Fluid Power Forum

National Fluid Power Association

Dive into the world of hydraulic and pneumatic innovation with Fluid Power Forum—your go-to podcast for all things fluid power in engineering and industry. Each episode features in‑depth conversations with experts from manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery, exploring technology breakthroughs, best practices, system optimization, and real‑world case studies. Discover how fluid power systems shape automation, energy efficiency, and industrial design.

Tune in to hear more about:
1: Insights on hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, circuit design, pressure control, and more.
2: Expert advice on fluid power maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety procedures.
3: Interviews with engineers, OEMs, suppliers, and thought leaders.
4: Real-world projects showcasing energy-efficient technologies and automation strategies.
5: Tips for applying fluid power innovations in industries like agriculture, robotics, and construction.

Whether you are in the fluid power industry, an OEM looking for solutions, or a hobbyist, the Fluid Power Forum delivers practical knowledge to elevate your skills and stay ahead in fluid power technology.

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Friday · 5 min
GenSteer: Rethinking Steering for Off-Highway Machines
At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo in Chicago, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Tim Opperwall of Husco about the value of iVT for connecting customers, suppliers, and competitors, and what Husco is exhibiting at the show. Opperwall highlights Husco's GenSteer steer-by-wire technology, a CONEXPO Next Level Awards first-place winner, shown in a live demo with updates based on OEM and end-user feedback. GenSteer is positioned as a safer, simpler, more cost-feasible approach that uses operator energy as fail-functional backup in loss-of-power or controller scenarios, removes hydraulics from the cab, and enables compact, integrated steering architecture—"redundancy without replication." He also mentions Husco products including MX7 and M Series solenoids, and directs listeners to husco.com. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Tim Opperwall, at timothy.opperwall@husco.com. Learn more about Husco at husco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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Thursday · 4 min
Haptics, Hydraulics, and the Future of Machine Operation
At the 2026 iVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Ken Baker of Bailey International about trends and exhibits at iVT, noting the show's evolution from electronics toward full systems and a growing presence of hydraulics, valves, and subsystem valve suppliers. Baker highlights Bailey International's booth lineup, including standard controls, hydraulic products, and new closed-loop systems, plus an innovative software-driven concept joystick that provides haptic and mechanical feedback without fixed mechanical limits, enabling configurable detents and gearshift-like positions. He explains that advanced feedback can support functional safety by helping operators keep attention outside the cab while still receiving control cues. Listeners are directed to baileyintl.com and Bailey's sales and applications teams for technical support. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Ken Baker, at ken.baker@baileyhydraulics.com. Learn more about Bailey International at baileyintl.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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Wednesday · 6 min
From Reservoir to Pump: Measuring Aeration through Sonar Technology
At the 2026 IVT Off-Highway Expo, guest host Ben Brown interviews James Oftelie of AM Tech LLC (Aeration Measurement Technologies) about exhibiting at IVT and the value of trade-show networking. Oftelie explains AM Tech's innovation for mobile hydraulics: a passive, acoustic sonar-based method that instruments a machine to quantify entrained air by listening to sound transmission in the suction line from reservoir to pump. By measuring changes in speed of sound attenuation and processing the signal with an algorithm, the system produces an aeration number to support hydraulic system design, troubleshooting, optimization, testing, and reservoir performance validation without adding hardware beyond standard transducers. He directs listeners to amtechllc.com and AM Tech's YouTube and Instagram for more information. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, James Oftelie, at james.oftelie@amtechllc.com. Learn more about Aeration Measurement Technologies at Aeration Measurement Technologies, LLC. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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Tuesday · 4 min
Smarter Hose Protection for Modern Mobile Equipment
At the 2026 IVT Off-Highway Expo, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Luke Ferranti of CAPlugs about his first IVT experience and what the company is exhibiting for the off-highway hydraulics market. Ferranti highlights IVT's mix of heavy equipment and technology advances, including joystick control applications relevant to product protection. CAPlugs showcases its hose protection solutions, emphasizing installation efficiency through options like pre-cut segments and a bundler tool for wrapping. He also discusses customization features such as different colors and sleeve markings to support end-user needs. Listeners are directed to connect via LinkedIn, follow CAPlugs on LinkedIn, and visit caplugs.com for literature, the full catalog, and custom work details. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Luke Ferranti, at luke.ferranti@caplugs.com. Learn more about CAPlugs at caplugs.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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#186
