gender changer is needed. Gender changers are flat-faced/flat-faced or O-ring/O-ring components that are sandwiched between the other components to provide the missing surfaces.

6. Connection type

Connection type is where things become interesting as there are many choices. Connection type refers to the connections on the other end(s) from the flange pad. They can be: threaded (NPTF, SAE

Straight thread, BSPP, BSPT, ISO 6149, and more); welded (butt weld, socket weld, j groove, for pipe or tube in inch or metric sizes); brazed (solder, silver solder, copper solder); flanged (SAE J518/ISO 6162, ISO 6164, ANSI B13.3, MAIN-SQ6000, MAIN-SQ3000, or other); and blind. Blind flanges are used to seal off future expansion points. Other cases involve a socket weld flange on one side and a straight thread flange on the other. As long as the flanges have the same mounting pad and different flange types, there is no problem forming a connection.

7. Connection size

The connection size refers to the size of the fitting that the flange is adapting to. The flange may be a flange head to a hose that is already been attached but at other times the flange will be adapting to another fitting, pipe, or tube. Reducers are readily available. Connection sizes are also referenced by DN or Dash numbers. The Port Size Reference chart shows typical sizes and threads. Remember that pipe size is based on the approximate ID while tubes are based on the approximate OD.

8. Geometry

Geometry, or the shape, is generally easy to determine and describe. There are in-line, elbow, tee (both run and branch), Y, and cross. MAIN uses the O-ring face or the largest flat-face, as the starting point of its numbering system. On a tee, if there is a port opposite the O-ring face (referred to as “on the run”), the connector is a run tee. If the O-ring face is 90° from the port face (referred to as “on the branch”), it is a branch tee. A side outlet elbow has three connection ends that are 90° from each other. If a connector has an asymmetric shape, it may have a hand, and it might be necessary to describe it in terms of “right hand” or “left hand”. For example, if the asymmetric feature points left, it is described as having a “left hand”. Putting this together is a central hydraulic testing center with multiple test stands. A central hydraulic power center and a supply line and discharge line around the outside with spots for future expansion are installed.

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Port Size Reference Dash # Pipe Size Inch NPTF SAE J1926 (ORB) BSPP BSPT IOS 6149 Metric DN -06 3/8 3/8-18 9/16-18 3/8-19 M16x1.5 -08 1/2 1/2-14 3/4-16 1/2-14 M18x1.5 15 -10 5/8 7/8-10 M22x1.5 -12 3/4 3/4-14 1 1/16-12 3/4-14 M27x2 20 -14 7/8 1 3/16-12 -16 1 1-11.5 1 5/16-12 1-11 M33x2 25 -20 1 1/4 1 1/4-11.5 1 5/8-12 1 1/4-11 M42x2 32 -24 1 1/2 1 1/2-11.5 1 7/8-12 1 1/2-11 M48x2 40 -28 1 3/4 -32 2 2-11.5 2-11 M60x2 50 -36 2 1/4 -40 2 1/2 2 1/2-8 2 1/2-11 65 -48 3 3-8 80 -56 3 1/2 3 1/2-8 -64 4 4-8 -80 5 -96 6

This involves having three to six-inch flange-size high-pressure lines running around the perimeter joined with branch tees. The run of the tees is three to six-inch size ISO 6164, MAIN’s 3000 series, or MAIN’s 6000 series flange pads and one to two-inch SAE J518 flange pads (or any other port) branch on top to supply each station.

9. Material

Many materials are available. MAIN offers flanges made from AISI 1018 CF, ASTM A516-70 PVQ, AISI 1117, and AISI 1020 as stock items and can turn around any commercially available material quickly. Most of our AISI 1018 and AISI 1117 materials are bought from the mill to MAIN’s special requirements. This allows for improved material traceability and certification.

Stainless steel flanges are stocked by many suppliers in 304L grade and 316L grade as well. The “L” in stainless grades stands for extra low carbon and aids in welding. Welding non “L” grades can result in an area that is not stainless steel in the heat-affected zone and will rust. Other options such as aluminum, nickel, cuprous-nickel, and any commercially available material are available quickly. Some installations might require the use of specific materials to meet applicable codes. Know these codes and who will inspect and approve the part; sometimes one agency is required to inspect another’s code with conflicting requirements.

10. Extras

Other options available include counterbored bolt holes, offset ports, mounting holes, “chopped blocks”, and gauge/sampling ports. The flange is one of the least expensive locations for a gauge or sampling port.

MOUNTING KITS

Screws-size & type (inch/metric and socket/hex)

To mount the O-ring flange to the pad, a mounting kit consisting of 4 screws, 4 washers, and an O-ring is used. Unlike ANSI and API flanges, hydraulic flanges generally join metal to metal without a flat gasket between the surfaces; sealing is achieved by employing an O-ring that is compressed in a groove. This reduces fatigue issues and allows full torque to be applied to the bolts. High-strength fasteners are generally used (SAE grade 8 hex head, ANSI B18.3 socket head, ISO grade 10.9 hex head or socket head or better). The screw size is determined by the tapped holes and normally has a coarse thread. The use of corrosion-resistant bolts presents separate issues. In general, what makes bolts stronger also makes bolts less corrosion-resistant. Finding 10.9 metric grade bolts in stainless steel might not be possible, and they can be quite expensive. The SAE standard for Grade 8 screws specifies a material other than stainless steel. Bolts made from a corrosion-resistant material might not be able to match both the tensile strength and yield strengths of the bolts specified in the relevant flange standard, so application-specific accommodations have to be made.

O-Ring

Most hydraulic flanges use an O-ring for sealing. Many different materials and some different designs are available but the most common material used is Buna “N”. The material to be used is determined by the temperature and the fluid. The hydraulic fluid supplier should be consulted for the appropriate O-ring material.

In addition to material and size, O-rings are specified by hardness (durometer). For many years 70 durometer O-rings were used, but in the last 20 years or more 90 durometer O-rings have been used. If a SAE J518 flange is being used within specifications, it is many people’s opinion that it should not make a difference.

Conclusion

While selecting the right flange can seem like a daunting task, we hope that this article has provided you with the necessary steps to understand and begin a conversation with an engineer which will be quicker and more productive than you would have originally. We hope that this paper will reduce the number of issues users see and make it easier to order the correct flange the first time, replace an old flange or just gain more knowledge about flanges. •

¹https://www.mainmanufacturing.com/pdf/measure.pdf

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²https://www.mainmanufacturing.com/RF_Series.aspx

Transform Production With FLUID POWER and ROBOTICS

High-performance fluid power components can help improve efficiency and quality, reduce waste and energy consumption, as well as increase safety.

From improving efficiency and quality to reducing energy consumption to optimizing a skilled workforce, manufacturers are increasingly challenged by a confluence of pressures. One solution that manufacturers rely on to help meet these challenges is robotics. In the automotive industry alone, manufacturers have more than one million robots in operation, more than any other industry.1

Robots play a critical role in transforming the factory floor, and one element is particularly important: end-of-arm tooling. These components, placed at the end of a robotic arm, interact with the product or product elements to enable the robot to perform tasks, such as welding, painting or gripping. When combined with pneumatic power systems, end-of-arm tooling is key to making robotics effective factory automation tools.

Pneumatic solutions, which use power to generate motion and control various forms of media, are particularly well suited for a wide range of industrial applications, from force control and assembling to handling and cutting tasks. Operators use pneumatics to control air or gases at higher precision and

speed. These solutions also offer high power density, reliability and robustness — all while supporting the need for improved efficiency, reduced waste and consumption — and they often provide a smaller footprint.

