Standards In today’s globalised economy the benefits to a company of adhering to international standards cannot be overstated. Whether you are a fluid power manufacturer, OEM or end-user, engaging with international standards opens up a wide range of benefits that enhance competitiveness, help drive innovation and provide sustainable business growth. Fluid power systems cross many vertical industries, such as mobile plant, rail, marine and offshore; the list is endless. Many fluid power products are applied to many different applications across many industry sectors, and aligning with globally recognised standards can unlock unparalleled opportunities for these businesses. Fluid power has come under increasing pressure from alternative technologies but still has the advantage of power density. Comparing the efficiency of different technologies and systems designs in an internationally recognised manner is therefore vital to all companies in the supply chain. Standards derived from our global industry experts have made this a reality. Improving employee skills and knowledge There are hidden benefits to companies who allow their young engineering talent time and resources to engage with standards work and encourage them to do so. It is, in fact, investing in the training and development of its employees. They get to work alongside experienced engineers from other companies and industries, which promotes global best practices and enhances skills and knowledge. That, in turn, will drive innovation within their own company. Enhancing product quality and reliability International standards are designed to ensure high-quality and reliable products. For fluid power systems, this means stringent requirements for performance, durability, and safety. UK manufacturing companies that align their products with these standards can guarantee superior quality and reliability. Standards try not to stifle innovation but concentrate on providing robust test criteria which ensure they meet the standards the industry requires. This not only boosts customer confidence but also reduces the likelihood of product failures and associated costs. Consistently highquality products pave the way for a robust brand reputation, fostering longterm customer loyalty. Promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility Many international fluid power standards incorporate environmental considerations and sustainability criteria. UK companies that adhere to these standards demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility. This can enhance their corporate image and attract environmentally conscious customers and partners. Furthermore, sustainable practices often lead to cost savings through efficient resource use and waste reduction. How does working with the BFPA help you achieve your goals? The BFPA holds the external secretariat for fluid power standardisation from the British Standards Institution (BSI). Prior to becoming an external secretariat, BFPA held its own technical committee meetings mirroring those of BSI and the International Standards Organisation (ISO). In the past, a committee member would attend BFPA meetings, discuss a topic and formulate a BFPA view. They would then attend a separate meeting at BSI in London and discuss the same topics but this time with a full BSI committee membership. This would include nonBFPA members who were eligible for BSI technical committee membership. E.g. National bodies such as the MOD. As an external secretariat, we now Benefits of engaging with the British Fluid Power Association in international standards development 20 www.bfpa.co.uk By embracing international standards, UK firms can enhance their competitiveness. Jerry Hughes, BFPA Technical and Standards Committee Chair, BSI Chair MCE18 and ISO Chair TC131/SC9, outlines several of the benefits that can be gained from working with the British Fluid Power Association (BFPA) on the development of the international standards which affect the sector.
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