Fluid Power Forum

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Greg Shtrahman of Marzocchi Pumps about trends at iVT, including hybrid technology, electric drive systems, integration, and sensors, and how they can pair with hydraulic pumps. Shtrahman highlights Marzocchi's vertically integrated manufacturing of hydraulic gear pumps, gear motors, helical gear pumps, and micro pumps, emphasizing helical technology as a driver for electrification due to low noise (about 40 dB or less), dual compensation, low-RPM high-efficiency performance (90%+ volumetric efficiency), and new four-quadrant bidirectional capability. He explains how reversible helical pumps and motors with VFD control can reduce reliance on proportional valves and pressure-compensated piston pumps, with key off-highway applications such as battery-powered waste management trucks, mobile equipment, and material handling. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Greg Shtrahman, at gregs@marzocchipumpsusa.com. Learn more about Marzocchi Pumps at marzocchipompe.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

  At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Bruno Dupuis of Famic Technologies about innovations in electro-hydraulic systems and how new components can be modeled in Automation Studio to support digital twins. Dupuis explains that Famic has over 35 years of software development experience and showcases Automation Studio, a CAD and simulation platform for hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical, and automation. The software enables real-time system simulation and analysis of pressures, flows, temperature, voltage, current, and energy consumption for prototyping, training, and troubleshooting. He highlights Automation Studio version 10 features including a new 3D mechanism for simulating external forces on linear and rotary actuators, plus wire harness schematics and fluid connection diagrams, with more information and demos available at famictech.com. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Bruno Dupuis, at bdupuis@famictech.com. Learn more about Famic Technologies at famictech.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Host Eric Lanke interviews Jim Diehl and Chris Parisse of Bosch Rexroth about a decentralized hydraulic drive solution showcased in an animatronic dinosaur exhibit at the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.   Replacing an older gear-pump/servo-valve/PLC dinosaur, the new eight-foot "T‑Rexroth" uses four color-coded, interactive axes with visible components and lighting to teach hydraulics while operating quietly, compactly, and with easy maintenance. The system uses a CytroPac hydraulic power unit with variable-speed drive and individual motor-pump groups near each actuator to reduce noise, simplify architecture, and limit failure points. Advanced sensors, closed-loop motion control, and remote monitoring track pressures, temperature, strokes, and fluid cleanliness for reliability and troubleshooting.   They note broader applications in pressing and testing for quieter, energy-efficient, space-saving machines with improved repeatability in a digital age.   Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guests, Jim Diehl (Jim.Diehl@boschrexroth-us.com) and Chris Parisse (Chris.Parisse@us.bosch.com). See the Da Vinci Center Dinosaur in action here! Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #fluidpowerforum #dinosaurs #advancedsensors #childproof #onlyfluidpowercan

