www.hpmag.co.uk MARCH 2026 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS VOL. 31 No. 2 MARCH 2026 p28 p32 Smarter sensors, smarter factories The evolving role of air and gas technologies Managing lubrication and fluid condition in hydraulic systems p18 The rise of electrohydraulic control
Reward businesses that train the next generation EDITOR’S COMMENT www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 3 If Britain is to shape that future rather than react to it, the partnership between government and industry must move beyond ambition and extend into practical support. ‘ ’ The Business Secretary, Peter Kyle, delivered a clear message to manufacturers at the Make UK annual conference: modernise, adopt advanced technologies and invest in people. It is hard to argue with that vision. Artificial intelligence, 3D printing and digitally integrated manufacturing models are rapidly redefining global industry. If Britain’s manufacturers are to remain competitive, they will indeed have to embrace new technologies and rethink how they produce, sell and service their products. But as Kyle rightly acknowledged, the machines themselves are only half the story. Arguably the most important line of the speech was the reminder that manufacturing prosperity cannot be automated. The sector depends on people: engineers, technicians, designers and operators capable of working with increasingly sophisticated systems. In that respect, the Government’s commitment of more than £1bn to sector specific skills packages is welcome. Strengthening links between industry, further education colleges and universities is exactly the kind of coordinated approach needed. However, the success of such programmes will depend not only on funding but on participation, particularly from SMEs that often struggle to take on trainees or apprentices due to cost, time and administrative burden. One question from the audience went directly to this issue: whether the Government should offer tax incentives or similar financial support to businesses that take on apprentices or give young people their first opportunity in industry. It is a practical suggestion that deserves serious consideration. Manufacturers frequently say they want to invest in skills, yet the immediate cost of training new entrants can be difficult to absorb, especially for smaller firms. Apprentices require supervision, mentoring and time before they become fully productive members of the workforce. Targeted tax relief or national insurance incentives for companies that hire and train apprentices could significantly lower that barrier. Kyle also spoke persuasively about the changing nature of manufacturing, particularly the shift from selling products to selling integrated solutions that combine hardware, software and service contracts. This “servitisation” model is already transforming sectors such as aerospace, where companies increasingly sell performance and maintenance rather than physical equipment alone. Yet this transition requires a workforce that blends engineering expertise with digital literacy, data analysis and systems integration. That workforce will not emerge automatically. It must be trained, nurtured and retained, and government policy will play an important role in supporting that process. The broader direction outlined by the Business Secretary is largely correct. The UK has strong research institutions, capable engineers and a long tradition of industrial innovation. But global competition in manufacturing is intensifying. Countries across Europe, North America and Asia are investing heavily in industrial policy, workforce development and technological transformation. If Britain is to shape that future rather than react to it, the partnership between government and industry must move beyond ambition and extend into practical support. Aaron Blutstein Editor
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www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 5 CONTENTS EDITORIAL Editor: Aaron Blutstein t| 01732 370340 e| editorial@dfamedia.co.uk Content Sub Editor: Leslah Garland t| 01732 370340 e| leslah.garland@dfamedia.co.uk SALES Sales Manager, UK & Overseas: Andrew Jell t| 01732 370347 e| andrew.jell@dfamedia.co.uk Italian Sales Office: Oliver & Diego Casiraghi t| 031 261407 f| 031 261380 e| info@casiraghi.info Turkey: Intersmart Media meltem@intersmartmedia.co.uk Managing Director: Ryan Fuller t| 01732 370344 e| ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Production Manager & Designer: Chris Davis t| 01732 370340 e| chris.davis@dfamedia.co.uk Reader/Circulation Enquiries: Perception t| +44 (0) 1825 701520. e| dfamedia@dmags.co.uk Marketing Manager Hope Jepson e| hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk Financial Finance Department e| accounts@dfamedia.co.uk Published by: DFA Media Group, 192 The High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE t| 01732 370340 e| info@dfamedia.co.uk w| www.hpmag.co.uk In co-operation with H&P is a controlled circulation magazine, published 8 times a year. Please contact DFA Media with any subscription enquiries. Paid subscriptions are also available on an annual basis at £110.00 (UK), £145.00 (Europe) or £180.00 (Rest of the World) P+P included. The content of this magazine, website and newsletters do not necessarily express the views of the Editor or publishers. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising from information in this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers. 22 28 6 NEWS 14 HYDRAULICS Incorrect swage tolerances remain a common cause of hydraulic hose assembly failure, particularly as systems operate at higher pressures and duty cycles. Ensuring the correct crimp diameter through proper equipment, calibration and verification is essential to maintaining reliable and safe hydraulic connections. 22 PNEUMATICS 24 INTEGRATED SYSTEMS As construction machinery becomes more connected and automated, hydraulic systems are increasingly integrated with electronic control, sensing and machine data networks. The result is greater precision, improved energy management and new opportunities for monitoring machine performance across demanding construction environments. 