The largest sector of fluid power technology is in mobile equipment used in agriculture, construction, mining, rail maintenance, firefighting and waste management. The principles of hydraulics have been driving heavy equipment for 140 years. The very first excavator to use hydraulic technology was built in 1882 by Sir W. G. Armstrong & Company in England, where it was used in construction of the Hull docks. Unlike today's excavators that use hydraulic fluid, Armstrong’s system used water to essentially follow the principles of current hydraulic systems.

Metric thread hydraulic fittings are the most popular type of fluid connectors in the world. However, the term 'metric fitting” is loosely used to describe a number of fittings with foreign threads. DIN, BSP, JIS, Komatsu, Kobelco and of course metric are often lumped into the “metric” category, even though some are based on Imperial or “inch” dimensions. For instance, BSP have British Imperial threads, yet most sizes of BSPT (tapered) have direct metric equivalents. Unlike other Imperial threads, metric threads are measured by their pitch-- the distance from the crest of one thread to the crest of the next, where Imperial thread pitch is measured as a given number of teeth per inch. 

We all make mistakes, and most of us have had a part suddenly and unexpectedly pop off and go flying across the room — maybe missing our face by inches. Afterward, we usually say or think something like, “Whoa, I’ll never do that again.”

Mistakes made while working on a hydraulic system can have consequences far more serious than giving us a black eye or small cut. That’s why it is so important not only to receive proper training, but also to learn safe practices for working on hydraulic systems.

It’s no secret that hydraulics are all around us. This Thanksgiving, consider reflecting on how fluid power has helped bring your Thanksgiving dinner from the farm, through production and transportation, to your table.

Hose clamps are designed to secure the hose to the hydraulic fitting. It stabilizes the connection, which is why finding the correct size is essential. But before sizing a hose clamp, you need to ensure there will not be leakage or excessive pressure.

The environment can greatly impact the hydraulics industry due to temperature changes. This effect on the industry is not one to overlook, as it can cause system failure and much more.

Many are questioning where global manufacturing is headed. With ever-present changes due to continually evolving technology and supply chain disruptions, it is natural to have some concerns. 

Supply chain problems are increasing, creating a worry for manufacturers as new regulations emerge. The economic and political climate is causing problems with production forecasting and creating challenges with logistics. Higher manufacturing costs can drive up the prices of essential products and create shortages in availability.

We all know about using the STAMP (Size, Temperature, Application, Media, Pressure) method when choosing the right hydraulic hose fitting for your needs. We also know the goal is to have a leak-free connection that can handle the specific application. But what are the most popular fittings and why are they so common?

Which is a better hydraulic fitting, a JIC 37° flare or an O-ring face seal?

It’s like asking if a Mercedes-Maybach S is better than a Porsche 911 Turbo. They’re both over $200,000 with all the features, each gets lousy gas mileage and can go from zero to 60 mph in the blink of an eye. However, they each have different applications. The Maybach is a high-powered 4-door classic sedan, while the Porsche is a high-powered 2-door sports car. They both get you there fast-- but in one you arrive with class, the other you arrive in style. You can guess which is which.

Flanges are used in petrochemical, oil and gas, power generation and other industrial applications to connect pipes, valves and pumps. Pipe flanges connect piping systems and allow for efficient flow of liquids or gases. The proper selection, installation and alignment of flanges is critical in preventing leaks and damage to the system. Flanges, like most components, can be damaged due to poorly fitted gaskets, excessive vibration, corrosion or improper installation. Any of these factors can lead to serious system failure, causing thermal shock, excessive loads, stress shocks or stress cracking corrosion, resulting in excessive lateral or rotational flange misalignment. When performing maintenance, a previously assembled flanged joint can spring out of alignment in any direction around its circumference.

Brennan Industries announces the unveiling of a brand new facility in Walsall, located at 50, Wharf Approach in the heart of the West Midlands.