2021 Directory

Technology Focus The hydraulics, pneumatics and related systems and equipment solutions marketplace continues to develop and adapt I order to continue to best suit the changing requirements of end user and OEM customers. In specific terms, Frank Durban, Division Marketing & Engineering Manager Electric Motion, Motion Systems Group. observes that electrification and digitalisation are driving change in product and system design across the mobile, industrial and transportation industries. “This is no surprise; there’s growing demand for combined electro- hydraulic and electro-pneumatic technology,” he says. “It reflects customer needs to save energy, limit environmental impact, maintain safety and adapt to changing regulations. For example, in mobile, many customers want to improve their power to weight ratio. Solutions like Parker’s GVM motor are a no-brainer as the user can both reduce vehicle weight and design footprint and increase efficiency.” Durban adds that opportunities to develop software and IoT solutions are also popular. “Today’s technologies can streamline controls, improve product utilisation and predict maintenance requirements on a global scale,” he explains. “If say, you’re running a fleet of telehandlers, we can show you how well the equipment is being utilised, wherever you are in the world; the tech monitors efficiency and provides data to support business decisions.” Relationships Durban considers that strong relationships remain business critical. “Understanding what our customers (and their customers) need from equipment is central to everything we do,” he says. “That way, we can develop technologies and products that truly add value and get the outcomes people need. Our Global Mobile Systems Centre in Sweden is an example of how Parker converts listening into action. It’s home to many different partnerships, including work on electric telehandlers, forklifts and boom controls. We work with customers to define their precise needs, then develop vehicle prototypes to prove effectiveness. Customers can visit the centre to see demonstrations and help us refine their solutions first-hand. Where emerging technologies are key, we can also access Parker’s global Mobile Technology Centre in the US. This joint venture between our motion systems and aerospace teams is dedicated to addressing electrification and electro-actuation technology. There’s significant potential for knowledge transfer with the industrial and mobile markets; it’s an exciting time to work in our business.” Connectivity With regard to technological developments that are impacting on the solutions leading providers are now supplying to users and OEMs, Durban believes connectivity is key. “Breaking Changing horizons 52 www.bfpa.co.uk The BFPA Yearbook spoke with two prominent members of the Association – Parker and Holmbury Group – about the changing technology and political landscape, and the effect this is having on leading solutions providers at both enterprise and SME level within the fluid power and related solutions arena.  Frank Durban, Division Marketing & Engineering Manager Electric Motion, Motion Systems Group, Parker Hannifin.  James French: “As an owner of a business, one craves stability and opportunity.”