26 APPLICATIONS 28 KNOWLEDGE BASE Offshore wind projects require complex infrastructure to bring power safely to the onshore grid. Pneumatic pipe ramming technology is supporting trenchless installation methods that enable cable landfalls while minimising environmental disruption. 30 BFPA Hydraulics & Pneumatics’ issue-by-issue briefing on current activities and views involving the British Fluid Power Association. 32 COMPRESSED AIR, VACUUM, & GENERATORS 35 BCAS Our regular news and events update on the British Compressed Air Society. 36 SPECIAL REPORTS 46 NEW FACES 47 PRODUCTS & SERVICES DIRECTORY 32 Subscribe for your FREE copy now Printer: Warners, UK © Copyright 2026, DFA Manufacturing Media Ltd ISSN 1366-1981 Audit Bureau of Circulation – Average net circulation 10,015 January 2024 to December 2024
NEWS 6 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk UK manufacturers must embrace AI and invest in skills, says Kyle The UK Business and Trade Secretary, Peter Kyle, has urged Britain’s manufacturers to transform their operations by embracing artificial intelligence, advanced technologies and new export models while investing heavily in skills and training. Speaking at the Make UK annual conference, attended by H&P’s Aaron Blutstein, manufacturers, and business leaders, Kyle outlined a strategy centred on modernising production, strengthening the workforce and expanding global trade opportunities. He said the future of manufacturing would depend on companies adopting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, 3D printing and other advanced systems that could boost productivity and improve the competitiveness of UK industry. However, he warned that technology alone would not secure the sector’s longterm success. “Production is about more than just machinery. It’s about people. We cannot automate our way to prosperity if we neglect skills,” he said. Kyle said the engineers of the future must be as comfortable working with artificial intelligence and data as they are with machinery and design. To support that shift, the Government has pledged over £1bn in sector-specific skills packages aimed at strengthening the workforce in key industries. The funding includes support for apprenticeships, partnerships between industry and further education colleges, and collaboration with universities. The Government has also launched an advanced manufacturing upskilling and reskilling programme, alongside short training courses funded through the growth and skills levy, which are expected to begin in April. If implemented successfully, Kyle said advanced manufacturing could remain one of the UK’s most important drivers of economic growth in the decades ahead. He highlighted that the Government is mobilising support through UK Export Finance to help smaller manufacturers export more goods and services, noting that manufacturing in the 21st Century is not just about exporting goods, but also about exporting targeted and integrated solutions. Goods, he explained, are often bundled with services such as software, data analytics and maintenance contracts: “An aircraft engine today is not merely sold as a piece of hardware, it is sold as a ‘power-bythe-hour’. In a service model, in which performance is monitored digitally and maintenance is predictive rather than reactive. Now that combination of advanced engineering and digital service revision is where the margins are won. It’s where the profits are increasingly being made and it’s where shareholder value is being built.” To succeed, he continued, trade policy, export finance and diplomatic engagement must be aligned with Britain’s manufacturing strengths. The question, he said “is not whether the transformation in manufacturing will occur. It is whether Britain will shape it or be shaped by it. Now I believe that we have every reason to face the future with real genuine optimism. We possess world-class research institutions, we have deep capital markets, we are a global trading nation, and above all we have the capacity to adapt to respond to new technological realities. The strategic imperative therefore is completely clear to me: we must invest in conception, we must modernise production and we must maximise utilisation.” He concluded that by working together the UK can do all of these things, and can compete and win. Picture courtesy of Make UK/ Neil Mansfield Photography Rotec Hydraulics achieves ISO 45001 Certification Rotec Hydraulics Ltd, a leading provider of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical engineering solutions, has announced it has officially achieved the ISO 45001 certification for Occupational Health and Safety Management. This globally recognised accreditation completes a ‘trio’ of ISO International Standards for Rotec, having already been awarded ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management). The achievement follows a rigorous independent audit process, demonstrating Rotec’s unwavering commitment to the highest global benchmarks for safety, quality, and sustainability. Achieving ISO 45001 comes during a period of significant compliance success for Rotec, following the recent successful renewals of its JOSCAR and SafeContractor status. Together, these certifications provide a robust framework for Rotec’s operations across all industry sectors, including marine, aerospace, defence, and manufacturing. Paul Prouse, Managing Director of Rotec Hydraulics, commented: “Achieving ISO 45001, alongside our existing ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications, reflects our team’s commitment to hard work, high standards, and operational excellence. “These global certifications are a foundation for continuous improvement, sustainable development, and offers third-party assurance of operational integrity to our customers and partners. I wish to thank the entire Rotec team for their dedication to making this possible.”