Working as part of the robotic system, pneumatic components help the operator perform tasks reliably, as well as more quickly and more efficiently. Pneumatic systems can also integrate with various safety systems to enhance safe operation in tough environments, or when in use near workers.

Improving efficiency and quality

Manufacturers using paint robots in manufacturing and automotive industries are challenged to create consistencies in paint spray, as well as faster reaction times for flow and pressure changes in a paint robot’s atomizers. These measures can avoid the overspray of paint media and reduce the paint sludge generation.

In a paint sprayer, the paint’s flow must be controlled via a closed-loop monitoring system that can adjust the valve. A high-performance proportional valve, a type of solenoid valve that changes output values in proportion to

https://ifr.org/ifr-press-releases/news/one-million-robots-work-in-car-industry-worldwide-new-record

input, can enhance efficiency by providing fast response and consistent control.

For example, one type of regulator that is designed for the paint robot application has a response time of below 80 milliseconds for a flow or pressure change. Customized solutions can add even more control, for example, with an external flow sensor for a closed feedback loop. Manufacturers can control the shape air in and shape air out, as well as the rotation force of the atomizer turbine. By using self-control adaptation technology, the valve can help the atomizer reach target flow in the lowest possible time frame.

In addition, an advanced, lightweight valve terminal can have an integrated proportional regulator inside the valve terminals. With the ability to handle up to 300 Nl/min of flow with up to 64 valves, this type of terminal provides long life cycles of up to 140 million, reducing a manufacturer’s cost of ownership.

Reducing waste & energy consumption

Along with increasing costs, industrial manufacturers are increasingly charged with finding ways to reduce waste and increase sustainability actions. Factories that paint components or

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¹
COVER STORY

end products, like automotive manufacturing, produce paint sludge as a byproduct.

Paint sludge is a mix of materials composed of, among other things, resins, pigments, curing agents and organic solvents. It is a primary source of hazardous waste in auto manufacturing.2 It is estimated each car produces about three to five kilograms of paint sludge and man-

ufacturers spend approximately $400 per ton to treat. With about 80 million vehicles produced globally, auto makers are challenged to reduce the high cost of treating paint sludge.

High-performance solutions, including solenoid valves, pressure regulators and proportional valves, can all play a role in reducing waste materials in these applications. For example, some proportional valves reduce the time required to change the flow of compressed air while painting various areas of the workpiece, reducing overspray and in turn lowering the formation of paint sludge.

In addition to waste, factories dedicate an estimated 30% of their total energy use toward compressed air — leaks and process inefficiencies cause up to a third of those losses. While factories check periodically for leaks, time between checks can allow minor leaks to morph into major losses.

Monitoring compressed air in real time allows operators to see and understand what’s happening in their compressed air circuit. From pressure and moisture to temperature and humidity, smart sensors measure these and other parameters to create data. An edge device then aggregates data streams and sends them to software that contextualizes the data.

Operators view the resulting trends, diagnostics and statistics so they can make informed decisions that lower energy consumption.

Improving real-time visibility

Real-time visibility provides manufacturers with transparency into key process inputs, including air. This allows operators to monitor and analyze in real time so they can make effective, agile decisions about compressed air systems. When manufacturers incorporate real-time monitoring, they can identify and correct problems before they lead to downtime.

Pneumatic systems can also play a key role by enhancing datadriven optimization. Pneumatics can now integrate with the overall automation system to provide real-time, comprehensive and actionable performance data, helping manufacturers improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

For example, advanced compact proportional valves eliminate the need for external flow and pressure sensors while saving space and weight on the robot arm. Manufacturers can also consider air filter regulators equipped with sensors that can calculate up to eight parameters, like compressed air pressure, temperature and volumetric flow rate, that are critical for paint applications. When operators analyze the data, they can make compressed air usage more efficient.

Enhancing safety

systems integrated with safety features, like pressure sensors, limit switches and interlocks.

For example, during a handling or forging process, the gripping element of a robot that operates via vacuum system should include safety features that prevent the gripped object from falling during a power loss. One option is to use a spring-based mechanism that, during a power loss, locks one end of the gripper, allowing it to hold the gripped part until power resumes. Likewise, fail-safe valves can hold vacuum towards the gripper function to keep the gripped object in position for a time until the vacuum resumes.

In addition, closing the vacuum feedback loop to the valve island and alarm programmable logic controller (PLC) can alert operators when the vacuum drops to a specified level, allows operators to continuously monitor the system and act before a failure.

Machine safety is paramount in any industrial environment. Manufacturers must protect personnel with safety systems that reduce the level of risk by identifying potentially hazardous conditions or directing corrective actions that can reduce accident impact.

Robotics use can play a role in creating safer work environments. These machines can handle hazardous or dangerous tasks to reduce risk and create a more secure working environment for employees. Robots can further enhance safety when equipped with pneumatic

Optimizing performance in industrial robots

For manufacturers, pneumatic systems can be important components in the robotics that transform the factory floor. When choosing end-of-arm tooling, it is important to work with a proven automation supplier that can supply a wide range of scalable solutions, from high-pressure control to real-time intelligence. Manufacturers able to leverage advanced technology place themselves in a better position to succeed. •

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² https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26773426

SMART SERVO PUMP IMPROVES PERFORMANCE

In the application of hot chamber die casting for zinc production, the application of Smart Servopumps within hydraulic systems has proven to be highly successful. The Smart Servopump is integral to various critical functions of the die casting press, including the opening and closing of the die mold, injection of hot molten metal, ejection of casted material, and the loading of accumulators during the machine cycle's idle phase. Notable installation features include the vertical mounting of the Smart Servopump with the pump submerged, a design choice made to minimize the unit's footprint. Additionally, a fire-resistant water-based fluid (HFC water-glycol) is utilized due to the proximity to the hot molten metal.

The advantages of employing the Smart Servopump in this context are substantial. The smart start-up functionality leads to 50% less machine start-up time by the automatic configuration setup and auto-tuning features. Furthermore, there is a remarkable 48% energy savings compared to traditional solutions for a typical working cycle of a 113.4 metric ton (125-ton) machine. The

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inclusion of a built-in oscilloscope allows for in-depth analysis, enabling fine-tuning of the machine's energy consumption.

In the application of manufacturing equipment for concrete precast elements, Smart

boasting an impressive vertical stroke of almost 8 meters (26 feet). Additionally, the equipment features 12 cylinders and 4 hydraulic motors. A significant transformation has occurred with the replacement of the traditional power unit, comprised of two large electrical motors with 4 + 4 tandem pumps, replaced with three servo pumps, each delivering 150 lpm @ 170 bar (49 gpm at 2,465 psi). These servo pumps collectively manage the flow rate for the machine's main operations and operate independently during other cycle phases, facilitating the simultaneous movement of various hydraulic actuators. The new machine architecture has led to the elimination of numerous flow and pressure modular valves, as well as a reduction in the number of proportional valves. This has resulted in an overall simplification of the hydraulic circuit and electrical system

to a smooth start/stop that eliminates water hammer shocks once caused by tandem pump activation/deactivation, and improved machine performance. •

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June 2-5 | Williamsburg, VA 2024 Electric Utility Fleet
Conference Driving Safety, Sustainability & Technical Expertise Join professionals from companies across the U.S. and Canada that operate, manage and maintain utility equipment used by fleets and the industry’s leading manufacturers and service providers to exchange valuable information and find solutions to mutual challenges. Register at EUFMC.com
Managers

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Industry Trends With NFPA

» THE LATEST DATA published by the National Fluid Power Association shows November 2023 total fluid power shipments decreasing -10.6% month over month and -5.4% year over year. 12/12 rates of change for hydraulic and pneumatic shipments remain positive but are trending downward. The data and charts above are from NFPA’s Confidential Shipment Statistics (CSS) program where over 70 manufacturers of fluid power products report their monthly orders and shipments. More market information is available to NFPA members, allowing them to beter understand trends and anticipate change in fluid power and the many customer markets it serves. Contact NFPA at 414-778-3344 for more info.