Monday · 27 min
Rods, Fluids, and Seals: The Three Pillars of Leak Prevention
In this Fluid Power Forum episode, host Eric Lanke interviews Trevor Combs, global technical manager for off-highway at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, about preventing external hydraulic leakage in linear rod applications using a system-level approach emphasized in NFPA's whitepaper "Preventing Leaks in Fluid Power Systems." Combs explains how leakage is driven by interactions among the counter surface (rod substrate, coating, and surface finish), the hydraulic fluid (viscosity index, temperature range, cleanliness/contamination control, lubrication), and the seal system (geometry, materials, and multiple components like primary/secondary seals, wear rings, and wipers). He discusses balancing lubrication film versus leak prevention across extension and retraction strokes, key variables such as pressure, speed, duty cycle, and surface roughness beyond Ra, and innovations including back-pumping seals, pressure-relief buffer seals with integrated check valves, and venting wipers. Future focus areas include surface treatments, moving away from chrome, PFAS-free materials, compatibility with sustainable fluids, and predictive maintenance using customer data. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Read the full whitepaper at the NFPA Technology Reports website. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Trevor Combs, at trevor.combs@trelleborg.com. Learn more about Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, here. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #Seals #SurfaceFinishes #Engineering #FluidPowerTechnology
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#185
August 10 · 39 min
10 Years of the Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge!
Host Eric Lanke commemorates the 10-year anniversary of NFPA's Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, where university teams simulate, design, build, test, and race hydraulics- and pneumatics-powered vehicles, judged on efficiency, speed/acceleration, regenerative braking, and sustained performance; the program hit a record 32 participating universities. Guests Dr. Jake Swanson (Minnesota State University, Mankato), Dr. Brian Steward (Iowa State University), and longtime technical liaison Ernie Parker (recently retired from Hennepin Technical College) discuss how the competition's resources and industry mentoring support student learning, how the challenge has scaled to multiple sites and improved rules over time, and common hurdles such as design, component sizing, ordering and time management, and limited hands-on shop skills. They share memorable competition moments and advise new teams to start early, ask mentors for help, and plan extra time for debugging, emphasizing workforce development and pathways into the fluid power industry. To get involved, contact Mary Pluta, at mpluta@nfpa.com. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with Ernie Parker, at ernieparker1@msn.com. Connect with Dr. Brian Steward, at bsteward@iastate.edu. Connect with Dr. Jake Swanson, at jacob.swanson@mnsu.edu. Learn more about the Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, Hennepin Technical College, Iowa State University, and Minnesota State University, Mankato. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #WorkforceDevelopment #VehicleChallenge #Engineering #Education
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#184
July 27 · 22 min
Leak Prevention: Protecting Performance, Reliability, and Reputation
Fluid Power Forum host Eric Lanke interviews Paul Michael, director of the Fluid Power Institute at Milwaukee School of Engineering, about NFPA's whitepaper "Preventing Leaks in Fluid Power Systems." Michael shares his background in lubricant formulation and hydraulic testing and describes MSOE's hands-on fluid power education. The discussion explains why leak prevention is critical to hydraulics because pressurized fluid stresses connectors, hoses, tubes, and seals, affecting reputation and sustainability. A committee of about 25 contributors developed the report and conducted a voice-of-the-customer survey, with 75% reporting leakage problems tied to customer satisfaction, downtime, and warranty costs. Adapters and connectors were cited as the largest component-related leakage source, with 31 causes identified across design, installation, mounting, selection, and material compatibility. Michael emphasizes application-driven design to minimize maintenance, the importance of standards (including SAE hose and performance tests), and avoiding tapered pipe threads in favor of modern straight-thread and O-ring sealing approaches. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Read the full whitepaper at the NFPA Technology Reports website. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Paul Michael, at michael@msoe.edu. Learn more about MSOE, at www.msoe.edu. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #Hydraulics #Sealing #LeakPrevention #Innovation #NFPAWhitepaper
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#178
July 13 · 20 min
From Alloy to Application: Engineering Materials for High-Load Applications