NEWS 8 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk Acteon delivers first MHU4400S hydraulic hammer system to Heerema Menck, Acteon’s Marine Foundations business line, has successfully delivered the first of two MHU4400S hydraulic hammer systems to Heerema Marine Contractors Nederland SE (“Heerema”) under a strategic multimillion-pound agreement. This milestone marks the first phase of a two-hammer supply agreement that reinforces the long-standing collaboration between Heerema and Acteon. The hammers will join Heerema’s extensive fleet of Menck’s systems, further strengthening its position among leading transport and installation (T&I) contractors. The scope of supply includes the hammers with dedicated transport cradles, each accompanied by an innovative Menck Noise Reduction Unit (MNRU), and a custom set of tools, parts, and consumables – enhancing Heerema’s offshore installation capabilities while supporting compliance with stringent environmental regulations. Heerema is a long-time client, partner and operator of Acteon’s products and a key partner in technology developments that have shaped the offshore pile-driving industry. Menck’s flagship MHU4400S hammer continues this tradition, incorporating proven design principles with seamless integration into Heerema’s standards, power and control systems and lifting arrangements. Each hammer system includes the global navigation satellite system and Menck’s proven noise mitigation technology, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and delivery performance across a range of foundation installation campaigns. With just three months between contract award and delivery, Heerema gains early operational benefits while retaining the flexibility to optimise performance ahead of the second phase. The second hammer system is scheduled for delivery in October 2027, supporting Heerema’s phased operational planning. Jochem Scherpenisse, EVP of Marine Foundations at Acteon, said: “This agreement strengthens our collaboration with Heerema and supports their ability to deliver complex offshore projects efficiently and with reduced environmental impact.” Jeroen van Oosten, Chief Commercial Officer at Heerema, said: “By adding the MHU4400S hammer systems, we are strengthening our fleet’s capabilities, ensuring we can serve our clients in the most demanding offshore projects.” PCL celebrates Sheffield heritage Sheffield-based pneumatics specialist PCL is celebrating its deep-rooted connection to the Steel City with the launch of The Sheffield Product Brochure – a new campaign that shines a spotlight on the city that helped shape the company, its people and its globally recognised products. Available online and in print, the brochure forms part of a wider celebration of Sheffield’s industrial heritage and the role the city continues to play in PCL’s design and manufacturing story. For more than eight decades, PCL has designed and manufactured tyre inflation and compressed air products that are trusted by professionals across the automotive, transport and industrial sectors worldwide. Today, that tradition of engineering excellence continues from the company’s Sheffield base. Although PCL products are distributed globally, numerous couplings and inflation products are still manufactured in Sheffield, by a skilled assembly and machinery team, many of whom have dedicated decades to the business. Every coupling undergoes rigorous inhouse testing to ensure reliability, safety and consistency. This reflects PCL’s longstanding commitment to quality, durability and performance. As further testament to this commitment, PCL’s Blue Band couplings are backed by a 5-Year Warranty, and the MK4 tyre inflator is supported by a 2-Year Warranty. Michael Dooker, Area Sales Manager at PCL, explains: “There’s a unique bond between our customers and the PCL brand. Many of the people we work with today actually grew up using our tools, and they take genuine pride in seeing that legacy continue. Knowing that the MK4s and couplings they’ve relied on for decades are still engineered and manufactured right here in Sheffield gives them a level of confidence you just can’t find elsewhere.” The campaign also reflects the longstanding relationships PCL has built with distributors and partners who supply its products across the UK and around the world. By highlighting its Sheffield heritage, PCL is giving its distributor network a powerful story to share with their own customers; one rooted in the city’s reputation for precision engineering, resilience and expertise. For many partners, being able to point to the genuine Sheffield origins behind the products they supply adds an extra layer of authenticity, particularly for customers who value British manufacturing and long-established engineering traditions. The campaign also highlights how tradition and innovation continue to work hand in hand at PCL. Ongoing investment in manufacturing capability, lean processes and new product development ensures the company continues to deliver engineering excellence from its Sheffield base. Dean Battersby, UK Technical Director, commented: “Innovation and operational excellence are fundamental to our ongoing growth and development. We are proud of PCL’s longstanding heritage of manufacturing in Sheffield, which remains central to our identity and operations. “To support this commitment, we invest annually in advanced equipment and process improvements, maintain a robust new product development programme, and place strong emphasis on the continuous training and development of our people. “This approach enables us to consistently deliver exceptional service, high-quality products and innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers both now and in the future.”