TOTAL FLUID POWER SHIPMENTS

INDEX DATA: 3 MONTH MOVING AVERAGE & 12 MONTH MOVING AVERAGE

This graph of index data is generated by the total dollar volume reported to NFPA by CSS participants. This graph uses moving averages to smooth out the data and clearly identify trends. (Base Year 2018 = 100).

SHIPMENTS: PNEUMATIC, MOBILE HYDRAULIC, AND INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC

INDEX DATA: 12/12 RATE OF CHANGE

Each point on this graph represents the most recent 12 months of shipments compared to the previous 12 months of shipments. For example, 7.3% (the August 2023 level of the pneumatic series) indicates that the value of pneumatic shipments from September 2022 to August 2023 were 7.3% higher than the value of pneumatic shipments from September 2021 to August 2022.

ORDERS: PNEUMATIC, MOBILE HYDRAULIC, AND INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC

INDEX DATA: 12/12 RATE OF CHANGE

Each point on this graph represents the most recent 12 months of orders compared to the previous 12 months of orders. For example, 8.5% (the August 2023 level of the industrial hydraulic series) indicates that the value of industrial hydraulic orders received from September 2022 to August 2023 were 8.5% higher than the value of industrial hydraulic orders received from September 2021 to August 2022.

TOTAL SHIPMENTS: SEPTEMBER 2023

This table above shows various rates of change for the month of August 2023. Interpretation for each rate of change calculation:

M/M %: The percent change between the current month and the previous month.

Y/Y %: The percent change between the current month and the same month one year ago.

3/12 %: The percent change between the three most recent months and those same three months one year ago.

12/12 %: The percent change between the twelve most recent months and those same twelve months one year ago.

14 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G NFPA UPDATE
M/M% Y/Y% 3/12% 12/12% Shipments Shipments Shipments Shipments Fluid Power -10.6 -5.4 -4.8 3.9 Pneumatic -13.1 -6.5 -4.3 4.0 Hydraulic -11.0 -6.2 -4.0 6.5
*Preliminary data subject to revision.
3 Month Moving Avg 12 Month Moving Avg
Mobile Hydraulic Industrial Hydraulic
Mobile Hydraulic Industrial Hydraulic
Pneumatic
Pneumatic

Newly Certified Professionals

DECEMBER

2024

CONNECTOR AND CONDUCTOR (CC)

Hollianne McHugh, Northwestern Michigan College

Tyler Bristol, Student

Electronic Controls Specialist (ECS)

Christian O'Neal, Altec Industries, Inc.

Hydraulic Specialist (HS)

Brandon Clark, Alfred State College

Benjamin Roberts, Fluid Power Inc

Michael Abbott, John Henry Foster Company

Adam Aylsworth, John Henry Foster Company

Jonathon Boardman, John Henry Foster Company

Patrick Corrigan, John Henry Foster Company

Conner Faris, John Henry Foster Company

Chris Hill, John Henry Foster Company

Matt Lester, John Henry Foster Company

Jordan Sanders, John Henry Foster Company

William Wynn, John Henry Foster Company

James Cann, Pennecon Energy Hydraulic Systems Ltd.

Bridger Vollmer, Spudnik Equipment

Mark Jorgensen

Conner O'Reilly

Xavier Rivera

MOBILE HYDRAULIC MECHANIC (MHM)

Jeffrey Accatino, Altec Industries, Inc.

Aaron Allison, Altec Industries, Inc.

Logan Barner, Altec Industries, Inc.

Jonathan Lindsay, Altec Industries, Inc.

Karl Piessens, Altec Industries, Inc.

Brian Poole, Altec Industries, Inc.

Wesley Schuffert, Altec Industries, Inc.

James Jordan, Cannon Mining

Damion Brooks, Entergy

Parrish Dowdle, Entergy

Michael Rooney, PNM Resources

Troy Byrd, Serco

Jairo Arias Cortes, Tampa Electric Co

Ernesto Castro, Tampa Electric Co

Christopher Derby, Tampa Electric Co

Joshua Majors, Tampa Electric Co

Ian MacGillivray, The Boeing Company

Mark Mayberry, The Boeing Company

Travis Medberry, The Boeing Company

John Nason, The Boeing Company

Kole Price, The Boeing Company

Guy Roberts, The Boeing Company

Nicholas Walker, The Boeing Company

Bryan Allen, VDOT

Kenneth Bass, VDOT

Carl Belew, VDOT

Darren Boesen, VDOT

Allen Harrison, VDOT

Mark Komar, VDOT

Anthony Kruppa, VDOT

William Lampkin, VDOT

Walter Nimmo, VDOT

Ryan Mahr, VDOT Saluda District Shop

Joshua Hurst, Virginia Department of Transportation

Kenneth Jones, Virginia Department of Transportation

Ernest Lawhorne, Virginia Department of Transportation

Michael Raines, Virginia Department of Transportation

Tyler Crabb

Scott Greivell

Dennis Martin

MASTER MECHANIC (MM)

Mark Mayberry, The Boeing Company

Travis Medberry, The Boeing Company

John Nason, The Boeing Company

Guy Roberts, The Boeing Company

Nicholas Walker, The Boeing Company

Tyler Crabb

PNEUMATIC MECHANIC (PM)

Wyatt Walton Roth, Alpine Painting

WWW.IFPS.O r G | WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM March 2024 | 15 IFPS UPDATE
7042 Fairfield Business Dr. Fairfield, OH +1 513.874.3225 info@cfcind.com Interactive Prints illustrate machine operations & functions Video Troubleshoot capture tribal knowledge & train on-the-job Can Work Offline on any device browser Photo Navigation drilling down to individual components & parts I TM CFCINDUSTRIALTRAINING.com Digital Documents reverse-engineer systems cross/type components

Nominations Are Open!

» NOMINATIONS FOR THE Fluid Power Hall of Fame are now being accepted and will remain open until April 15th.

The Fluid Power industry's success is through the efforts of dedicated individuals - the innovators, researchers, application engineers, educators, and sales and service personnel. These people are the reasons our industry continues to thrive.

The Fluid Power Hall of Fame was established to acknowledge those individuals who have dedicated their careers and have made significant contributions to fluid power technology.

Any person can nominate an individual, living, or deceased, who demonstrated excellence within their 25+ year fluid power career - one nomination per category (living or deceased) per person.

A panel of judges will review applications and select inductees. The inductees will be announced on June 19, 2024 – Fluid Power Professionals Day.

Inductees will be honored during the IFPS awards dinner being held in Kansas City, MO.

Mark Your Calendar

For more information, visit ifps.org/web-seminars.