Host Eric Lanke welcomes Ehren Polheber, corporate fluid power engineer at Scot Forge, to discuss how material science and selection affect hydraulic systems and fluid power component manufacturing. Polheber shares his 22-year fluid power background and 14-year tenure designing and troubleshooting large forging equipment, and explains that correct material grades and heat treatments are critical to avoid catastrophic failures under high loads while enabling lightweight designs in mobile equipment. He outlines a selection process based on applied loads, operating conditions (fatigue, temperature, corrosion), trade-offs (strength, machinability), and cost of ownership, noting that supplier-customer collaboration is essential. The episode compares casting and forging: castings offer near-net complex shapes at lower cost, while forgings reduce porosity and align grain flow for high-stress, mission-critical hydraulic applications. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Ehren Polheber, at epolheber@scotforge.com. Learn more about the company at www.scotforge.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EngineeringExcellence #SystemOptimization #MaterialScienceJourney
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#182
June 29 · 35 min
Duty Cycles, Machine Learning, and Energy Efficiency: Optimizing Electrified Hydraulics
Host Eric Lanke interviews Barun Acharya, system engineering manager for electrification at Parker Hannifin, about energy efficiency gains from electrified hydraulics and insights tied to NFPA's white paper and a CONEXPO technology conference. Acharya describes how emissions rules, noise limits, and ESG mandates are driving electrification, and outlines key challenges including unclear duty cycles (addressed via energy mapping), power-density mismatch between hydraulic and electric actuators, complex system integration (CAN, software, EMC, operator feel), and revealed hydraulic noise once diesel is removed. He explains that traditional inefficiency is largely the engine–pump coupling, while smart hybrid architectures use batteries to buffer transients and run engines near optimal BSFC. He details a hybrid backhoe case with engine downsizing and indoor electric operation, enabled by sensors, data, and machine-learning use for duty-cycle classification, predictive maintenance, and operator coaching. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Barun Acharya, at bacharya@parker.com. Learn more about the company at www.parker.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #HybridArchitecture #Electrification
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#181
June 15 · 32 min
Advancing Technologies for Fluid Power: Controls, IoT, and Data
In this Fluid Power Forum episode, NFPA host Eric Lanke shares a recorded NFPA webinar on advancing technologies for controls, IoT, and data—featuring Scanreco Director of Sales Andy Gray. Gray explains how Scanreco's professional radio remote controls serve OEMs and system integrators for mobile and industrial machinery in harsh environments, translating operator intent into hydraulic actuator motion from simple on/off to highly proportional control to improve safety, precision, and productivity. Discussion covers operating at safer distances, integrating camera feedback and Human Machine Interface, HMI, information onto remotes, and the growing role of assisted operation and autonomy across applications like agriculture, forklifts, drilling, demolition, forestry, and fire equipment. Gray describes field research with operators, integration via CAN and software tools, OEM preference for open integration ecosystems, and progress to unify remote control, advanced displays, and onboard computing amid trends of digitalization, electrification, automation, and usability. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Andy Gray, at andy.gray@scanreco.com. Learn more about the company at www.scanreco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #Controls #Safety #Autonomy #CID
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#180
June 1 · 26 min
Material Matters: Saving Money with Smarter Material Selection and System Design
Host Eric Lanke welcomes Mitch Van Remortel, strategic channel manager at Charter Casting, to discuss material science innovations relevant to fluid power and why material selection affects total cost of ownership. Van Remortel outlines his background and explains Charter Casting's focus on large, complex iron castings, emphasizing consistency, quality, and an engineering-led approach. He describes key material-selection factors—mechanical performance, manufacturability, and life-cycle performance—and notes that early material choices are hard to change later. He highlights cost drivers beyond raw material price, citing a frack pump conversion from low-carbon steel that saved about $200,000 annually and reduced weight by roughly 60,000 pounds. The episode covers gray vs. ductile iron characteristics, system-level impacts like vibration damping in hydraulic cylinders, channel/distribution collaboration, and future trends including data-driven tools and AI in material evaluation. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Mitch Van Remortel, at vanremortelm@chartercasting.com. Learn more about the company at www.chartercasting.com Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #Innovation #Engineering #MaterialSciences
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#179
May 18 · 30 min
Architecting Efficiency: Battery, Hybrid, and Electrohydraulic Systems