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, guest host Ben Brown interviews Scott Mason of FluiDyne Fluid Power about a busy show and the continued shift toward electrified hydraulics with precise electronic position and feedback control. Mason highlights FluiDyne's booth display of hydraulic components including piston, vane, and gear pumps, directional control valves, and hydraulic motors. He emphasizes FluiDyne's ability to respond quickly to customer needs by building required pump configurations from stocked parts, reducing typical 16–20 week lead times to turnaround in days, supported by friendly service. FluiDyne also offers just-in-time inventory, stocking ongoing customer products and acting as a dedicated warehouse to maintain availability for fast delivery. Listeners can learn more at fluidynefp.com. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Scott Mason, at scott@fluidynefp.com. Learn more about FluiDyne Fluid Power at fluidynefp.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Andy Gray of Scanreco about the show's value for targeted networking with customers and partners and the growing real-world implementation of AI, machine intelligence, operator interfaces, connectivity, and automation. Gray highlights Scanreco's radio remote control solutions, including the OneGrip single-handed pistol-grip handheld remote for applications like service cranes and agricultural seed tenders. He also discusses Scanreco's acquisition of Cross Control and its open software platform, emphasizing increasing demand for larger displays, multiple screens, centralized computing architectures, and software-defined vehicles that integrate onboard screens and controls with remote control systems. Listeners are directed to scanreco.com, crosscontrol.com, and LinkedIn for more information. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Andy Gray, at andy.gray@scanreco.com. Learn more about Scanreco at scanreco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Reinhold Herrman of IFP Motion Solutions about show growth and emerging technologies in electrification, sensors, controls, and AI for operator interfaces and autonomous machines. Herrman highlights IFP's exhibit, including a stock electrified ePTO system that lets diesel or gasoline trucks shut off on site while batteries power an electric motor-driven hydraulic pump to run cranes, buckets, and stabilizers, reducing idling, fuel and maintenance costs, with ROI under two years and automatic recharging while driving. He also describes AI vision systems that detect people and objects, assess fruit quality, and follow lines to improve productivity, safety, and efficiency while helping less-skilled operators perform at higher levels. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Reinhold Herrman, at rherrman@ifpusa.com. Learn more about IFP Motion Solutions at ifpusa.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, guest host Ben Brown interviews Rick Guidish of Vis Hydraulics about the show's strong traffic and productive conversations, and about innovations he's noticing, especially growing applications of artificial intelligence in products and processes. Guidish highlights Vis Hydraulics' continued expansion of its North American operation, including added assembly and test production in Franklin, Wisconsin, ongoing U.S. warehousing of Italy-made products, and the acquisition of Murphy Machine Products to produce valve components in-house and support shorter supply chains. He also discusses expanded proportional valve offerings and a new North America-specific solenoid valve family featuring a half-inch port tube (instead of the European 13 mm) to improve tubing interchangeability and fit current market demands. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Rick Guidish, at rick.guidish@vishydraulics.com, or (630) 334-9267. Learn more about Vis Hydraulics at vishydraulics.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, guest host Ben Brown interviews Carlos Villarreal of Fluid System Components about iVT and the company's exhibit. Villarreal highlights how electronics are increasingly integrated into hydraulics, with electrification influencing manifolds, pumps, and other components year over year. He explains that Fluid System Components, part of Summus Holding, provides fluid power, motion control, engineering, and system integration, supporting customers from individual components to engineered, integrated solutions. The booth showcases hydraulics, electronic controls, and engineered solutions, backed by an in-house engineering team that can build complete systems from manifolds and pumps through valving, joysticks, and HMI. He notes control options including Epic, Rexroth, and HYDAC, and directs listeners to fscinc.com for more information. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Carlos Villarreal, at clvillarreal@fscinc.com. Learn more about Fluid System Components at fscinc.