In-Person Review Training for Hydraulic Mechanics

WHEN: Apr 8 - 12 WHERE: Beaumont, TX

Registration link: https://www.ifps.org/mechanics-in-personreview-training-beaumont-tx

PS In-Person Review Training

WHEN: Apr 29 - May 3 WHERE: Windsor, Ontario ,CA Registration link: https://www.ifps.org/ps-in-person-reviewtraining-windsor-ontario-ca-42924-5324

16 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G IFPS UPDATE
UPCOMING TRAINING & EVENTS

MEET THE STAFF

Tom Blansett

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE WITH IFPS?

My title at IFPS is Technical Director and I work with the Certification Committee and the Education Committee to ensure that our Certification and Education products are up to date, relevant, accurate, and reflective of the current standards within the fluid power industry. I also conduct hydraulic and pneumatic training programs as required – both standard training courses that we offer as well as custom training when requested.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR POSITION?

I enjoy teaching and enjoy when I can see comprehension taking place and the student is no longer confused or not understanding the material. That is rewarding to me.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE?

This was a tough one as I have several movies that I enjoy watching over and over and never get tired of – I finally narrowed it down to three - The Sound of Music, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Somewhere in Time. My favorite selection goes to Somewhere in Time with Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY OUTSIDE OF WORK?

For some reason, my favorite hobbies over time have always been kind of risky as they ranged from bare rock climbing, riding motorcycles, and being a pilot. As I have gotten more “mature”, I no longer am able to participate as I used to, and I now enjoy the riskiest hobby of all – being a grandpa! Trying to keep up with my grandsons is challenging at times!

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?

I think that I would say that learning to fly and becoming a pilot was probably one of the most adventurous things I have done. Serving on a nuclear-powered submarine might be my next choice.

WHICH COUNTRY HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO VISIT?

I have always wanted to visit China and see the Great Wall.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I love to fly and being a pilot, I would love to be able to fly like Superman.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DISH?

I was born and raised in the South so my favorite dish would have to be pulled pork BBQ with peach cobbler as dessert.

IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE, WHERE WOULD IT BE?

Anywhere close to our children and grandchildren but I would hope that they would choose Hawaii!

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IFPS UPDATE

Individuals wishing to take any IFPS written certification tests can select from convenient locations across the United States and Canada. IFPS is able to offer these locations through its affiliation with the Consortium of College Testing Centers provided by National College Testing Association.

Contact Kyle Pollander at Kpollander@ifps.org if you do not see a location near you. Every effort will be made to accommodate your needs.

TENTATIVE TESTING DATES FOR ALL LOCATIONS

MARCH 2024

Tuesday 3/5 • Thursday 3/26

APRIL 2024

Tuesday 4/9 • Thursday 4/25

MAY 2024

Tuesday 5/7 • Thursday 5/23

JUNE 2024

Tuesday 6/4 • Thursday 6/27

Written Certification Test Locations

Alabama Auburn, AL Birmingham, AL Calera, AL Decatur, AL

Huntsville, AL Jacksonville, AL Mobile, AL Montgomery, AL

Normal, AL Tuscaloosa, AL

Alaska Anchorage, AK Fairbanks, AK

Arizona Flagstaff, AZ Glendale, AZ Mesa, AZ Phoenix, AZ Prescott, AZ Scottsdale, AZ Sierra Vista, AZ Tempe, AZ Thatcher, AZ Tucson, AZ Yuma, AZ

Arkansas Bentonville, AR Hot Springs, AR Little Rock, AR

California Aptos, CA Arcata, CA Bakersfield, CA Dixon, CA Encinitas, CA Fresno, CA

Irvine, CA

Marysville, CA

Riverside, CA

Salinas, CA

San Diego, CA

San Jose, CA

San Luis Obispo, CA

Santa Ana, CA

Santa Maria, CA

Santa Rosa, CA

Tustin, CA

Yucaipa, CA

Colorado Aurora, CO Boulder, CO Springs, CO

Denver, CO

Durango, CO Ft. Collins, CO

Greeley, CO Lakewood, CO Littleton, CO Pueblo, CO

Delaware

Dover, DE

Georgetown, DE

Newark, DE

Florida

Avon Park, FL Boca Raton, FL

Arizona

California

Colorado

Florida

Georgia Maine Michigan Minnesota

Montana New Jersey

Nova Scotia Pennsylvania Texas Washington Wyoming Western Australia

Cocoa, FL Davie, FL

Daytona Beach, FL

Fort Pierce, FL

Ft. Myers, FL

Gainesville, FL

Jacksonville, FL

Miami Gardens, FL

Milton, FL

New Port Richey, FL Ocala, FL

Georgia Albany, GA Athens, GA Atlanta, GA Carrollton, GA Columbus, GA Dahlonega, GA Dublin, GA Dunwoody, GA Forest Park, GA

Lawrenceville, GA Morrow, GA Oakwood, GA

Savannah, GA

Statesboro, GA Tifton, GA Valdosta, GA

Hawaii

Laie, HI

Idaho

Boise, ID Coeur d ‘Alene, ID Idaho Falls, ID Lewiston, ID Moscow, ID Nampa, ID Rexburg, ID

Twin Falls, ID

Illinois

Carbondale, IL Carterville, IL Champaign, IL Decatur, IL Edwardsville, IL Glen Ellyn, IL Joliet, IL Malta, IL

Normal, IL Peoria, IL Schaumburg, IL Springfield, IL University Park, IL

Indiana

Bloomington, IN Columbus, IN

Evansville, IN

Fort Wayne, IN Gary, IN

Indianapolis, IN Kokomo, IN

Lafayette, IN

Lawrenceburg, IN

Madison, IN

Muncie, IN

New Albany, IN Richmond, IN Sellersburg, IN South Bend, IN Terre Haute, IN

Iowa

Ames, IA

Cedar Rapids, IA

Iowa City, IA Ottumwa, IA Sioux City, IA Waterloo, IA

Kansas Kansas City, KS

Lawrence, KS

Manhattan, KS

Wichita, KS

Kentucky Ashland, KY Bowling Green, KY Erlanger, KY Highland Heights, KY

Louisville, KY

Morehead, KY

Louisiana

Bossier City, LA Lafayette, LA

Monroe, LA

Natchitoches, LA

New Orleans, LA

Shreveport, LA

Thibodaux, LA

Maryland

Arnold, MD

Bel Air, MD College Park, MD Frederick, MD

Hagerstown, MD

La Plata, MD Westminster, MD Woodlawn, MD

Wye Mills, MD

Massachusetts

Boston, MA Bridgewater, MA

Danvers, MA Haverhill, MA Holyoke, MA Shrewsbury, MA

Michigan Ann Arbor, MI

Big Rapids, MI Chesterfield, MI Dearborn, MI

Dowagiac, MI

East Lansing, MI Flint, MI

Grand Rapids, MI

Kalamazoo, MI Lansing, MI

Livonia, MI

Mount Pleasant, MI Sault Ste. Marie, M Troy, MI

University Center, MI Warren, MI

Minnesota Alexandria, MN Brooklyn Park, MN

Duluth, MN

Eden Prairie, MN Granite Falls, MN Mankato, MN

Mississippi

Goodman, MS

Jackson, MS

Mississippi State, MS Raymond, MS University, MS Missouri

Berkley, MO Cape Girardeau, MO Columbia, MO

Cottleville, MO Joplin, MO

Kansas City, MO Kirksville, MO Park Hills, MO

Poplar Bluff, MO

Rolla, MO

Sedalia, MO Springfield, MO

St. Joseph, MO

St. Louis, MO

Warrensburg, MO

Montana

Bozeman, MT Missoula, MT

New Mexico Albuquerque, NM Clovis, NM Farmington, NM Portales, NM Santa Fe, NM New York Alfred, NY Brooklyn, NY Buffalo, NY Garden City, NY New York, NY Rochester, NY Syracuse, NY

