Fluid power systems work through pressurised fluid directed on a piston in a cylinder or into a fluid motor. Fluid cylinders create force which results in linear motion, while fluid motors create torque which results in rotary motion. Hydraulic machines are designed to convert mechanical energy into fluid energy as pressurised fluid (most commonly oil) is passed through a hydraulic cylinder to provide linear motion, or through a hydraulic motor to produce rotary motion/ torque. They are used across various industries and cover a range of applications, from jobsite excavations to commercial aircraft.
Hydraulics are often preferred due to the incompressible oil allowing for large amounts of force to be transferred relatively easily. Hydraulic machines work conjunctively with pumps, valves, tubes and fittings. Hydraulic cylinders and pumps (vane pumps and piston pumps) provide force and transfer the flow and direction of liquid in hydraulic machines. Valves such as solenoid valves and check valves control the flow and direction of the liquid. Other key accessories for hydraulic machines include hydraulic clamps, hydraulic accumulators and tubes fittings.