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique app.lications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo in Chicago, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Tim Opperwall of Husco about the value of iVT for connecting customers, suppliers, and competitors, and what Husco is exhibiting at the show. Opperwall highlights Husco's GenSteer steer-by-wire technology, a CONEXPO Next Level Awards first-place winner, shown in a live demo with updates based on OEM and end-user feedback. GenSteer is positioned as a safer, simpler, more cost-feasible approach that uses operator energy as fail-functional backup in loss-of-power or controller scenarios, removes hydraulics from the cab, and enables compact, integrated steering architecture—"redundancy without replication." He also mentions Husco products including MX7 and M Series solenoids, and directs listeners to husco.com. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Tim Opperwall, at timothy.opperwall@husco.com. Learn more about Husco at husco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Ken Baker of Bailey International about trends and exhibits at iVT, noting the show's evolution from electronics toward full systems and a growing presence of hydraulics, valves, and subsystem valve suppliers. Baker highlights Bailey International's booth lineup, including standard controls, hydraulic products, and new closed-loop systems, plus an innovative software-driven concept joystick that provides haptic and mechanical feedback without fixed mechanical limits, enabling configurable detents and gearshift-like positions. He explains that advanced feedback can support functional safety by helping operators keep attention outside the cab while still receiving control cues. Listeners are directed to baileyintl.com and Bailey's sales and applications teams for technical support. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Ken Baker, at ken.baker@baileyhydraulics.com. Learn more about Bailey International at baileyintl.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 IVT Off-Highway Expo, guest host Ben Brown interviews James Oftelie of AM Tech LLC (Aeration Measurement Technologies) about exhibiting at IVT and the value of trade-show networking. Oftelie explains AM Tech's innovation for mobile hydraulics: a passive, acoustic sonar-based method that instruments a machine to quantify entrained air by listening to sound transmission in the suction line from reservoir to pump. By measuring changes in speed of sound attenuation and processing the signal with an algorithm, the system produces an aeration number to support hydraulic system design, troubleshooting, optimization, testing, and reservoir performance validation without adding hardware beyond standard transducers. He directs listeners to amtechllc.com and AM Tech's YouTube and Instagram for more information. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, James Oftelie, at james.oftelie@amtechllc.com. Learn more about Aeration Measurement Technologies at Aeration Measurement Technologies, LLC. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 IVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Luke Ferranti of CAPlugs about his first IVT experience and what the company is exhibiting for the off-highway hydraulics market. Ferranti highlights IVT's mix of heavy equipment and technology advances, including joystick control applications relevant to product protection. CAPlugs showcases its hose protection solutions, emphasizing installation efficiency through options like pre-cut segments and a bundler tool for wrapping. He also discusses customization features such as different colors and sleeve markings to support end-user needs. Listeners are directed to connect via LinkedIn, follow CAPlugs on LinkedIn, and visit caplugs.com for literature, the full catalog, and custom work details. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Luke Ferranti, at luke.ferranti@caplugs.com. Learn more about CAPlugs at caplugs.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

In this Fluid Power Forum episode, host Eric Lanke interviews Trevor Combs, global technical manager for off-highway at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, about preventing external hydraulic leakage in linear rod applications using a system-level approach emphasized in NFPA's whitepaper "Preventing Leaks in Fluid Power Systems."   Combs explains how leakage is driven by interactions among the counter surface (rod substrate, coating, and surface finish), the hydraulic fluid (viscosity index, temperature range, cleanliness/contamination control, lubrication), and the seal system (geometry, materials, and multiple components like primary/secondary seals, wear rings, and wipers). He discusses balancing lubrication film versus leak prevention across extension and retraction strokes, key variables such as pressure, speed, duty cycle, and surface roughness beyond Ra, and innovations including back-pumping seals, pressure-relief buffer seals with integrated check valves, and venting wipers.   Future focus areas include surface treatments, moving away from chrome, PFAS-free materials, compatibility with sustainable fluids, and predictive maintenance using customer data.   Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Read the full whitepaper at the NFPA Technology Reports website.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Trevor Combs, at trevor.combs@trelleborg.com.   Learn more about Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, here.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #Seals #SurfaceFinishes #Engineering #FluidPowerTechnology

