HYDRAULICS In the early 2000s, while working as a sales engineer, Colin Walker was tasked with streamlining the hydraulic parts inventory for a major UK steel company. During the process, he discovered an inefficiency: the company had accumulated 26 identical Cetop directional valves, stored across four different plant engineers. Despite being functionally identical, the valves came from four different manufacturers, each with its own part number. By researching part numbers and manufacturer specifications, Colin successfully cross-referenced the valves, revealing potential cost savings. Standardising on a single manufacturer could have eliminated redundant stock and reduced lead times—critical advantages in any industrial setting. Recognising the broader value of such a cross-referencing system, Colin set out to compile a comprehensive database, initially envisioning it as a printed reference guide for the fluid power industry. The challenge of slow supplier response times Fast-forward to 2016, and Colin, still refining his database in his spare time, conducted a survey to assess the response efficiency of hydraulic parts suppliers. The results highlighted inefficiencies: Ten leading hydraulic manufacturers were each given two competitor part numbers and asked for equivalent part availability and pricing. Only four responded, with an average response time of 36 hours. Ten well-known fluid power distributors received the same request. Eight responded, with an improved but still slow average response time of seven hours. Of the 12 total responses, half were unable to assist or required additional information, further extending response times. Two respondents had suitable alternatives in stock but lacked the necessary knowledge to identify them. A worsening industry landscape Since 2016, the situation has only deteriorated. The COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages, and the war in Ukraine have exacerbated delays. Additionally, the industry faces a shortage of skilled personnel, with experienced engineers retiring and few new professionals entering the field. These challenges make efficient sourcing of hydraulic components more essential than ever. A solution 25 years in the making Over the past 25 years, Colin has built an extensive hydraulic components database. Today, it contains cross-referenced details for over 32,000 parts across more than 100 manufacturers, including Cetop valves. This resource is not just a catalogue; it is a practical tool that can be integrated into company webshops, apps, trade counters, and sales desks. For businesses struggling with slow supplier response times or long delivery lead times, access to this database offers a practical advantage. Having instant, reliable cross-referencing information at hand ensures companies can quickly find viable alternatives, improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. To learn more about the database please contact: colinwalker@talk21.com or call on: 07850 484573 A hydraulic components database, developed over 25 years by Colin Walker, C-Tec Fluid Power Limited, provides cross-referencing for 32,000+ parts across 100+ manufacturers. Designed to enhance procurement efficiency, it helps businesses reduce lead times and source alternatives when suppliers delay. The tool integrates seamlessly with webshops, apps, and trade counters, offering instant access to essential data. H&P explores the development of the database and its impact on the fluid power industry. 24 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS April/May 2025 www.hpmag.co.uk Revolutionising hydraulic parts procurement: The database that could save time and money
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