More in Fluid Power Basics

Flow-control valves include simple orifices to sophisticated closed-loop electrohydraulic valves that automatically adjust to variations in pressure and temperature....More

Although air compressor operating specifications may look the same on paper, their fundamental designs and controls can make major differences in how they perform....More

Servo and servoproportional valves control pressure or flow, and ultimately, force or velocity. Unlike simple directional valves, they can maintain any position between fully open in one direction or the other....More

Every compressed air system needs a receiver, but the receiver alone is not always the answer to energy efficiency in the system....More

Hydraulic hose provides a basic means for transporting fluid from one component to another, and at the same time it supplies an inherent versatility to designers....More

To maximize the effectiveness of that familiar air-operation trio — the filter/ regulator/ lubricator — you need to know a little more than just the pipe size where it will be installed....More

From the low end of the spectrum to the high, swivel joints can do everything from improving existing designs to making new designs possible....More

Air regulators are special valves that reduce supply pressure to the level required for efficient operation of downstream pneumatic equipment....More

Quick-acting couplings provide a fast, convenient way to repeatedly connect and disconnect fluid lines....More

Water in compressed air can damage production machinery, resulting in downtime and spoiled product....More

Among the basic elements of virtually every hydraulic system is a series of fittings for connecting tube, pipe, and hose to pumps, valves, actuators, and other components....More