Host Eric Lanke commemorates the 10-year anniversary of NFPA's Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, where university teams simulate, design, build, test, and race hydraulics- and pneumatics-powered vehicles, judged on efficiency, speed/acceleration, regenerative braking, and sustained performance; the program hit a record 32 participating universities.   Guests Dr. Jake Swanson (Minnesota State University, Mankato), Dr. Brian Steward (Iowa State University), and longtime technical liaison Ernie Parker (recently retired from Hennepin Technical College) discuss how the competition's resources and industry mentoring support student learning, how the challenge has scaled to multiple sites and improved rules over time, and common hurdles such as design, component sizing, ordering and time management, and limited hands-on shop skills. They share memorable competition moments and advise new teams to start early, ask mentors for help, and plan extra time for debugging, emphasizing workforce development and pathways into the fluid power industry. To get involved, contact Mary Pluta, at mpluta@nfpa.com. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with Ernie Parker, at ernieparker1@msn.com.   Connect with Dr. Brian Steward, at bsteward@iastate.edu.   Connect with Dr. Jake Swanson, at jacob.swanson@mnsu.edu.   Learn more about the Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, Hennepin Technical College, Iowa State University, and Minnesota State University, Mankato.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #WorkforceDevelopment #VehicleChallenge #Engineering #Education

Fluid Power Forum host Eric Lanke interviews Paul Michael, director of the Fluid Power Institute at Milwaukee School of Engineering, about NFPA's whitepaper "Preventing Leaks in Fluid Power Systems." Michael shares his background in lubricant formulation and hydraulic testing and describes MSOE's hands-on fluid power education. The discussion explains why leak prevention is critical to hydraulics because pressurized fluid stresses connectors, hoses, tubes, and seals, affecting reputation and sustainability.   A committee of about 25 contributors developed the report and conducted a voice-of-the-customer survey, with 75% reporting leakage problems tied to customer satisfaction, downtime, and warranty costs. Adapters and connectors were cited as the largest component-related leakage source, with 31 causes identified across design, installation, mounting, selection, and material compatibility. Michael emphasizes application-driven design to minimize maintenance, the importance of standards (including SAE hose and performance tests), and avoiding tapered pipe threads in favor of modern straight-thread and O-ring sealing approaches.   Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Read the full whitepaper at the NFPA Technology Reports website.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Paul Michael, at michael@msoe.edu.   Learn more about MSOE, at www.msoe.edu.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #Hydraulics #Sealing #LeakPrevention #Innovation #NFPAWhitepaper

Host Eric Lanke welcomes Ehren Polheber, corporate fluid power engineer at Scot Forge, to discuss how material science and selection affect hydraulic systems and fluid power component manufacturing. Polheber shares his 22-year fluid power background and 14-year tenure designing and troubleshooting large forging equipment, and explains that correct material grades and heat treatments are critical to avoid catastrophic failures under high loads while enabling lightweight designs in mobile equipment. He outlines a selection process based on applied loads, operating conditions (fatigue, temperature, corrosion), trade-offs (strength, machinability), and cost of ownership, noting that supplier-customer collaboration is essential. The episode compares casting and forging: castings offer near-net complex shapes at lower cost, while forgings reduce porosity and align grain flow for high-stress, mission-critical hydraulic applications. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Ehren Polheber, at epolheber@scotforge.com.   Learn more about the company at www.scotforge.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #EngineeringExcellence #SystemOptimization #MaterialScienceJourney

Host Eric Lanke interviews Barun Acharya, system engineering manager for electrification at Parker Hannifin, about energy efficiency gains from electrified hydraulics and insights tied to NFPA's white paper and a CONEXPO technology conference. Acharya describes how emissions rules, noise limits, and ESG mandates are driving electrification, and outlines key challenges including unclear duty cycles (addressed via energy mapping), power-density mismatch between hydraulic and electric actuators, complex system integration (CAN, software, EMC, operator feel), and revealed hydraulic noise once diesel is removed.   He explains that traditional inefficiency is largely the engine–pump coupling, while smart hybrid architectures use batteries to buffer transients and run engines near optimal BSFC. He details a hybrid backhoe case with engine downsizing and indoor electric operation, enabled by sensors, data, and machine-learning use for duty-cycle classification, predictive maintenance, and operator coaching. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Barun Acharya, at bacharya@parker.com.   Learn more about the company at www.parker.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #HybridArchitecture #Electrification