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NEWS 10 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk New MTC whitepaper sets out blueprint to boost UK robotics adoption and economic growth The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has released a major new whitepaper outlining how the UK can accelerate the adoption of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) to unlock measurable economic and industrial benefits and strengthen the UK’s productivity. The report sets out a clear pathway to align regional priorities, speed up technology adoption across key sectors, grow a strong base of RAS businesses to boost investor confidence, and lay the groundwork for a coordinated national action plan. The whitepaper, titled ‘Global Robotics Clusters Study: A Blueprint to Accelerate the UK Adoption of Robotics & Autonomous Systems,’ examines how regions including Denmark, Germany, Singapore, Boston and Pittsburgh have built high-impact robotics clusters. These international examples show how long-term policy alignment, strong regional ecosystems and clear industry adoption accelerate proven technologies and deliver sustained economic benefits through higher productivity and more efficient industrial performance. The report contrasts this success with current UK challenges, highlighting persistent barriers that slow the transition from research to widespread industrial use. These include a lower number of robots in operation, slower uptake among SMEs, fragmented support and short funding cycles. By setting these issues against global best practice, the report identifies where UK efforts diverge and outlines a coordinated national and regional blueprint to close the gaps and drive faster adoption. At a national level, the blueprint calls for a UK-wide action plan to align government activity across areas such as adoption, standards and technology translation. Regionally, it recommends establishing a small number of robotics clusters that act as vendor neutral proving grounds, offering shared testbeds and early stage procurement routes to help businesses deploy mature technologies more quickly. Commenting on the whitepaper launch, Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), said: “What stands out from the most successful global clusters is that businesses thrive when the pathway to adoption is simple, proven and properly supported. Too often in the UK, companies are left to navigate fragmented advice and short term initiatives, which slows momentum and adds risk. “This blueprint is about giving businesses a clearer route: consistent support, access to trusted technology partners, and environments where solutions can be tested before committing to capital. This shift will give organisations the confidence to adopt robotics, helping to shorten adoption cycles, reduce costs and make automation a realistic step for businesses of every size while improving productivity across the UK.” To find out more or read the full whitepaper, visit https://www.the-mtc.org/insights/global-robotics-clustersstudy-blueprint-accelerate-uk-adoption-robotics-autonomous. Smart Manufacturing Week returns to Birmingham’s NEC Smart Manufacturing Week (SMW) returns to the NEC Birmingham on 3-4 June 2026. Bringing together a portfolio of events including Smart Factory Expo, Maintec, Drives & Controls and Design + Engineering Expo, Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit and The Manufacturer Top 100 Awards, SMW promises to be a focal point for innovation, insight and industry collaboration. Building on 2025, which the organiser says welcomed more than 13,500 visitors alongside 450+ exhibitors and over 200 speakers, Smart Manufacturing Week 2026 is set to be bigger and more ambitious. With increased international participation expected, the event will deliver an expanded showcase of technologies, ideas and expertise shaping the future of manufacturing. Visitor registration is now open (https://www.smartmanufacturingweek.c om). SMW 2026 will feature a strong lineup of leading global exhibitors, including Beckhoff, Solutions PT, Epicor, Ericsson, Produtech, FANUC, Sage and many more. Alongside many other major industry players, the exhibition floor will provide a comprehensive view of the technologies driving manufacturing forward. New for 2026 is Factory of the Future, a fully immersive, walk-through demonstrator bringing connected, intelligent and sustainable manufacturing to life. Visitors will be able to see live, hands-on demonstrations showcasing Industry 4.0 technologies including robotics, AI, digital twins and predictive maintenance working together to make transformation tangible and bridge the gap between ambition and implementation. Another dynamic new feature for 2026 is Fight Fest, a competitive element located within the Drives & Controls Expo. Taking place on the Accu Bots stand, this high-energy robot fighting competition is aligned with automation and robotics, a core event theme.
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NEWS 12 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk KTR UK appoints David Smith as Managing Director KTR UK Ltd has announced the appointment of David Smith as Managing Director, effective 1 April 2026. He succeeds Geoff Ancliff, who is stepping down after 27 years with the business. Smith brings more than 16 years of experience with the company and has spent the past 13 years as Sales Manager and Off-Highway Specialist for construction equipment. During this time, he has played a central role in developing customer relationships, expanding KTR UK’s presence in key markets and supporting growth across the off-highway and construction sectors. His extensive industry knowledge, combined with technical expertise and leadership experience, is expected to support the company’s continued development and market expansion. KTR UK also paid tribute to Ancliff for his long-standing contribution to the business. Over nearly three decades, he has overseen the strengthening of the company’s market position and helped establish a solid platform for future growth. With Smith taking on the role, the company says it remains focused on building on this foundation while continuing to deliver value to customers, partners and employees. Manufacturing and engineering employers across Leeds are stepping up efforts to tackle the sector’s ongoing skills shortage, as youth unemployment reaches a 10-year high. The Leeds Manufacturing Festival returns for 2026, kicking off with a sold-out launch event this week and showcasing an expanded festival programme designed to connect businesses directly with young people and offer clear routes into careers through T Levels and industry placements, apprenticeships and graduate recruitment. With the unemployment rate for 16-24-year-olds climbing to 16%, the highest in more than a decade, at the end of 2025, festival organisers say there has never been a more crucial time to link young people with