Interview with Ian Morris

JC: How has the fluid power market been affected since the downturn and what is the future outlook for the sector? IM: Fluid power is a major component in many areas of industry encompassing the air lines and pneumatic systems around manufacturing sites, the Hydraulic power transmission on construction machinery, aircraft, trains and the marine sector. As you can see, it is difficult to move without coming across some aspect of fluid power. Indeed, many of us in our daily lives sit on an office chair which incorporates a pneumatic strut. Therefore, hydraulic and pneumatic systems are very much at the mercy of their user market. It is no secret that many major markets such as, automotive, construction and machinery have seen a downturn in demand and it comes as no surprise that our industry has suffered as a result. Nevertheless, all is not gloom and areas such as defence and oil have held up well. While it is impossible to be black and white on this one, there is no denying that business is down. As for the future, I wish I knew! If the major buyers pick up, then business will grow again and if not, then vice versa. Your crystal ball is as good as mine! JC: What are the current innovations within hydraulics and pneumatics and what benefits do these bring to your members? IM: Probably the biggest change to both pneumatics and hydraulics has been the improved interfacing between electronic systems, which provides increased control ability. The ever increasing robustness of electronic components has meant that many are able to be built into the hydraulic/pneumatic products. JC: What advice would you give to engineers when it comes to hydraulic and pneumatic systems in a design? IM: My advice to designers is not unique but still very relevant. Firstly, keep it simple - you don't have to show how clever you are. The customer just wants it to work. Secondly, get your filtration right and keep the system clean. Thirdly, make sure that service items are easy to get at. Finally, check and re-check the manuals for mistakes. Nothing is more infuriating than mistakes in documentation. I have not mentioned safety as that should be a given. JC: What are the common pitfalls you see in industry when it comes to using fluid power systems and equipment? IM: Hydraulics and pneumatics have been used by industry for many years and everyone is used to seeing them in regular and reliable use. This leads to a belief that they are a fit and forget product. Regular filter changes and indeed condition monitoring can extend system life, thus running costs many fold. I have seen hydraulic systems run for over 30 years with little more then good regular filter changes. JC: What are the main drivers for fluid power systems? IM: Looking to the future, drivers will be power density, flexibility, efficiency and - with the load sensing systems now available - economy and environmental responsibility. Biodegradable fluids will play their part in this responsible approach to the environment, as do superior sealing methods which keep the fluids where they should be - in the system. Imagination is the only limitation to what is possible with fluid power, but I suppose I would say that!