In this Fluid Power Forum episode, NFPA host Eric Lanke shares a recorded NFPA webinar on advancing technologies for controls, IoT, and data—featuring Scanreco Director of Sales Andy Gray.   Gray explains how Scanreco's professional radio remote controls serve OEMs and system integrators for mobile and industrial machinery in harsh environments, translating operator intent into hydraulic actuator motion from simple on/off to highly proportional control to improve safety, precision, and productivity. Discussion covers operating at safer distances, integrating camera feedback and Human Machine Interface, HMI, information onto remotes, and the growing role of assisted operation and autonomy across applications like agriculture, forklifts, drilling, demolition, forestry, and fire equipment.   Gray describes field research with operators, integration via CAN and software tools, OEM preference for open integration ecosystems, and progress to unify remote control, advanced displays, and onboard computing amid trends of digitalization, electrification, automation, and usability. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Andy Gray, at andy.gray@scanreco.com.   Learn more about the company at www.scanreco.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #Controls #Safety #Autonomy #CID

Host Eric Lanke welcomes Mitch Van Remortel, strategic channel manager at Charter Casting, to discuss material science innovations relevant to fluid power and why material selection affects total cost of ownership.   Van Remortel outlines his background and explains Charter Casting's focus on large, complex iron castings, emphasizing consistency, quality, and an engineering-led approach. He describes key material-selection factors—mechanical performance, manufacturability, and life-cycle performance—and notes that early material choices are hard to change later. He highlights cost drivers beyond raw material price, citing a frack pump conversion from low-carbon steel that saved about $200,000 annually and reduced weight by roughly 60,000 pounds.   The episode covers gray vs. ductile iron characteristics, system-level impacts like vibration damping in hydraulic cylinders, channel/distribution collaboration, and future trends including data-driven tools and AI in material evaluation. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Mitch Van Remortel, at vanremortelm@chartercasting.com.   Learn more about the company at www.chartercasting.com   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #Innovation #Engineering #MaterialSciences

Eric Lanke hosts Philippe Reynolds, director of Poclain Hydraulics' Electromobility program, in an NFPA Fluid Power Forum episode tied to the NFPA whitepaper "Energy Efficiency Gains from Electrified Hydraulics." Reynolds explains Poclain's shift from component supplier to system partner integrating hydraulics, electric drives, power electronics, sensors, and software into mechatronic solutions, including electric drive units like the eWheel for compact equipment. He outlines electrification challenges—system complexity, energy and thermal management, architecture selection (battery electric, hybrid electrohydraulic with energy recovery, and series hybrid for heavier machines), and the need for decentralized power-on-demand designs to boost efficiency. The discussion highlights duty-cycle-based sizing, liquid cooling to control operating conditions, lessons adapted from automotive and other industries, and the growing importance of functional safety, compliance, plug-and-play integration, and supplier–OEM partnerships. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Be sure to check out the full report here.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Philippe Reynolds, at philippe.reynolds@poclain.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification #SystemArchitectures

In this episode of the Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Andrew Johnson, co-founder of HeavyTech, about building affordable hybrid and electrified off-highway equipment from the ground up. Johnson shares his background in a family O-Ring distribution business and how NFPA connections provided a foundation for HeavyTech's mission. This company is developing original compact track loader, articulated loader, and mini excavator designs, with the first prototype – a diesel-electric hybrid compact track loader – about 80% complete and being build in Fort Wayne, Indiana using crowdfunding support. He highlights point-of-use electric hydraulic pumps, thermal management innovations, and an AI camera-based system to determine attachment position without traditional sensors, enabling operator assistance and potential automation. Johnson argues hybridization best balances energy efficiency, duty cycle, and competitive pricing for agriculture and construction users. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.   Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com.   Connect with our guest, Andrew Johnson, at andrew@shelfawarevmi.com.   Learn more about the company at heavytech.ai.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.   #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification #AgricultureTech

In this episode of Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Marcus Herrera, advanced systems application engineer at HYDAC, about the NFPA white paper, "Energy Efficiency Gains from Advanced Hydraulics," and what OEMs should consider when replacing internal combustion engines with batteries or fuel cells. Herrera explains why electrification brings uncertainty around performance, charging infrastructure, supply chain maturity, cost, and market acceptance, and why hydraulic efficiency becomes more critical when onboard energy is fixed and recharge times are long. Using the paper's efficiency comparisons, he notes that improving hydraulic efficiency can have more than double the impact on usable energy in electrified machines, affecting shift length and battery size. They discuss major loss sources such as metering losses, strategies like proportional control, and how sensors, controls, and software enable user-assist automation that improves efficiency, safety, and productivity. Be sure to check out the full report here. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Marcus Herrera, at Marcus.Herrera@hydacusa.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification

In this episode of Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Jon Frey, head of product area new business at Bosch Rexroth, about hydraulic motion control solutions that help "conquer the seas" by improving vessel and load stability in harsh maritime environments. Frey explains how hydraulics power and precisely control marine systems such as winches, cranes, steering gears, thrusters, stabilizers, mooring/constant-tension control, and active heave compensation (AHC). He describes AHC as using sensors like accelerometers and motion reference units (MRUs), responsive hydraulic winches, and control algorithms—often integrated with broader vessel control architectures and dynamic positioning—to keep suspended loads (e.g., ROVs or drilling equipment) stable relative to the seabed despite wave-induced heave. Frey also highlights design challenges including dynamic response, corrosion resistance, environmental forces, and future advances like AI/machine learning, real-time analytics, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Jon Frey, at jon.frey@boschrexroth-us.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #advancedsensors #motioncontrol #maritimehydraulics