employers who are actively recruiting and investing in future talent. The festival is backed by a growing network of manufacturers and engineering firms, including some of the biggest names in manufacturing, as well as many smaller firms, all of whom are opening their doors to students, parents and teaching staff through site visits, careers panels and hands-on experiences. The aim is to help employers build a strong pipeline of skilled workers, while giving young people a better understanding of the vast range of career opportunities available in modern manufacturing. Award winning Leeds firms including textiles manufacturer AW Hainsworth, medical technology businesses Brandon Medical and Kirkstall Precision Engineering, branded workwear manufacturer Involution and Normanton-based Bensons Panels are among the employers backing this year’s festival, joining forces with a host of smaller companies in the drive to attract high quality younger candidates to the industry. Verity Davidge, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Make UK, which supports and champions UK manufacturing, will be the keynote speaker at this week’s launch event. “Manufacturing offers diverse, rewarding, and well-paid careers, with average wages around 8% higher than across the economy as a whole,” said Davidge. “Initiatives like the Leeds Manufacturing Festival have been shown to be incredibly effective in getting that message across to young people. Make UK is really pleased to be involved again this year with the festival, which goes from strength to strength in its scope and ambition. At a time when youth unemployment is rising it is more important than ever to get that message out there.” Ben Wilson, Managing Director of MPM Group and Festival Spokesperson, said: “Leeds Manufacturing Festival is about changing attitudes to manufacturing, bringing employers and students together, giving young people first-hand experience of the industry, and helping businesses connect with individuals who are keen to learn, develop and build a career. “With employers facing a shortage of new, skilled people and young people themselves finding it more difficult than ever to secure viable and sustainable careers, it is vital that we make those connections and show that there are high-quality, long-term career opportunities available right here in our region.” In addition to Davidge, speakers at Wednesday’s launch event will include Elisa Henderson, Early Careers Co-Ordinator at engineering firm RSE, which has two manufacturing facilities in Leeds; and Hannah Wilson, Principal of specialist engineering college UTC Leeds. Joining them will be an industry panel featuring younger employees working in the sector: Kshamya Mittal, a Degree Apprentice in IT Data Analysis at Schneider Electric’s Leeds; Matthew Sadler, a T level Student at UTC Leeds, and Leeds Beckett University Graduate Matthew Kay, now Head of Design and Marketing at packaging firm Greyhound Box. Highlights of this year’s festival include careers showcases that will enable students to meet employers, as well as company visits for FE teaching staff. A two-day STEM Fest, supported by the festival this summer, will see 2000 students from schools across Leeds attend and the ever-popular Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards take place in June, celebrating some of the outstanding younger people working in the industry. For more information and the full Leeds Manufacturing Festival 2026 programme, go to www.leedsmanufacturingfestival.co.uk Leeds Manufacturing Festival returns Manufacturing businesses in Leeds – MPM, RSE Controls, MA Ford Europe
www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 13 Industry urges Government to step up pace of bold skills reforms Britain’s manufacturers are urging the Government to be far bolder on the pace of skills reforms or, risk the future success of the Industrial Strategy being left on the starting grid according to a major report released by Make UK on the Shape of British Industry. The report looks at the current landscape for British manufacturers and, what will determine the sector’s future over the next decade. It shows a sector dominated by the need for access to increasingly higher-level skills and, one that whose competitive position will be focused on investing in digitalisation and AI to bring a step change in productivity. However, the report also contains warnings for Government that the success of its Industrial Strategy will be hampered not just by an inability to find the right skills but, the ability of the current education system to develop them. Access to skills is also seen as the biggest factor in hampering the ability of SMEs to scale up in to globally competitive firms, a longstanding Achilles heel of the UK economy compared to competitors. To begin addressing this critical task, Make UK is calling on the Treasury to release the more than £1 billion of revenue raised from businesses for skills which is not being used to support employer investment in training, which Make UK is describing as effectively an ‘extra tax on business’ (1). According to Make UK, ringfencing the funding for the Growth and Skills Levy and Immigration Skills Charge would help provide two hundred and thirty-five thousand new Apprentice starts. According to Make UK this would be critical in Industry helping Government address the number of young people not in Employment, Education or Training. Rt Hon Robert Halfon, Executive Director of Make UK said: “Manufacturing is the engine room of the UK economy, but that engine cannot run on empty. Locking away £1 billion in unspent levy funds while businesses cry out for talent—and thousands of young people remain out of work or training—is a massive, missed opportunity. It’s time to unleash this funding, turbocharge apprenticeships, and give our manufacturers the skilled workforce to lead a skills transformation. “The future of manufacturers’ success will be won or lost on skills supply. For decades we have seen a slow-burn skills crisis in manufacturing. Now, with a shameful number of young people not in employment or education, fierce global competition for scarce skills, and tens of thousands of workers set to retire, this is a time-critical risk. “Industry is committed to investing in the talent pipeline and helping Government solve the crisis affecting young people but, we need the right policy levers. We must end the constant cycle of reviews telling us what we already know and instead see genuine, radical action. Releasing the £1bn of unused levy and immigration funds for immediate investment in skills and training is the vital first step.” According to the report, 99% of companies say access to skills will be key to future growth plans (almost two thirds saying it will be critical) while half of companies say that finding the right skills is currently their main challenge to growth. For almost a quarter of companies (22%), enhancing skills and training