KNOWLEDGE BASE The integration of advanced technologies into manufacturing processes has long been heralded as the dawn of a new industrial era. Electro-hydraulic systems, automation, and digital transformation are among the innovations promising enhanced efficiency, precision, and sustainability. Yet, the journey to seamless integration is far from straightforward, often marred by practical, economic, and organisational hurdles that challenge even the most forward-thinking manufacturers. At the heart of these challenges lies the complexity of legacy systems. Many manufacturing facilities in the UK still operate with machinery and control systems that, while robust and reliable, are decades old. These legacy systems are frequently incompatible with modern technology, necessitating substantial modifications or complete overhauls to accommodate new electro-hydraulic components or advanced digital controls. The cost of such upgrades is prohibitive for many, particularly small to mediumsized enterprises that form the backbone 30 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS June 2025 www.hpmag.co.uk The integration of electro-hydraulic systems into UK manufacturing promises greater efficiency and sustainability but is hindered by legacy infrastructure, skills shortages, and regulatory challenges. Despite these barriers, phased upgrades, targeted training, and data-driven solutions offer a viable path forward for manufacturers determined to modernise and compete globally. H&P reports. Bridging the gap in UK manufacturing through smart integration of British manufacturing. The financial implications are not limited to the initial outlay for new equipment; there is also the added burden of downtime, retraining staff, and potential disruptions to production schedules. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancement adds another layer of complexity. New systems often become obsolete within a few years as innovation accelerates. For manufacturers, this creates a dilemma: invest heavily in technology that may soon require further upgrades or risk falling behind competitors who embrace the latest advancements. The fear of technological redundancy can lead to hesitation, with decision-makers opting for minimal updates rather than full-scale integration. The workforce The workforce itself is another critical component in the integration puzzle. A skilled labour force is essential for operating and maintaining advanced systems, yet the UK faces a persistent skills gap in fields such as hydraulics, mechatronics, and digital control systems. Even when skilled technicians are available, the transition from traditional mechanical systems to hybrid electrohydraulic configurations requires significant retraining. This shift is not merely technical; it represents a cultural change within organisations that have long relied on manual expertise and mechanical intuition. Compounding these issues is the need for robust data infrastructure. Modern manufacturing increasingly relies on realtime data collection and analysis to optimise operations. Electro-hydraulic systems, in particular, benefit from continuous monitoring of pressure, flow, and mechanical efficiency. However, integrating these data streams into legacy IT systems presents formidable challenges. Data compatibility, cyber security concerns, and the sheer volume of information generated require advanced IT capabilities that many manufacturers are not equipped to manage. Without seamless data
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=