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Al Rebholz of J.R. Merritt Controls about their long-running CONEXPO experience and the value of meeting existing and new customers. Rebholz highlights three key exhibits: the Evolve CAN-based controller (released in 2023) with versatile handle choices and configurable layouts using buttons, roller switches, and toggle switches; a new CAN-based or hall-effect-output foot pedal; and the Merritt Flex operator chair system featuring ergonomic consoles, flexible console population options, and improved operator comfort for longer operation. He directs listeners to the company website, www.jrmerritt.com, and LinkedIn for updates and to schedule onsite meetings. #FluidPowerForum #PrecisionControls #Ergonomics #Versatility Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Al Rebholz, at arebholz@jrmerritt.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Recorded on the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 show floor, guest host Ben Brown interviews Brandon Tauer of Nott Company about industry innovation and Nott's exhibit. Tauer highlights advancements in controls, efficiency, electrification, and hybrid hydraulics, noting their impact on productivity in fluid power. He explains that Nott Company, nearing its 150-year anniversary, is showcasing its role as a provider of engineering, integrated solutions, and supply chain support for mobile and industrial markets. Nott's booth features a mini excavator, mini skid steer, and a conveyor system demonstrating manufactured fuel systems (including a rotational molded tank), electric and electro-hydraulic systems, controls, hydraulics, sealing technology, and belting, emphasizing customer engagement to solve problems and deliver complete integrated solutions. Learn more at www.nottco.com #FluidPowerForum #Electrification #SystemIntegration #CustomerEngagement Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Brandon Tauer, at btauer@nottco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Sven Schnetzler of Camozzi Automation about strong show engagement with new and existing customers and market-driving innovation, especially new sensor technology for linear actuation using simplified, low-volume radar-based position sensing seen in hydraulic cylinders. Schnetzler describes Camozzi's booth featuring its full pneumatic product line—fittings, cylinders, valves, and FRL regulators and filters—and highlights new specialized products for off-highway tire inflation systems that actively control tire pressure based on terrain. He explains that while hydraulics dominate off-highway equipment, pneumatics are widespread, including piloting valve blocks, and Camozzi focuses on system integration by combining pneumatics with electronics and sensor technology, emphasizing quality and close customer support. Learn more at www.camozzi.com. #FluidPowerForum #pneumatics #systemintegration #sensors Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Sven Schnetzler, at sschnetzler@camozzi.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Scott Mason of FluiDyne Fluid Power about heavy booth traffic and customer conversations focused on old gear pumps and private label products. Mason highlights FluiDyne's new hydraulic steering control units for fully hydraulic steering systems with no mechanical linkage, featuring an orbital valve with omnidirectional flow control and customizable configurations. He also introduces FluiDyne's new 200 series orbital steering valves and a new line of aluminum gear pumps, and directs listeners to fluidynefp.com and social media for more information. #FluidPowerForum #CONEXPO #HydraulicSteering #OrbitalValves Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Scott Mason, at scott@fluidynefp.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

From the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG show floor, guest host Ben Brown interviews Luke Ferranti of Caplugs about trends in hydraulic system routing, bundling, protection, and identification, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and keeping equipment running. Luke highlights Caplugs' hydraulic protection offerings showcased at their booth, including spiral wrap, pig's tail, polyester sleeve, and threaded protection service plugs, along with standard catalog items. Common needs discussed include sourcing spiral wrap and expanding packaging options for threaded protection (caps vs. plugs) to support everyone from local hydraulic shops to major OEM dealer/MRO operations, helping prevent leaks and contamination through sealing and cleanliness practices. Learn more at caplugs.com or via LinkedIn. #ContaminationControl #HydraulicSealing #Caplugs Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Luke Ferranti, at Luke.Ferranti@caplugs.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Rick Guidish of Vis Hydraulics about his CONEXPO experience, opportunity to make and see industry connections, and the company's exhibit highlights. Vis Hydraulics is expanding its proportional valve offerings to support the hydraulic industry's shift toward electronic control, focusing first on proportional pressure control valves such as pilot operated relief valves, direct acting relief valves, and pressure reducing valves, as well as plans for expansion in the future. Guidish also promotes Vis Hydraulics' newly opened North American operations in Franklin, Wisconsin, which will warehouse product and manufacture finished valves to reduce tariff impacts, improve logistics, and shorten lead times for U.S. customers. Learn more at www.vishydraulics.com. #ProportionalValves #HydraulicInnovation #ManufacturingExpansion Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Rick Guidish, at rick.guidish@vishydraulics.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Ben Holter of Husco in the NFPA's first-ever Ben Show. Join to learn about industry trends and Husco's largest-ever CONEXPO booth, highlighting growing demand in the compact equipment market and electrification of hydraulics. Holter spotlights Husco's award-finalist GenSteer steer-by-wire system, positioned as a cost-acceptable platform for software-defined vehicles that enables feature changes via software and supports automation and improved operator feel and comfort. He explains GenSteer's fail-functional safety approach, using a motor-as-generator in failure mode to maintain steering power without extensive redundant batteries and controllers. Husco also features compact electrohydraulic products such as the M Series (described as the world's smallest electro proportional valve), spool position sensing for precise control, and the MX7 valve family (70–250 L/min). Learn more at husco.com. #FluidPowerForum #GenSteer #Electrification #CompactHydraulics Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Ben Holter, at Ben.Holter@husco.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Ada Leung of Anfield Sensors about the company's exhibit and value to customers. Ada says CONEXPO helps reconnect with existing customers and meet new ones seeking new applications. Anfield Sensors manufactures pressure, level, and temperature sensors and switches, based in Toronto with a facility in Newnan, Georgia, serving mainly the mobile market while also supporting niche fire, medical, and food applications. They sell globally across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and attend CONEXPO to expand domestic and international exposure. Ada highlights Anfield's strength in custom sensor products tailored to specific customer needs and unique, up-to-date solutions. Learn more at anfieldsensors.com or (404) 530-3804. #sensors #innovation #customproducts Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Ada Leung, at aleung@anfieldsensors.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Recorded live at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas, host Eric Lanke interviews NFPA Advanced Hydraulics Conference presenters Barun Acharya (Parker Hannifin), Joe Budden (Danfoss Power Solutions), and Philippe Reynolds (Poclain Hydraulics) on how electrification is driving innovation in mobile hydraulics through hybrid architectures, smarter controls, and integrated mechatronic solutions. Acharya outlines hybrid strategies to reduce battery cost via engine and hydraulic downsizing, variable pumps, steer-by-wire, and faster electric motor speed control to cut losses. Budden discusses selecting among increasingly complex system architectures and highlights new EV challenges such as back EMF, torque ripple, and NVH. Reynolds presents an integrated electronic drive unit for electrified wheel hubs, emphasizing energy-based sizing, higher voltage trends, and plug-and-play integration. The panel describes company shifts toward system engineering, acquisitions, and vehicle-level testing, notes autonomy as an emerging driver, and concludes that hydraulics' power density remains difficult to replace, though electric actuators fit some niche use cases. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with host Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with Barun Acharya, at bacharya@parker.com. Connect with Joe Budden, at jbudden@danfoss.com. Connect with Philippe Reynolds, at philippe.reynolds@poclain.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #electrification #energyefficiency #systemintegration