North Carolina Apex, NC Asheville, NC Boone, NC Charlotte, NC China Grove, NC Durham, NC Fayetteville, NC Greenville, NC Jamestown, NC Misenheimer, NC Mount Airy, NC Pembroke, NC Raleigh, NC Wilmington, NC

North Dakota Bismarck, ND Ohio Akron, OH Cincinnati, OH Cleveland, OH Columbus, OH Fairfield, OH Findlay, OH Kirtland, OH Lima, OH Maumee, OH Newark, OH North Royalton, OH Rio Grande, OH Toledo, OH Warren, OH Youngstown, OH Oklahoma Altus, OK Bethany, OK Edmond, OK Norman, OK Oklahoma City, OK Tonkawa, OK Tulsa, OK Oregon Bend, OR Coos Bay, OR Eugene, OR Gresham, OR Klamath Falls, OR Medford, OR Oregon City, OR Portland, OR White City, OR

Pennsylvania Bloomsburg, PA Blue Bell, PA Gettysburg, PA Harrisburg, PA Lancaster, PA Newtown, PA Philadelphia, PA Pittsburgh, PA Wilkes-Barre, PA York, PA

Tennessee

Blountville, TN Clarksville, TN Collegedale, TN Gallatin, TN Johnson City, TN Knoxville, TN Memphis, TN Morristown, TN Murfreesboro, TN Nashville, TN

Texas

Abilene, TX Arlington, TX Austin, TX Beaumont, TX Brownsville, TX Commerce, TX Corpus Christi, TX Dallas, TX Denison, TX El Paso, TX Houston, TX Huntsville, TX Laredo, TX Lubbock, TX Lufkin, TX

Mesquite, TX San Antonio, TX Victoria, TX

Waxahachie, TX Weatherford, TX

Wichita Falls, TX

Utah

Cedar City, UT Kaysville, UT Logan, UT Ogden, UT Orem, UT

Salt Lake City, UT

Virginia

Daleville, VA

Fredericksburg, VA

Lynchburg, VA

Manassas, VA

Norfolk, VA

Roanoke, VA

Salem, VA Staunton, VA

Suffolk, VA

Virginia Beach, VA

Wytheville, VA

Washington Auburn, WA

Bellingham, WA

Bremerton, WA

Ellensburg, WA Ephrata, WA

Olympia, WA

Pasco, WA

Rockingham, WA

Seattle, WA

Shoreline, WA

Spokane, WA

West Virginia

Ona, WV

Wisconsin

La Crosse, WI

Milwaukee, WI

Mukwonago, WI

Wyoming

Casper, WY

Laramie, WY Torrington, WY

CANADA

Alberta

New Jersey

Tampa, FL West Palm Beach, FL Wildwood, FL Winter Haven, FL

South Carolina Beaufort, SC Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Conway, SC Graniteville, SC Greenville, SC Greenwood, SC Orangeburg, SC Rock Hill, SC Spartanburg, SC

British Columbia

Abbotsford, BC

Burnaby, BC Castlegar, BC Delta, BC

Kamloops, BC Nanaimo, BC

Prince George, BC Richmond, BC Surrey, BC

Vancouver, BC Victoria, BC

Manitoba

Brandon, MB

Winnipeg, MB

New Brunswick

Bathurst, NB

Moncton, NB

Newfoundland and Labrador St. John’s, NL

Nova Scotia Halifax, NS

Ontario Brockville, ON Hamilton, ON London, ON

Milton, ON

Mississauga, ON Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

North Bay, ON

North York, ON Ottawa, ON Toronto, ON

Welland, ON Windsor, ON

Quebec

Côte Saint-Luc, QB Montreal, QB

Saskatchewan

Melfort, SK Moose Jaw, SK

Nipawin, SK Prince Albert, SK Saskatoon, SK

Yukon Territory

Whitehorse, YU

UNITED KINGDOM

Elgin, UK

GHAZNI

Kingdom of Bahrain, GHA

Thomasville, GHA

EGYPT Cairo, EG

JORDAN

Amman, JOR

NEW ZEALAND

Taradale, NZ

Calgary, AB

Edmonton, AB

Fort McMurray, AB

Lethbridge, AB

Lloydminster, AB Olds, AB Red Deer, AB

18 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G
JOB PERFORMANCE TEST LOCATIONS
Orlando, FL Panama City, FL Pembroke Pines, FL Pensacola, FL Plant City, FL Riviera Beach, FL Sanford, FL Tallahassee, FL
Nebraska Lincoln, NE North Platte, NE Omaha, NE
Nevada Henderson, NV Las Vegas, NV North Las Vegas, NV
Winnemucca, NV
Branchburg, NJ Cherry Hill, NJ Lincroft, NJ
Sewell, NJ Toms River, NJ West Windsor, NJ
IFPS UPDATE
»

AVAILABLE IFPS CERTIFICATIONS

CFPAI Certified Fluid Power Accredited Instructor

CFPAJPP Certified Fluid Power Authorized Job Performance Proctor

CFPAJPPCC Certified Fluid Power Authorized Job Performance Proctor Connector & Conductor

CFPE Certified Fluid Power Engineer

CFPS Certified Fluid Power Specialist (Must Obtain CFPHS & CFPPS)

CFPHS Certified Fluid Power Hydraulic Specialist

CFPPS Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Specialist

CFPECS Certified Fluid Power Electronic Controls Specialist

CFPMT Certified Fluid Power Master Technician (Must Obtain CFPIHT, CFPMHT, & CFPPT)

CFPIHT Certified Fluid Power Industrial Hydraulic Technician

CFPMHT Certified Fluid Power Mobile Hydraulic Technician

CFPPT Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Technician

CFPMM Certified Fluid Power Master Mechanic (Must Obtain CFPIHM, CFPMHM, & CFPPM)

CFPIHM Certified Fluid Power Industrial Hydraulic Mechanic

CFPMHM Certified Fluid Power Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic

CFPPM Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Mechanic

CFPMIH Certified Fluid Power Master of Industrial Hydraulics (Must Obtain CFPIHM, CFPIHT, & CFPCC)

CFPMMH Certified Fluid Power Master of Mobile Hydraulics (Must Obtain CFPMHM, CFPMHT, & CFPCC)

CFPMIP Certified Fluid Power Master of Industrial Pneumatics (Must Obtain CFPPM, CFPPT, & CFPCC)

CFPCC Certified Fluid Power Connector & Conductor

CFPSD Fluid Power System Designer

Tentative Certification Review Training

IFPS offers onsite review training for small groups of at least 10 persons. An IFPS accredited instructor visits your company to conduct the review. Contact kpollander@ifps.org for details of the scheduled onsite reviews listed below.

HYDRAULIC SPECIALIST

2024 certification review training dates will be announced soon.

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org)

ELECTRONIC CONTROLS SPECIALIST

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

For dates, call CFC Industrial Training at (513) 874-3225 or visit www.cfcindustrialtraining.com.

PNEUMATIC SPECIALIST

2024 certification review training dates will be announced soon.

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org)

CONNECTOR & CONDUCTOR

2024 certification review training dates will be announced soon.

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

MOBILE HYDRAULIC MECHANIC

2024 certification review training dates will be announced soon.

For custom training IFPS inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org)

Online Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic certification review for written test is offered through CFC Industrial Training. This course surveys the MHM Study Manual (6.5 hours) and every outcome to prepare you for the written test. Members may e-mail for a 20% coupon code off the list price. Test fees are not included.

