HYDRAULICS As industries across the UK face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact, manufacturers of hydraulic power units (HPUs) are prioritising energy efficiency and sustainability in their designs. Hydraulic power units are central to a wide range of industrial applications, from construction and manufacturing to oil and gas and renewable energy. In these sectors, HPUs play a vital role in powering machinery and systems that require high force and precision, making the drive for more sustainable operations all the more critical. For manufacturers, this focus on energy efficiency isn’t just about meeting regulatory demands; it’s an opportunity to optimise processes, improve product performance, and ensure long-term competitiveness. Traditionally, hydraulic power units have been known for their high energy consumption. Conventional systems, especially those using fixed-speed pumps, can waste significant amounts of energy. The need for more efficient energy use is becoming increasingly urgent as businesses look to reduce operating costs and comply with stricter environmental regulations. One of the most significant advancements in HPU technology has been the introduction of variable-speed drive (VSD) systems. These systems allow the pump speed to adjust according to the load, ensuring that only the necessary energy is used at any given time. This can result in substantial energy savings, particularly in applications where the load fluctuates, such as in construction machinery or manufacturing processes. While the initial investment in VSD pumps and motors may be higher than in conventional systems, the long-term benefits far outweigh the upfront costs. For manufacturers of HPUs, this presents an opportunity to offer more energyefficient solutions that deliver a quicker return on investment for end users. By integrating VSD technology into their power units, manufacturers not only help clients lower energy consumption, but also reduce wear and tear on components, leading to longer service life and less frequent maintenance. Energy efficiency is just one aspect of sustainability within the hydraulic power unit market. The environmental impact of hydraulic systems goes beyond energy use to include the materials and fluids that power them. Hydraulic fluid, a key component of any HPU, can be harmful if 16 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS January/February 2025 www.hpmag.co.uk As the demand for sustainable and energy-efficient solutions grows, manufacturers of hydraulic power units (HPUs) must adapt to new technologies and practices. By integrating variable-speed drives, biodegradable fluids, and digital innovations, they can reduce costs, improve system performance, and meet the UK’s stringent environmental goals while staying competitive. H&P reports. Driving sustainability: The future of hydraulic Power Units in a Net-Zero economy it leaks or spills, potentially contaminating soil and water. To address this concern, manufacturers are increasingly developing biodegradable, non-toxic fluids that perform at the same high level as traditional oils but break down quickly in the environment. These new fluids help minimise the environmental risk of hydraulic operations, making them a more sustainable option for industries such as agriculture, mining, and offshore oil and gas extraction, where environmental regulations are becoming more stringent. Furthermore, the trend towards sustainability is encouraging manufacturers to adopt a more circular approach to production. Hydraulic power units consist of various materials, many of which can be recycled. Steel, for example, is commonly used in the construction of power packs and can be reused in the production of new units or other components. By considering the full lifecycle of their products, from sourcing raw materials to end-of-life disposal, manufacturers can significantly reduce their environmental impact. The adoption of these circular economy principles not only helps preserve resources but also
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