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Michael Cook of Trelleborg about show themes including efficiency, system integration, sensors, and electrification alongside continued importance of hydraulics. Cook highlights Trelleborg's exhibit across three pedestals: hydraulic cylinder sealing solutions (including polyurethane materials and new designs), powertrain solutions for pumps and motors with high-pressure rotary seals and cassette seals for high-contamination environments, and emerging technologies. He details the HMF17 flat gasket material aimed at replacing fiber gaskets on pump and motor housing flanges, and a Turcon SG seal for central tire inflation systems that enables on-the-fly tire inflation/deflation with minimal friction when disengaged. Listeners are directed to trelleborg.com/seals and Trelleborg Sealing Solutions channels. #FluidPowerForum #electrification #sealing #powertrain Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Michael Cook, at michael.cook@trelleborg.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At Conexpo 2026, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Bob Browski of Engineering Technology Services (ETS) about the show's value for supplier/customer meetings and industry networking. Browski explains that ETS supports fluid power aftermarket uptime by supplying only original products from major manufacturers (Bosch Rexroth, Parker, Atos, etc.), specializing in piston pumps, piston motors, and industrial valves. ETS fills distribution inventory gaps when critical parts aren't on the shelf, helping resolve line-down situations quickly with real-time online inventory and a ship-today/receive-tomorrow model via the FedEx hub, including rapid global shipping. ETS also offers fundamentals of hydraulics training in Memphis to help address workforce turnover and skills gaps. Learn more at etshydro.com. #FluidPowerForum #uptime #inventorymanagement #hydraulics Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Bob Borowski, at rborowski@etshydro.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Keith Bayer of SunSource about construction industry momentum and technology trends including fly-by-wire controls, electrification, and hybrid hydraulic-electric solutions for off-highway equipment. Bayer highlights SunSource exhibits: an electro-hydraulic steering simulator featuring steering wheel control, joystick propel, coordinated, crab, and articulated steering modes to improve control, positional accuracy, and reduce operator fatigue; integrated engine cooling packages with full-scale controls demonstration. Additionally, learn about their patented Cyclone Reservoir technology using cyclonic oil flow to reduce onboard oil, reservoir size, and weight; and a vehicle electrification demo featuring an Eaton high-voltage inverter plus battery and thermal management. Learn more at Sun-Source.com or on LinkedIn. #FlyByWire #EngineCooling #Electrification Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Keith Bayer, at kbayer@sunsrce.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Russ Schneiderwind from Hydraforce about show highlights and Hydraforce's exhibits. Russ notes key fluid power innovations around precise control, efficiency, and increased integration of electronics, sensors, software, and data analytics. Hydraforce is showcasing its cartridge valve technology, new products developed through integration with Bosch Rexroth (which acquired Hydraforce in 2023), including proportional valves for excavator load/boom lock applications, and HF Impulse GUI integration with hardware. Russ also discusses a Connected Control Unit (CCU) gateway for telematics and over-the-air updates, developed with software updates and a collaboration with Elevate to provide a cost-effective, flexible, single-gateway approach for machines with multiple controller types. #CONEXPO #FluidPower #Telematics Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Russ Schneidewind, at russs@hydraforce.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Jason Parks of Suburban Manufacturing Group about a busy show floor and notable innovations like directional drills and vac trucks. Parks highlights Suburban's booth featuring Python Protective Sleeves and Lubeminder Oil and Grease systems. He describes new Python thermal products that provide line-of-sight protection and thermal resistance to help shield hydraulic hoses in hot engine compartments and reduce operator hazards. He also introduces a new hydraulically operated grease pump that delivers about 40 times more grease per stroke than electric competitors, moving large volumes while simplifying system design. Listeners are directed to www.gosuburban.com and Suburban's LinkedIn and Facebook pages. #CONEXPO #FluidPower #HydraulicMaintenance Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Jason Parks, at jparks@gosuburban.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Bruce Riley of Ultra Clean Technologies Corp about a busy show with returning customers and new leads and highlights innovations seen on the floor. Riley explains Ultra Clean's focus on contamination control through cleaning hydraulic hoses and tubes and encapsulating cleaned ends with heat shrink. He also introduces three new products: biodegradable stem lubricants for industrial and hydraulic applications, a patented custom 3D-printed nozzle program with 24–48 hour turnaround, and the PLC-controlled Ultra Loader for rapid projectile firing in production hose and tube assemblies. Riley also points listeners to the company website and describes webinar-based operator training and a certification program backed by independent test reports. #CONEXPO #ContaminationControl #OperatorTraining Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Bruce Riley, at briley@ultracleantech.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO trade show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Elie Nasr of Famic Technologies about show highlights and Famic's Automation Studio software for system design, modeling, and simulation across hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical, automation, robotics, and P&ID. Nassar notes the growing impact of electronics on components such as valves, pumps, and transmission systems. He explains that Automation Studio enables engineers to build models using real manufacturer components and reuse the same design for simulation, system validation, maintenance, troubleshooting, training, and full documentation, with OEM feedback citing 80–90% reductions in design time. Listeners can find updates on LinkedIn and videos on YouTube. #FluidPowerForum #CONEXPO #ModelingAndSimulation #SystemDesign Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Elie Nasr, at enasr@famictech.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Guest host Ben Brown records from the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 show floor for the NFPA Fluid Power Forum podcast and interviews Chris Kolbe of HYDAC about show trends and HYDAC's exhibit. Chris describes a busy event despite marketplace uncertainty and notes a shift from electrification toward autonomy, automation, and user-assist functions. He explains how HYDAC is showcasing system solutions that combine filtration, valves, electronic controls, accumulators, and other components to enable steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire, including variable steering-rate functionality. HYDAC is also ranh live mini excavator and skid steer demos—electrified with hydraulics still central to work functions—to help OEMs evaluate integrated system design and collaboration. Learn more at hydac.com or connect with Chris on LinkedIn. #FluidPowerForum #Autonomy #SystemDesign #CONEXPO Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Chris Kolbe, at chris.kolbe@hydacusa.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Andrew Johnson of HeavyTech about show highlights and industry trends toward electrification. Johnson explains that HeavyTech is a new U.S. manufacturer in Fort Wayne, Indiana building compact track loaders, mini excavators, and articulated loaders with diesel-electric hybrid and all-electric powertrains. He says HeavyTech is taking a clean-slate approach to hybridization to improve fuel efficiency and total cost of ownership while emphasizing right to repair, uptime, safety, and operator enjoyment, and that updates are shared on HeavyTech's LinkedIn, alongside appreciation for NFPA-member partners supporting the design. #CONEXPO #Electrification #HybridEquipment Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Andrew Johnson, at andrew@shelfawarevmi.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