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC MECHANIC

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

For dates, call CFC Industrial Training at (513) 874-3225 or visit www.cfcindustrialtraining.com.

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC TECHNICIAN

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

For dates, call CFC Industrial Training at (513) 874-3225 or visit www.cfcindustrialtraining.com.

MOBILE HYDRAULIC TECHNICIAN

2024 certification review training dates will be announced soon. For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

PNEUMATIC TECHNICIAN & PNEUMATIC MECHANIC

For custom IFPS training inquiries, please contact Bj Wagner (bwagner@ifps.org).

For dates, call CFC Industrial Training at (513) 874-3225 or visit www.cfcindustrialtraining.com.

WWW.IFPS.O r G | WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM March 2024 | 19 IFPS UPDATE
»

CALCULATING INTENSIFIER RATIO FOR GIVEN PRESSURE AND FLOW

Intensifiers boost pressure by pumping hydraulic fluid with a larger bore piston into a smaller bore cylinder to extend the rod. The intensifier can be powered using either air or hydraulics.

Air over oil hydraulic intensifiers convert a high volume, low-pressure air input source to a low volume, high-pressure source of hydraulic fluid. Intensifiers are used for hydraulic presses, hose crimpers, and flaring tools in shops where the cost of a hydraulic pressure source would be prohibitive. Where an intensifier is used to intensify the pressure, the degree of intensification is equal to the ratio of the larger area to the smaller area.

The flow rate at the output of the intensifier will be the inverse ratio of the areas of the pistons. An input piston with an area of 4 units and an output piston area of 0.5 units would have a ratio of 8:1. The output flow would be 1/8 that of the input flow.

The circuit shown in Fig. 3-36 illustrates a two pressure booster system with oil returns for low and high-pressure oil sources. Valve A is actuated to extend and retract the press cylinder at the bottom of the circuit, while Valve B is used to actuate the high-pressure booster piston. The degree of intensification equals the ratio of the areas of the larger booster piston to the area of the smaller booster piston.

To determine the intensified pressure use:

Eq. 3.22 po = pi × A1 A2

Hydraulic Intensifier Equation Variables

po = Pressure out pi = Pressure in A1 = Area of large piston

A2 = Area of small piston

U.S. Customary out(psi) = in(psi) × large area (in2) small area (in2)

Metric (bar) out(bar) = in(bar) × large area (mm2) small area (mm2)

Metric (MPa) out(MPa) = in(MPa) × large area (mm2) small area (mm2)

To calculate the reduced output flow from an intensifier, it is necessary to multiply the input flow by the area ratio of the small piston to large piston, as described in the text above. •

TEST YOUR SKILLS

1. A 250 mm bore hydraulic cylinder operates a press and develops a force of 900 kN. The fixed displacement hydraulic pump advances the cylinder. At 1.4 MPa a sequence valve opens to provide flow to a hydraulically powered intensifier which boosts the pressure to the cylinder. The bore size of the intensifier output piston is 12 mm and the bore size of the intensifier’s input piston is 40 mm. At what pressure should the hydraulic pressure relief valve be set in order to achieve the correct output pressure from the intensifier?

A. 0.02 MPa.

B. 0.54 MPa.

C. 1.6 MPa.

D. 14.4 MPa.

E. 18.3 MPa.

See page 24 for the solution.

WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G TEST YOUR SKILLS
Air Air Oil Oil Approach Tank Return Tank A B High PressureBooster Press Cylinder Fig. 3-36 Intensifier System with an Air-Oil Return Tank

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WWW.IFPS.O r G | WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM March 2024 | 23 SPECIAL AD SECTION
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24 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G SPECIAL AD SECTION
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WWW.IFPS.O r G | WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM March 2024 | 25 SPECIAL AD SECTION
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Beyond ViScOsITY

Balancing Performance in Modern Hydraulic Fluid Formulations

Hydraulic fluid is essential for the proper functioning of mobile and industrial equipment around the world. The right fluid can better enable hydraulic machines to function as intended, with precision, optimal efficiency, and lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for operators.

However, not all hydraulic fluids are created equal. There are many factors to consider when formulating or selecting an optimal hydraulic fluid for any given fluid power application. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end users alike depend on high-performance fluids to help maximize machine performance, requiring fluids to deliver on the needs of a variety of different applications. Meanwhile, a working understanding of the characteristics that make up a high-performance fluid can empower end users to make the right choice for their needs every time.

So, what goes into a high-performance hydraulic fluid? It’s not uncommon for end users to focus on the viscosity index (VI) as the key performance indicator while selecting a hydraulic fluid. But the truth is that high performance goes far beyond just VI, and understanding the performance attributes of hydraulic fluids can be beneficial for OEMs, fluid marketers, and end users alike. This article will examine the required performance characteristics of modern, high-performance fluids and how they can help optimize today’s hydraulic equipment.

VISCOSITY

A Breakdown

Viscosity is an important characteristic of a hydraulic fluid and is a fluid’s resistance to flow. It is important to follow the OEM

Viscosity is not the only important factor to consider when either formulating or choosing a fluid for your hydraulic application. This article will examine the impact of viscosity on efficiency and machine performance, as well as many other factors that make up a high-performance hydraulic fluid.

viscosity recommendation when selecting the hydraulic fluid for optimum performance.

Hydraulic fluids are commonly available in a wide variety of viscosity grades, in both monograde and multigrade options. Multigrade hydraulic fluids are formulated with special performance polymers called viscosity modifiers (VM). Multigrade fluids allow equipment to operate under wider operating temperatures and have higher VI than monograde fluids. While monograde fluids make up the majority of the hydraulic fluids in the marketplace, end users are increasingly adopting multigrade fluids for performance benefits.

Selection of the type of VM is paramount to have the optimum performance and high efficiency. But it’s important to understand the different ways in which viscosity impacts operational efficiency, which can be broken down into two categories:

Mechanical efficiency is inversely proportional to the viscosity of the fluid. For example, a very high-viscosity fluid can contribute to higher levels of friction and poor flow, leading to sluggish machine operation. By contrast, optimal viscosity as recommended by the OEM can help decrease friction and improve flow, enabling more accurate and efficient operation.

Volumetric efficiency is directly proportional to the viscosity of the fluid. Volumetric efficiency decreases as fluid viscosity drops at higher temperatures. Additionally, a fluid that is too thin may leak through seals, creating excess waste and a greater potential for wear on parts.

These factors demonstrate the importance of fluid selection to improve total system efficiency and the need to have a balance in fluid formulation, which can be achieved by utilizing the right VM. It is important to note that not all VMs are created equal. Shear stability is a key property used by formulators to select the right VMs as fluids formulated with shear-stable VMs offer durability, machine uptime, and peace of mind. Additionally, in-service hydraulic fluids must retain optimum viscosity under a wide operating temperature window to show consistent performance.

BEYOND VISCOSITY

Equally Important Performance Characteristics

VI of a fluid is a unitless measure of the change in viscosity with temperature. Higher VI fluids show minimal change in viscosity with temperature and vice versa. High VI hydraulic fluids are often considered to be more efficient and overall higher performing compared to their lower VI counterparts. However, VI alone can’t predict the performance or operating efficiency of a hydraulic fluid; there are other critical properties listed below that need to be considered as well.

Wear Resistance. Antiwear components present in hydraulic fluids form a protective film on metal surfaces to prevent wear. Strong wear resistance is essential to maintain the durability of parts and extend the life of the equipment.

