Chapter 1 Introduction to Fluid Power 29
It has been the key to the development of today’s
large mobile hydraulics field.
The development of new materials and manu-
facturing techniques has promoted the design of
new fluid power concepts and allowed practical
application of old ideas, Figure 1-20. The miniatur-
ization of components has produced new applica-
tions, while the combining of electrical/electronic
control and fluid power systems has produced
more effective machines. Two components that
illustrate these factors are hydrostatic transmis-
sions and servo systems. These units are heavily
used in both industrial and consumer applica-
tions, Figure 1-21. Neither could exist in their pres-
ent form without the sophistication of the present
manufacturing community.
Today’s automobile can be used as an example
of the use of fluid power. The body of the vehicle
is formed by huge hydraulic-powered presses.
Hydraulically-controlled resistance welding equip-
ment assembles those parts, while untold numbers
of other hydraulic and pneumatic tools are used in
the production of the additional parts and during
the final assembly process. Intricate fluid power
systems are also used in the steering, braking, and
ride control systems of the vehicle, which promote
safety and comfort of the driver and passengers.
Figure 1-19. Compact power sources such as these hydraulic units have added
fl exibility to the application of fl uid power. (Continental Hydraulics)
Figure 1-20. Central power systems are often used
in large manufacturing facilities to produce com-
pressed air for pneumatic applications.
(Photo: Atlas Copco)