prospects will be the most important measure Government can take to impact their ability to invest and grow. Looking towards the next decade, almost six in ten (59%) companies say a highly skilled workforce should be the vision for UK manufacturing, while a similar number (53%) say workforce development and skills will be their biggest investment for growth in the next decade. However, the report shows that while most manufacturers (53%) believe the education system can deliver the right skills, a significant number, almost four in ten (39%) believe it isn’t capable which, according to Make UK, should be a warning signal to Government. Furthermore, while almost two thirds of companies (64%) said they wanted to scale up in the next decade, access to the right skills is seen as the biggest barrier to SMEs scaling up by almost a third (30%) of companies. Leadership and management skills are seen as critical to this and are a top priority for upskilling existing staff and using revenue already raised from businesses to boost the skills budget would avoid the need for any counterproductive decisions on limiting apprenticeship funding for training. The report also shows that the future landscape of manufacturing will be dominated by increased investments in digital transformation and AI with almost two thirds of companies (65%) planning to make significant investments in this area in the next five years. More than four in ten (42%) say this will critical for their growth prospects and for almost two thirds (65%) their ability to improve productivity. The survey of 148 companies was carried out between 8 and 26 January. The Shape of British Industry A Decade of Transformation
HYDRAULICS Hydraulic hose assemblies are among the most frequently replaced components in fluid power systems, yet failures are often traced not to the hose itself but to how the fitting was swaged. As hydraulic systems operate at higher pressures and duty cycles become more demanding, small deviations in crimp tolerances can quickly translate into leaks, premature wear or, in more serious cases, hose blow-off. Swaging secures the fitting to the hose by compressing a ferrule around the hose reinforcement and the fitting stem. The objective is to achieve a precise crimp diameter that provides a mechanical grip on the reinforcement while maintaining the internal seal. If that diameter falls outside the specified tolerance, the integrity of the assembly is compromised. Under-crimping is one of the more common issues seen in maintenance workshops. When the ferrule is not compressed sufficiently, the fitting may not grip the hose reinforcement properly. Under pressure, particularly where systems experience pulsation or vibration, the hose can move within the ferrule. Over time this movement can lead to leakage or a gradual loosening of the connection. Over-crimping Over-crimping presents a different set of problems. Excessive compression can damage the reinforcement wires within the hose or distort the fitting stem, reducing the structural strength of the assembly. In high-pressure systems, particularly those operating at several hundred bar, this type of damage can significantly shorten hose life. Manufacturers address this by specifying a precise crimp diameter for each hose and fitting combination. These specifications are typically given to within fractions of a millimetre, reflecting the narrow tolerance required to achieve reliable performance. However, maintaining those tolerances consistently requires more than simply selecting the correct swaging machine. Correct die selection and machine calibration are essential. Swaging equipment that has not been calibrated for extended periods can gradually drift from its intended settings, producing crimps that fall outside specification. Many workshops now incorporate routine calibration checks as part of their maintenance procedures to ensure equipment continues to deliver the required accuracy. Measurement of the finished crimp diameter is equally important. Engineers commonly use callipers or purpose-built gauges immediately after assembly to verify that the crimp falls within the recommended range. This step provides a simple but effective quality control check before the hose is installed. Digital swaging machines Digital swaging machines are also helping reduce the likelihood of incorrect settings. Many machines now store crimp parameters for specific hose types, allowing operators to select the correct specification directly from a database rather than adjusting settings manually. This reduces the risk of operator error, particularly in busy workshops where multiple hose types are assembled. These practices align with the guidance set out in BS EN ISO 4413, which emphasises that hydraulic components should be assembled in accordance with manufacturer instructions to ensure safe system operation. For engineers responsible for hydraulic maintenance, the message is straightforward: precision during hose assembly is not optional. While swaging may appear to be a routine workshop task, the accuracy of the process plays a central role in the reliability of hydraulic systems. Ensuring the correct crimp diameter through proper equipment, calibration and verification remains one of the most effective ways to prevent hose-related failures in modern fluid power applications. 14 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk Getting swage tolerances right in hydraulic hose assembly Incorrect swage tolerances remain a common cause of hydraulic hose assembly failure, particularly as systems operate at higher pressures and duty cycles. Ensuring the correct crimp diameter through proper equipment, calibration and verification is essential to maintaining reliable and safe hydraulic connections.
www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 15 STAINLESS STEEL HYDRAULIC HOSE AND PIPE FITTING SPECIALISTS We are the leading manufacturer and stockist of stainless steel hose fittings, tube fittings and adaptors. Call one of our friendly and knowledgeable specialists today to see how we can help. 30 TRADING FOR OVER YEARS CALL 01274 852 066 sales@customfittings.com www.customfittings.com PROUDLY MADE IN THE UK Danfoss Power Solutions has announced the launch of its Aeroquip by Danfoss FC619C Corrugated Suction Hose, designed for hydraulic suction and return lines. With its superior flexibility and resistance to high temperatures, abrasion, and vacuum collapse, FC619C is engineered to extend hose life and simplify installation. The hose is suitable for mobile and industrial equipment applications. FC619C hose features the industry’s tightest corrugated hose bend radius. Its one-to-one ratio bend radius, combined with its reduced force to bend, makes the hose exceptionally easy to handle and install in tight spaces. Built to exceed SAE 100R4 and ISO 18752 standards, FC619C hose is designed to ensure reliable, leak-free performance. The hose is constructed of a nitrile inner