Oxidation stability. High-performing hydraulic fluids are formulated with antioxidants that can withstand chemical reactions induced by heat in the presence of oxygen.

Hydraulic fluids with outstanding oxidation stability can increase the in-service life of the fluid and thereby reduce the TCO.

Thermal stability. Thermal stability is a fluid’s ability to resist breakdown when exposed to elevated temperatures for an extended period. Poor thermal stability can result in accelerated decomposition of additive components leading to sludge and varnish formation, which can clog filters, disrupt fluid flow, and increase downtime. High-performing fluids are typically formulated to show high degrees of thermal stability.

Hydrolytic stability. One of the most common contaminants in hydraulic equipment is water. Acids can form when hydraulic fluid is exposed to water, leading to rust and corrosion as well as sludge formation – all of which can be damaging for the hydraulic equipment. Hydraulic fluids with exceptional hydraulic stability can withstand such hydrolysis and increase uptime by protecting the equipment.

Demulsibility. Water entering the hydraulic system needs to be separated and drained out for the optimal performance of the system. High-performing hydraulic fluids are formulated with special additives called demulsifiers that can facilitate the separation of water and keep the fluid emulsion-free. Rust and corrosion protection. As mentioned before, water ingress into a hydraulic system can lead to rust and corrosion over time. Hydraulic fluids need to be formulated with additives to prevent rust and corrosion to ensure the protection of the parts.

Foam inhibition. Entrained air entering the circuit through the reservoir or air leaks within the system can lead to foaming. Fluids under high pressure may contain larger volumes of dispersed air bubbles, which expand and produce foam once the system is depressurized. Because foam is highly compressible, it can seriously affect the operation and lubrication of machinery, making foam inhibitors a key component of the formulation.

Compressibility. The compressibility of a hydraulic fluid is the measure of volume reduction under pressure. Typically, hydraulic fluids are incompressible, however, slight volume reductions can occur under higher pressures. In high-pressure systems, compressibility increases with pressure and temperature and can lead

to servo valve failure, efficiency loss, and cavitation—problems that can eventually lead to machine failure and downtime. Therefore, hydraulic fluids need to have low compressibility.

Filterability. Filtration systems in any hydraulic equipment play a crucial role in maintaining uptime by filtering contaminants and keeping the system clean. Water ingress can lead to sludge formation which in effect can block filters and prevent the system from performing optimally. Hydraulic fluids need to be formulated to keep the filtration system clean allowing seamless performance of critical system components.

Elastomer (Seal) compatibility. Most hydraulic systems utilize different types of elastomers specified by the OEMs that help minimize or prevent fluid leakage. Hydraulic fluids that are not compatible with elastomers can end up swelling the seals preventing proper functioning of the equipment. Additionally, seals may undergo chemical reactions under higher temperatures leading to leaks. To prevent

this, high-performing hydraulic fluids should be formulated to be compatible with different types of elastomer materials as guided by the OEM specifications.

A high-performance hydraulic fluid balances all these properties along with the desired VI to offer the optimum performance to reduce downtime and TCO.

As we’ve explored, there is a wide variety of performance characteristics that modern hydraulic fluids must provide to enable today’s equipment to meet its full potential. And of course, balanced viscosity properties remain a necessary contribution to optimal machine performance.

To deliver on these needs, hydraulic fluid marketers must select the right additive chemistry for balanced performance, and the right additive partner can help you do that. For end users, a working understanding of these characteristics can help you better select high-performance hydraulic fluids to help enhance your operations, minimize downtime, and lower the total cost of ownership for your critical machines. •

Precision. Accuracy. Resolution. Max Machinery, Inc. | www.maxmachinery.com | 707.433.2662 Liquid Measurement in High Resolution

Mobile Machines for Every Job

Unveiling Bosch Rexroth's Latest EDH Compact Directional Valve

Mobile machines serve every function in construction, agriculture, material handling and more. These machines come in all sizes. Every niche has a versatile solution tailored exclusively for work to be done. The hydraulics at the heart of these machines are also designed and built to match the flow demands and duty cycle of the application. This targeted approach helps keep cost down, and the use of higher pressure components and smaller actuators reduce weight which saves energy.

Bosch Rexroth offers a very wide array of components to fit every size and duty cycle. Current market trends are driving the demand for compact and powerful solutions for mobile machines: Increasingly complex machine designs, as well as diverse functions and applications, pose a variety of challenges for mobile machine manufacturers. In the line of Compact Directional Valves, we are offering a

new frame size for flows up to 100 lpm (26 gpm) and working pressures up to 35 MPa (5075 psi). The EDH's flow capacity ensures that machines can handle heavy-duty applications with ease. This increases productivity and reduces cycle times in critical mobile machines, but also in industrial applications.

New EDH 100 lpm Compact Directional Valve

The new EDH product is a complement to the EDG line which provides flows up to 60 lpm (16 gpm). The new higher flow capacity opens up the Compact Directional Valves (CDV) line to a much broader range of machines. You can apply CDV products on mobile equipment such as agricultural machines, truck-mounted cranes, aerial work platforms, drilling machines and municipal vehicles.

Modular, Versatile, Compatible

The EDH features a modular design that seamlessly integrates with Bosch Rexroth’s Compact Directional Valves. It includes compatibility with the new-generation pre-compensated EDG valves and enables customized solutions tailored to meet individual customer requirements. With its compactness and power density the EDH sets new standards. At the same time, it offers maximum flexibility and adaptability to control diverse machine functions. For example, when flow needs vary by function, you can combine the flange-compatible EDG and EDH products together in one mobile solution. With adaptors, the EDH and EDG products can also integrate with other Bosch Rexroth directional controls or even custom hydraulic integrated circuits (HICs).

The new EDH compact directional valve is a pre-compensated directional control flow control that is flexible and extensible. The basic EDH can serve as a pressure compensated on/off or proportional directional control. An extended body will be available that accommodates work port pressure relief and load holding valves. A manual operator will also be offered along with 12 V and 24 V actuators for electrohydraulic control with emergency override, or two-station operation.

A handy feature for machines like truckmounted cranes or rear-loading refuse trucks.

Space and Energy Savings

With the need to fit more functionality into compact machines, installation space is scarce. EDH is the most compact solution available in this flow/pressure range, and that is a great value on small and medium size machines. By effectively using limited space, OEMs can enhance efficiency and realize the full potential of their machines. With 35 MPa (5075 psi) working pressure, this product also offers excellent power density and energy saving potential.

Common Platform, Many Options

Being a common platform with the EDG range of 60 lpm (16 gpm) compact directional valves, they share many of the configurations and options. Basic configurations include direct-acting on/off (DO), direct-acting proportional (DP), and piloted proportional (PP). Versatile options include integrated LS relief valves, anti-cavitation valves, load holding PO checks, counterbalance valves, LS cutoff for safety interlock, and proportional LS relief option for force control, or torque control of rotating actuators.