This special episode of Fluid Power Forum features a recording of NFPA's inaugural Controls, IoT, and Data (CID) council webinar from February 2026, hosted by Mike Lietke with guest Mark Hoffman, Senior Vice President of Rota Limited. Hoffman outlines Rota's history and focus on transducers and high-end sensors used in hydraulic cylinders and beyond, including rotary sensing and tank applications, and explains how product development is driven by both customer needs and internal innovation. The discussion compares mobile and oil & gas requirements, emphasizing hazardous-area certifications, extreme-environment robustness, and the importance of collaboration among end users, cylinder manufacturers, and sensor suppliers. Hoffman describes industry shifts toward non-contact sensing, increased electrical robustness, and cost-reduction trends such as lower gun-drilling costs and material/assembly changes, and previews Rota's expanded manufacturing capacity and new rotary sensor product. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our guest host, Mike Lietke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Mark Hoffman, at markhoffman@rota-ltd.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #CID #sensors #costreduction

In this episode of Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews David Lundquist, Global Product Manager at Hydraulic Technologies, about high-pressure, heavy-load hydraulic systems and the push toward electrification and cordless jobsite performance. The conversation focuses on synchronous motion to reduce stress on heavy structures and improve safety. Lundquist compares the long-established MCS synchronous system with the newer eSync system, a modular, two-person-carry platform that can connect to many existing pumps and cylinders and is available in cordless configurations that eliminate generators for remote, low-fume, or noise-sensitive environments. Field examples include bridge bearing replacement lifts and lateral push/pull applications like skidding tunnel boring machines and precision compression work in data centers. Lundquist also shares major projects, including lifting the Palace Theater in Times, and highly precise rotor maintenance work at the Niagara Falls hydropower plant. Check out some of the video examples discussed at the links below: Palace Theater Lift Niagara Falls Rotor Maintenance Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, David Lundquist, at david.lundquist@hytec.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Join us on this latest episode of Fluid Power Forum with guest Sven Schnetzler, Head of Global Business Development for Transportation at Camozzi Automation. Discover the latest advancements in pneumatics and hydraulics in various vehicle platforms, and explore the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, energy harvesting, and more into transportation systems. Additionally, get a sneak peek at Camozzi's booth at the upcoming Conexpo-Con/Agg trade show in 2026, where they will showcase their enhanced product portfolio, including valves, fittings, and IoT components. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Sven Schnetzler, at sschnetzler@camozzi.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.

Join us on this latest episode of Fluid Power Forum with special guest Greg Shtrahman from Marzocchi Pumps USA. Discover the cutting-edge advancements in hydraulic technology, focusing on energy efficiency and substantial noise reduction in their innovative helical pumps. Greg also sheds light on the growing integration of hydraulics in electrified vehicles and industrial applications. Don't miss our preview of the upcoming ConExpo-Con/Agg, where Marzocchi will showcase their latest breakthroughs. Tune in for an engaging look into the future of hydraulics! Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Greg Shtrahman, at gregs@marzocchipumpsusa.com.    Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #Hydraulics #EnergyEfficiency #ConExpo

Explore the dynamic shifts in the fluid power industry from 2025 in our latest episode of Fluid Power Forum! Dive into key trends in hydraulics and pneumatics, tech innovation, and industry consolidation with host Eric Lanke. Hear insights from guest experts Alastair Hayfield (Interact Analysis), Mary Gannon (Fluid Power World), and Sara Jensen (Power & Motion) as they unpack the year's top stories and forecast what's on the horizon. Don't miss this deep dive into the evolving landscape of the fluid power sector. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with Alastair Hayfield, at alastair.hayfield@interactanalysis.com. Connect with Mary Gannon, at mgannon@wtwhmedia.com. Connect with Sara Jensen, at sjensen@endeavorb2b.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #Hydraulics #Pneumatics #2025YearInReview

In this special holiday re-release on the Fluid Power Forum, we are revisiting Episode 136 with Marcus Herrera, a Sales Application Engineer at HYDAC. In this episode, Eric Lanke and Marcus Herrera delve into the intricacies of functional safety, exploring standards IEC 61508 and ISO 13849, and how these apply to different industries and machines. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Marcus Herrera, at marcus.herrera@hydacusa.com.    Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #offhighway #functionalsafety

In this episode of the Fluid Power Forum, we dive into the evolution of electrohydraulic equipment with our guests, Jason Looman and Andy Gray from Scanreco Group. Join us as we explore the role of human-machine interfaces (HMIs) in enhancing operator experience and safety in smart equipment. Discover how everything from operator feedback to AI-driven designs are shaping the future of fluid power technology. Be sure to listen in for insights on how these innovations are transforming the landscape and what it means for industry professionals. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guests, Jason Looman, at jason.looman@scanreco.com, and Andy Gray, at andy.gray@scanreco.com.   Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #HMIs #operatorexperience

On today's show, our guest is Joseph Beckman, the National Sales Manager at Casappa Corporation USA. Founded over 70 years ago, Casappa has a storied history of innovation in pumps, valves, and filtration, and is continuing that tradition today. Casappa recently presented at iVT to demonstrate their new on-board data digitization solution for hydraulic pumps. Join us to learn how this affects reliability, accuracy, and data analysis. We also discuss use cases for this data, and how this boosts the growth of AI in industry. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Joseph Beckman, at BeckmanJ@casappa.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan, and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #hydraulicpumps #sensors

On today's show, our guest is Corey Quinnell, VP of Global Engineering at Husco, known for designing and manufacturing hydraulic and electro-hydraulic controls for mobile equipment across worldwide markets. Expanding on his talk at the iVT 2025 tech conference presentation, Corey talks about the importance of data analytics and shares practical guidelines and ideas to maximize the utility of this tool. We also discuss the case study he demonstrated, and some common areas of inefficiency. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Corey Quinnell, at corey.quinnell@husco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan, and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #thermalmanagement #systemdesign

On today's show, our guest is Vykram Vijayasekaran, the Electrification/EV Thermal Management Manager at AKG of America. With over a century of experience, AKG of America's focus on cooling solutions has resulted in a wide variety of applications and system offerings. Diving into the current state of thermal management, Vykram breaks down challenges of this field, as well as the benefits users can experience from sophisticated solutions. We also discuss the importance of modeling in early stages of system design. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Additionally, we're launching Fluid Power Forum Plus, offering premium, members-only content designed just for our listeners. When you sign up on the NFPA website, you'll unlock a host of rewards, ranging from exclusive content to live panels and networking receptions. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Vykram Vijayasekaran, at vykram.vijayasekaran@akg-america.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan, and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #thermalmanagement #systemdesign