tube, helical wire between two textile reinforcement layers, and a DuraTUFF+ abrasion-resistant cover, which offers 100 times the abrasion resistance of standard rubber. The hose features a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to 135°C (-40°F to 275°F) with superior high-temperature performance. Its resistance to collapse and buckling maximises hose lifespan, while its chemical resistance and Class 0 leakage per SAE J1176 provide reliable, leak-free operation. “FC619C is a top-tier suction hose that demonstrates the Danfoss commitment to innovation, quality, and performance that goes beyond the standards,” said Scott Bauman, Product Manager, Aeroquip, Danfoss Power Solutions. “The FC619C hose is the first product we’re introducing in our new Edge Series product line. Encompassing our core Aeroquip hoses, the Edge Series offers advanced abrasion and temperature performance for all hydraulic hose needs, including suction, low-, medium-, and high-pressure applications.” Aeroquip by Danfoss FC619C Corrugated Suction Hose is available in -12 to -48 sizes (inner diameter of 0.75 to 3 inches/19 to 76.2 millimeters) and is qualified for use with Danfoss 1A and 1G fittings. Its working pressure ranges from 60 to 305 psi (4 to 21 bar), depending on size. The hose is MSHA and ABS approved. In addition to hydraulic applications, the hose is suitable for petroleum, fuel, lubricating oil, and water suction and transfer applications. For more information, download the FC619C Corrugated Suction Hose fact sheet at: https://assets.danfoss.com/documents/latest/567176/AM549960561334en-000101.pdf Danfoss launches Aeroquip FC619C corrugated suction hose
HYDRAULICS 16 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk Accurate flow measurement plays a critical role in the performance and reliability of high-pressure fluid systems. Whether in hydraulic power units, lubrication circuits or oilfield chemical injection skids, maintaining precise control of fluid flow is essential for safe and efficient operation. In these environments, inaccurate measurement can affect system efficiency, increase operating costs and, in some cases, introduce safety risks. Flow measurement becomes particularly challenging when systems operate at very high pressures or with fluids that vary in viscosity or contain chemically aggressive components. Under these conditions, meter technologies that perform well in standard industrial applications may struggle to maintain stable, repeatable readings. Titan Enterprises has developed its high-pressure Oval Gear flow meters specifically for these demanding environments. The meters are designed to provide consistent measurement across a range of challenging operating conditions, including high pressures, fluctuating viscosities and chemically aggressive fluids. In hydraulic and fluid power systems, operating pressures can magnify the effects of even minor inefficiencies. Applications such as additive injection, lubrication monitoring and hydraulic actuation all rely on accurate flow measurement to ensure that fluids are delivered at the correct rate. If flow measurement is inaccurate, the consequences can include overdosing of additives, excessive lubricant consumption, premature component wear or reduced energy efficiency. In critical systems this may ultimately lead to unplanned downtime. For these reasons, positive displacement flowmeter technologies continue to be widely used in highpressure applications. Oval gear flowmeters in particular measure fluid volume directly as it passes through the meter, providing a measurement that is largely independent of flow profile or turbulence within the pipework. This measurement principle makes the technology well suited to applications where repeatability and accuracy are essential. Industries that commonly use high-pressure hydraulic systems include aerospace, offshore energy, marine propulsion, heavy equipment and highperformance automotive engineering. In oil and gas operations, flowmeters must often operate continuously while handling high-viscosity fluids or aggressive chemicals under elevated pressures. For components used in high-pressure systems, the stated pressure rating must be supported by robust testing. Pressure testing verifies the structural integrity of the component and ensures that it can operate safely throughout its service life. Titan Enterprises carries out pressure testing at its dedicated in-house test facility as part of the development and production process for its oval gear flow meters. Testing under controlled conditions allows engineers to assess component strength, validate mechanical integrity and confirm compliance with applicable safety standards before products are deployed in the field. At the centre of Titan’s testing capability is a Hydratron pressure test rig capable of testing flowmeters at pressures up to 1,400 bar. This exceeds the maximum operating pressure of the company’s current product range and allows both production testing and development work to be undertaken under extreme conditions. Using this facility, Titan can test and qualify flowmeters rated for pressures up to 950 bar. It also allows development engineers to evaluate how designs perform beyond their nominal limits during the product development phase. This testing capability has supported improvements in several areas of meter design, including gear geometry, materials selection and platform standardisation. According to Titan, these developments have strengthened product robustness and increased component interchangeability across the flowmeter range. The work has also created the potential to increase the maximum operating pressure of standard oval gear flowmeters by approximately 50%. The test facility also supports advanced research and development work, including cavitation simulation and the evaluation of new materials for future high-pressure applications. Titan’s oval gear flowmeters are often selected for applications involving viscous Putting the pressure on flow measurement in high-pressure systems fluids because their measurement performance tends to improve as viscosity increases. The company reports that its meters can achieve measurement performance ranging from approximately ±1 percent down to ±0.1 percent of reading depending on operating conditions. This characteristic makes the technology particularly suitable for applications such as additive injection and lubrication systems, where fluids may fall outside the optimal operating range of other flow measurement technologies. Titan’s oval gear flowmeters are available with pressure ratings from 10 bar up to 950 bar and operating temperatures up to 150 °C. ATEXapproved intrinsically safe versions are also available for use in hazardous environments. In addition to supplying standard flowmeters, Titan works with OEM manufacturers to develop applicationspecific measurement solutions. Customised designs can address particular requirements relating to pressure, viscosity or chemical compatibility. These collaborative projects allow flow measurement systems to be integrated into complex equipment used across sectors such as oil and gas, petrochemical processing, marine engineering and emerging energy technologies. By combining positive displacement measurement technology with highpressure testing and in-house product development, Titan Enterprises aims to provide flow measurement solutions capable of operating reliably in demanding fluid power environments. More information can be found at: www.flowmeters.co.uk