The EDH Compact Directional Valve provides companies with diverse possibilities to tailor hydraulic systems to specific application needs. Precise engineering and durable construction provide high reliability, reduce maintenance costs and minimize downtime.•

28 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G
a DVE r TO r I a L
Flange compatible EDH and EDG products integrate to form a mobile solution with 60 and 100 lpm (16 and 26 gpm) working sections. Modular EDH-PP with LS relief and anti-cavitation valves. Senior Technical Writer, / Bosch Rexroth Compact Hydraulics

THE HARDEST WORKING MACHINES HYDRAFORCE. RELY ON

What are your machine challenges? You’ll find the answers with HydraForce –the world leader in precision hydraulic motion controls for mobile and industrial applications. Partnering with HydraForce, you’ll have access to unmatched engineering expertise; the industry’s broadest range of cartridge valves; custom integrated-circuit manifolds, and best-in-class remote-management solutions. Now you have the power to build a better machine. Visit HydraForce.com

© 2024 HydraForce, Inc.
More information

Ashcroft® S1 OEM Pressure Transducer: High Quality, Economical and Built to Last

Get reliable pressure measurements for demanding OEM applications. The Ashcroft® S1 OEM pressure transducer is a high-quality, cost effective option, constructed for high-volume manufacturing and quick lead times for OEMs. Designed to meet the requirements of mobile hydraulic, off-road vehicle, construction equipment, performance racing, agriculture, and refrigeration applications, the S1 offers:

• Reliability: Field-proven, all stainless-steel thin film Chemical Vapor Disposition (CVD) based sensor technology for exceptional cycle life and repeatability with pressure ranges spanning from vacuum up to 10,000 psi.

• High vibration and shock resistance: Added vibration-resistant technology includes a cushioning media applied to wire bonds and points susceptible to high vibration for increased protection.

• High EMI/RFI immunity: Minimizes the effect of both electromagnetic and radio frequency interference, providing a more stable and accurate output when subjected to these interferences.

• TruAccuracy™ performance: Ensures rated accuracy out of the box, so it’s ready for installation with no additional calibration adjustments required.

• Protection: IP65 or IP67 levels of ingress protection (depending on electrical connection used) and the ability to operate in temperatures from -40 °F to 257 °F (-40 °C to 125 °C).

• Flexible construction: Wide range of process and electrical connections, outputs and pressure ranges along with fitting materials for your needs.

Contact Ashcroft for all your pressure and temperature measurement needs.

250 East Main Street Stratford, CT 06614 1-800-328-8258 ashcroft.com

The flange connector you need – quick as 1, 2, 3 Why use MAIN MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS?

1

QUICK: MAIN has a large and diverse inventory, including specials for same day shipping. MAIN’s US production facility, specialized manufacturing processes, and large raw material inventory allow your custom non-stock parts to be shipped in days.

2 INFORMED: MAIN’s engineers are active on ISO and SAE committees. They are available to assist you with your flange needs, call 800.521.7918, e-mail to info@MAINmfg.com or fax 810.953.1385.

3 DEPENDABLE: MAIN has 60 years of experience in designing, developing, manufacturing and distributing quality hydraulic flanges and components.

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30 | March 2024 WWW.FLUIDPOWE r JOU r N a L.c OM | WWW.IFPS.O r G SPECIAL AD SECTION COMPONENT SHOWCASE

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» Deliver your ad to consumers who are reading online content that includes your type of product or service.

» Deliver your ad to potential customers who are searching for your products and services online. We also offer Social Media and video options.

» Boost your print ad response in Fluid Power Journal by up to 400%.

» Drive more relevant traffic to your website by targeting people based on their specific online behavior.

REACH THE RIGHT CUSTOMERS WITH GEO-TARGETING

» ALL CAMPAIGNS ARE geo-targeted, ensuring that we only share your ad with potential customers in your defined service area. Reach out to people who have attended trade shows and conferences.

» Strengthen your brand and target more potential customers to search for your business online.

» Deliver your ad to potential customers within your service area who use laptops, desktops, tablets, and mobile devices.

» Have visitors stay longer and view more pages on your website.

3245 Freemansburg Ave, Palmer PA 18045 | Phone:
| Fax:
| www.fluidpowerjournal.com
800.730.5904, 610.923.0380
610.923.0390

Lubriplate’s complete line of ultra high-performance, hydraulic fluids has been designed to provide a wide range of benefits including: extended fluid change intervals, cooler operating temperatures, reduced friction and reduced downtime. Products include...

SYN LUBE SERIES 32-68 100%

•High-Performance, 100% Synthetic, Polyalphaolefin (PAO)-Based Fluids.

•Provides extended drain inter vals and excellent compatibility with seals.

• Available in ISO Viscosity Grades 32, 46 and 68.

HO SERIES HYDRAULIC OILS PETROLEUM

•Premium-Quality, Petroleum-Based Hydraulic Oils (ISO Grades 32-100).

• Anti-wear fortified to protect hydraulic system components.

•High aniline points ensure long seal life with fewer leaks.

SFGO ULTRA SERIES 7-68 NSF H1

SYNTHETIC PAO-BASED OILBASED REGISTERED FOOD GRADE

•NSF H1 Registered and NSF ISO 21469 Certified - Food Machinery Grade.

•High Performance, 100% Synthetic Food Machinery Grade Fluids.

• Available in ISO Viscosity Grades 7, 15, 22, 32, 46 and 68.

•Fortified with Lubriplate’s proprietar y anti-wear additive

SYNXTREME FRH1-46

FM APPROVED FIRE RESISTANT NSF H1 REGISTERED FOOD GRADE

•High-Performance, FM Approved, Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid.

•NSF H1 Registered and NSF ISO 21469 Certified - Food Machinery Grade.

•ECO-Friendly, Readily Biodegradable (OECD 301F).

•Fortified with Lubriplate’s proprietar y anti-wear additive

ZF SERIES HYDRAULIC FLUIDS ECO

ZINC-FREE

•Hea vy-Duty, High-Performance, Extended Life, Hydraulic Fluids.

•ECO-Friendly - Free of zinc or silicone compounds.

•Provides long ser vice life and extended fluid change intervals.

BIO-BASED GREEN SERIES ECO

FRIENDLY BIO-BASED

• Vegetable-Based Oils for use in environmentally sensitive applications.

•ECO-Friendly - Ultimately Biodegradable (Pw1).

•Zinc-free additives provide exceptional anti-wear and anti-rust protection.

MARINE SAFE SERIES ECO

FRIENDLY, NON-TOXIC TO AQUATIC LIFE (LC-50)

•For equipment operating in environmentally sensitive locations.

•Zinc-free and non-toxic to aqua tic life.

•Exceeds U.S. EPA LC50 and US Fish and Wildlife requirements.

•Meets or exceeds the requirements of most hydraulic equipment

BIO-SYNXTREME HF SERIES ECO

FRIENDLY - MEETS VGP REQUIREMENTS

• Advanced Synthetic Polyalkylene Glycol (PAG)-based hydraulic fluids.

•Designed for environmentally sensitive industrial and marine applications.

• Meets U.S. EPA Vessel General Permit (VGP) Requirements. Readily biodegradable.

•Does not leave a sheen on the water.

See

Newark, NJ 07105 / Toledo, OH 43605 / 800-733-4755 To learn more visit us at: www.lubriplate.com ES P Lubriplate’s Complimentary Extra Services Package COLOR CODED LUBE CHARTS & MACHINERY TAGS PLANT SURVEYS / TECH SUPPORT / TRAINING LUBRICATION SOFTWARE / FOLLOW-UP OIL ANALYSIS LUBRICANTS HYDRAULIC FLUIDS WITH THE POWER TO PROTECT VGP COMPLIANCE STATEMENT - LUBRIPLATE BIO-SYNXTREME HF Series Hydraulic Fluids are Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) according to the definitions and requirements of the US EPA 2013 Vessel General Permit, as described in VGP Section 2.2.9
the NSF White Book™ for a complete list of registered / ISO21469 certified products.
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