Eric Lanke hosts Philippe Reynolds, director of Poclain Hydraulics' Electromobility program, in an NFPA Fluid Power Forum episode tied to the NFPA whitepaper "Energy Efficiency Gains from Electrified Hydraulics." Reynolds explains Poclain's shift from component supplier to system partner integrating hydraulics, electric drives, power electronics, sensors, and software into mechatronic solutions, including electric drive units like the eWheel for compact equipment. He outlines electrification challenges—system complexity, energy and thermal management, architecture selection (battery electric, hybrid electrohydraulic with energy recovery, and series hybrid for heavier machines), and the need for decentralized power-on-demand designs to boost efficiency. The discussion highlights duty-cycle-based sizing, liquid cooling to control operating conditions, lessons adapted from automotive and other industries, and the growing importance of functional safety, compliance, plug-and-play integration, and supplier–OEM partnerships. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Be sure to check out the full report here. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Philippe Reynolds, at philippe.reynolds@poclain.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification #SystemArchitectures
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#178
May 4 · 32 min
Rethinking Agriculture: Hybrid Machines, AI, and the Future of Hydraulics
In this episode of the Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Andrew Johnson, co-founder of HeavyTech, about building affordable hybrid and electrified off-highway equipment from the ground up. Johnson shares his background in a family O-Ring distribution business and how NFPA connections provided a foundation for HeavyTech's mission. This company is developing original compact track loader, articulated loader, and mini excavator designs, with the first prototype – a diesel-electric hybrid compact track loader – about 80% complete and being build in Fort Wayne, Indiana using crowdfunding support. He highlights point-of-use electric hydraulic pumps, thermal management innovations, and an AI camera-based system to determine attachment position without traditional sensors, enabling operator assistance and potential automation. Johnson argues hybridization best balances energy efficiency, duty cycle, and competitive pricing for agriculture and construction users. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Andrew Johnson, at andrew@shelfawarevmi.com. Learn more about the company at heavytech.ai. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification #AgricultureTech
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#177
April 20 · 34 min
From Engines to Electrons: Designing Hydraulics for Electrification
In this episode of Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Marcus Herrera, advanced systems application engineer at HYDAC, about the NFPA white paper, "Energy Efficiency Gains from Advanced Hydraulics," and what OEMs should consider when replacing internal combustion engines with batteries or fuel cells. Herrera explains why electrification brings uncertainty around performance, charging infrastructure, supply chain maturity, cost, and market acceptance, and why hydraulic efficiency becomes more critical when onboard energy is fixed and recharge times are long. Using the paper's efficiency comparisons, he notes that improving hydraulic efficiency can have more than double the impact on usable energy in electrified machines, affecting shift length and battery size. They discuss major loss sources such as metering losses, strategies like proportional control, and how sensors, controls, and software enable user-assist automation that improves efficiency, safety, and productivity. Be sure to check out the full report here. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Marcus Herrera, at Marcus.Herrera@hydacusa.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #EnergyEfficiency #Electrification
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#176
April 6 · 24 min
Conquering Our Mighty Seas: Modern Marine Motion Control
In this episode of Fluid Power Forum, host Eric Lanke interviews Jon Frey, head of product area new business at Bosch Rexroth, about hydraulic motion control solutions that help "conquer the seas" by improving vessel and load stability in harsh maritime environments. Frey explains how hydraulics power and precisely control marine systems such as winches, cranes, steering gears, thrusters, stabilizers, mooring/constant-tension control, and active heave compensation (AHC). He describes AHC as using sensors like accelerometers and motion reference units (MRUs), responsive hydraulic winches, and control algorithms—often integrated with broader vessel control architectures and dynamic positioning—to keep suspended loads (e.g., ROVs or drilling equipment) stable relative to the seabed despite wave-induced heave. Frey also highlights design challenges including dynamic response, corrosion resistance, environmental forces, and future advances like AI/machine learning, real-time analytics, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance. Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our host, Eric Lanke, at elanke@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Jon Frey, at jon.frey@boschrexroth-us.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA. #FluidPowerForum #advancedsensors #motioncontrol #maritimehydraulics
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April 2 · 4 min
Maximizing Comfort and Control: Control Solutions for Modern Operators