www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 17 Leggett & Platt Hydraulics, a division of Leggett & Platt, has launched the new Integrated Radar Measurement Sensor from Pacoma Hydraulic Technology. The linear-position sensor is mounted inside the cylinder cap and designed for direct stroke measurement of hydraulic cylinders. The new IRM position sensor is a contactless timeof-flight radar system that does not require a piston-mounted internal magnet or gun drilling of the cylinder rod. The fieldserviceable sensor features a compact design, enabling sensor replacement without breaking into the hydraulic system. A single sensor can measure multiple cylinder strokes, resulting in reduced part inventory (no stocking of different lengths). Engineered to exceed the most stringent of Environmental, Electrical, and Electromagnetic Compatibility requirements, the IRM sensor ensures long-term reliability in demanding environments – including construction, material handling, agriculture, utility vehicles, and industrial equipment. The IRM sensor can be powered directly from 12 and 24 VDC battery systems and is available with M12 and DT-compatible connectors. Analog voltage output, digital PWM, and J1939 CANbus communications are available as well. When coupled with a high-quality Pacoma or Precision hydraulic cylinder, the Smart IRM cylinder provides plug-andplay capabilities and allows seamless integration with existing systems without major software changes. With virtually no dead zone, the IRM sensor can be integrated into a hydraulic cylinder without increasing the overall length. The Smart IRM cylinder is designed for applications such as lift, tilt, and steering cylinders. Options also include stabiliser, extension, side shift, and locking cylinders. The IRM sensor and IRM cylinder are available globally. For further information please visit: https://phc-global.com/technology-and-innovation Radar sensor enables direct hydraulic cylinder position measurement
HYDRAULICS 18 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS March 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk Hydraulic systems have a habit of revealing their problems gradually. Long before a pump fails or a valve begins to respond sluggishly, the warning signs are often already circulating within the oil itself. A rise in particle levels, traces of water, subtle changes in viscosity or increasing oxidation can all signal that wear or contamination is developing somewhere inside the circuit. For engineers responsible for keeping plant running, lubrication is therefore more than a routine maintenance consideration; it is a direct indicator of system health. Across UK industry, hydraulic equipment continues to operate under demanding conditions. Construction plant, port cranes, rail maintenance vehicles and manufacturing machinery all rely on hydraulic circuits that must perform reliably under heavy loads and extended operating hours. As system pressures and power densities have increased over the past two decades, the tolerance for poor lubrication practices has decreased. Components such as piston pumps and proportional valves are manufactured with extremely fine internal clearances and depend on clean, stable hydraulic oil to function correctly. Hydraulic oil performs several roles simultaneously. It transmits power throughout the system, lubricates moving surfaces, removes heat generated during operation and protects internal metal components against corrosion. A failure in any one of these functions affects the others. When oil becomes contaminated or chemically degraded, friction increases, temperatures rise and wear accelerates inside pumps, motors and valves. Solid particle contamination remains the most common cause of hydraulic wear. Dirt introduced during maintenance, airborne dust entering through reservoir breathers or wear debris generated inside the system can all damage critical components. Once particles begin circulating through the circuit they create further wear, Managing lubrication and fluid condition in hydraulic systems generating additional debris that progressively worsens the condition of the oil. Contamination control Because of this, contamination control has become one of the most important aspects of hydraulic maintenance. Increasingly, operators are recognising that oil supplied in drums or bulk containers is rarely clean enough to meet the requirements of modern hydraulic systems. Filtering oil during transfer into the machine has become standard practice in many maintenance workshops. Cleanliness levels are normally defined using ISO 4406 particle counting codes. High-pressure hydraulic systems that incorporate piston pumps or servocontrolled valves often require oil cleanliness around ISO 17/15/12 or better to maintain reliable operation. Achieving these levels consistently requires carefully designed filtration strategies. Pressure-line filters provide direct protection for sensitive components, while return-line filters capture wear particles before the oil returns to the reservoir. Large hydraulic systems frequently benefit from offline filtration circuits, sometimes known as kidney-loop filtration. These systems continuously circulate oil through a dedicated filter independent of the main hydraulic circuit. Over time this approach can significantly reduce contamination levels and stabilise fluid cleanliness, particularly in systems with large oil volumes. Water contamination presents a different but equally serious problem. Moisture may enter hydraulic reservoirs through damaged seals, poorly protected breathers or condensation forming inside tanks during temperature fluctuations. Even small quantities of water reduce the lubricating properties of hydraulic oil and accelerate chemical degradation. Oxidation of the base oil increases acidity, leading to varnish formation and corrosion of internal components. To prevent moisture ingress, many Hydraulic oil does far more than transmit power, its condition reflects the health of the entire system, influencing efficiency, component life and reliability. As hydraulic equipment across UK industry operates under higher pressures and stricter environmental expectations, careful management of lubrication and fluid cleanliness has become essential to maintaining performance and preventing costly failures. H&P reports.
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