Fluid Power Applications

Together, hydraulics and pneumatics are known as fluid power. Fluid power is a partner in an
evolving high technology alliance that provides the world with unprecedented control of force,
torque, position and motion.

The combination of fluid power systems with advanced electronics adds control and flexibility to
the strength of hydraulics and the speed of pneumatics. These 23 application examples
show some typical applications for this technology. The examples, though simplified for clarity,
are based on real applications.

As you read each one, you will learn why fluid power was chosen as a power source (whether it
be hydraulic or pneumatic), and which categories of electronic sensing and control were central
to the design. The applications are organized around four motion control categories - force,
position, velocity and acceleration - all typical output requirements of a vehicle, machine or
system.

Each application is also linked to NFPA's Fluid Power Product Locator. This locator, with its
links to NFPA's manufacturing members, will facilitate your exploration into the world of fluid
power.

In addition to the applications below, see the latest Case Studies of Applications Utilizing
Pneumatic and Hydraulic Technology.

The following applications in PDF format are included here:

Electrohydraulics*  Electropneumatics* Pneumatics Automation at Work*

Anti-stall control for hydrostatic

Multiple welding machine Assembly
drive

Concrete saw Paint spray system Broaching

Airframe tester Pneumatic torquer for engine bolts Clamping

Missile pump test Well-digger brake Drilling

Hitch control for a tractor Stapler test Facing

Plastic injection molding Tension control of a paper web Loading

Jackknife carloader Component inserter  
Flying cutoff shear    
Flight simulator    
Rough terrain forklift