At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Al Rebholz of J.R. Merritt Controls about their long-running CONEXPO experience and the value of meeting existing and new customers. Rebholz highlights three key exhibits: the Evolve CAN-based controller (released in 2023) with versatile handle choices and configurable layouts using buttons, roller switches, and toggle switches; a new CAN-based or hall-effect-output foot pedal; and the Merritt Flex operator chair system featuring ergonomic consoles, flexible console population options, and improved operator comfort for longer operation. He directs listeners to the company website, www.jrmerritt.com, and LinkedIn for updates and to schedule onsite meetings. #FluidPowerForum #PrecisionControls #Ergonomics #Versatility Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Al Rebholz, at arebholz@jrmerritt.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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April 1 · 5 min
Integrated by Design: The Newest in Productivity and Hybrid Hydraulics
Recorded on the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 show floor, guest host Ben Brown interviews Brandon Tauer of Nott Company about industry innovation and Nott's exhibit. Tauer highlights advancements in controls, efficiency, electrification, and hybrid hydraulics, noting their impact on productivity in fluid power. He explains that Nott Company, nearing its 150-year anniversary, is showcasing its role as a provider of engineering, integrated solutions, and supply chain support for mobile and industrial markets. Nott's booth features a mini excavator, mini skid steer, and a conveyor system demonstrating manufactured fuel systems (including a rotational molded tank), electric and electro-hydraulic systems, controls, hydraulics, sealing technology, and belting, emphasizing customer engagement to solve problems and deliver complete integrated solutions. Learn more at www.nottco.com #FluidPowerForum #Electrification #SystemIntegration #CustomerEngagement Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Brandon Tauer, at btauer@nottco.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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March 31 · 5 min
Sensors, Systems Integration, and Customer Collaboration: Integrated Systems Shaping Modern Automation
At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, Fluid Power Forum guest host Ben Brown interviews Sven Schnetzler of Camozzi Automation about strong show engagement with new and existing customers and market-driving innovation, especially new sensor technology for linear actuation using simplified, low-volume radar-based position sensing seen in hydraulic cylinders. Schnetzler describes Camozzi's booth featuring its full pneumatic product line—fittings, cylinders, valves, and FRL regulators and filters—and highlights new specialized products for off-highway tire inflation systems that actively control tire pressure based on terrain. He explains that while hydraulics dominate off-highway equipment, pneumatics are widespread, including piloting valve blocks, and Camozzi focuses on system integration by combining pneumatics with electronics and sensor technology, emphasizing quality and close customer support. Learn more at www.camozzi.com. #FluidPowerForum #pneumatics #systemintegration #sensors Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Sven Schnetzler, at sschnetzler@camozzi.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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March 30 · 3 min
From Gear Pumps to Advancements in Hydraulic Steering: The Newest in Flow Control Innovation
At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Scott Mason of FluiDyne Fluid Power about heavy booth traffic and customer conversations focused on old gear pumps and private label products. Mason highlights FluiDyne's new hydraulic steering control units for fully hydraulic steering systems with no mechanical linkage, featuring an orbital valve with omnidirectional flow control and customizable configurations. He also introduces FluiDyne's new 200 series orbital steering valves and a new line of aluminum gear pumps, and directs listeners to fluidynefp.com and social media for more information. #FluidPowerForum #CONEXPO #HydraulicSteering #OrbitalValves Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Scott Mason, at scott@fluidynefp.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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March 27 · 5 min
Sealing, Shielding, and Staying Clean: The Hydraulic Protection Playbook
From the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG show floor, guest host Ben Brown interviews Luke Ferranti of Caplugs about trends in hydraulic system routing, bundling, protection, and identification, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and keeping equipment running. Luke highlights Caplugs' hydraulic protection offerings showcased at their booth, including spiral wrap, pig's tail, polyester sleeve, and threaded protection service plugs, along with standard catalog items. Common needs discussed include sourcing spiral wrap and expanding packaging options for threaded protection (caps vs. plugs) to support everyone from local hydraulic shops to major OEM dealer/MRO operations, helping prevent leaks and contamination through sealing and cleanliness practices. Learn more at caplugs.com or via LinkedIn. #ContaminationControl #HydraulicSealing #Caplugs Subscribe to the Fluid Power Forum today to never miss an episode. The podcast is available on all of your favorite podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio. Connect with our guest host, Ben Brown, at bbrown@nfpa.com. Connect with our guest, Luke Ferranti, at Luke.Ferranti@caplugs.com. Find and share more interesting fluid power technologies and unique applications using #onlyfluidpowercan and follow podcast and other fluid power industry-related updates at @TheNFPA.
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