Fluid Power Forum

National Fluid Power Association
  • 4.8 (5)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

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.

  1. Conquering Our Mighty Seas: Modern Marine Motion Control

    APR 6

    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

    24 min
  2. Maximizing Comfort and Control: Control Solutions for Modern Operators

    APR 2

    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.

    4 min
  3. Integrated by Design: The Newest in Productivity and Hybrid Hydraulics

    APR 1

    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.

    5 min
  4. Sensors, Systems Integration, and Customer Collaboration: Integrated Systems Shaping Modern Automation

    MAR 31

    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.

    5 min
  5. From Gear Pumps to Advancements in Hydraulic Steering: The Newest in Flow Control Innovation

    MAR 30

    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.

    3 min
  6. Sealing, Shielding, and Staying Clean: The Hydraulic Protection Playbook

    MAR 27

    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.

    6 min
  7. Building the Valves of the Future: Reliable Valves for Performance and Precision

    MAR 26

    Building the Valves of the Future: Reliable Valves for Performance and Precision

    At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Rick Guidish of Vis Hydraulics about his CONEXPO experience, opportunity to make and see industry connections, and the company's exhibit highlights. Vis Hydraulics is expanding its proportional valve offerings to support the hydraulic industry's shift toward electronic control, focusing first on proportional pressure control valves such as pilot operated relief valves, direct acting relief valves, and pressure reducing valves, as well as plans for expansion in the future. Guidish also promotes Vis Hydraulics' newly opened North American operations in Franklin, Wisconsin, which will warehouse product and manufacture finished valves to reduce tariff impacts, improve logistics, and shorten lead times for U.S. customers. Learn more at www.vishydraulics.com. #ProportionalValves #HydraulicInnovation #ManufacturingExpansion 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, Rick Guidish, at rick.guidish@vishydraulics.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.

    4 min
  8. Software-Defined Hydraulics: The Award Winning GenSteer System

    MAR 25

    Software-Defined Hydraulics: The Award Winning GenSteer System

    At the 2026 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Trade Show, guest host Ben Brown interviews Ben Holter of Husco in the NFPA's first-ever Ben Show. Join to learn about industry trends and Husco's largest-ever CONEXPO booth, highlighting growing demand in the compact equipment market and electrification of hydraulics. Holter spotlights Husco's award-finalist GenSteer steer-by-wire system, positioned as a cost-acceptable platform for software-defined vehicles that enables feature changes via software and supports automation and improved operator feel and comfort. He explains GenSteer's fail-functional safety approach, using a motor-as-generator in failure mode to maintain steering power without extensive redundant batteries and controllers. Husco also features compact electrohydraulic products such as the M Series (described as the world's smallest electro proportional valve), spool position sensing for precise control, and the MX7 valve family (70–250 L/min). Learn more at husco.com. #FluidPowerForum #GenSteer #Electrification #CompactHydraulics 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, Ben Holter, at Ben.Holter@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.

    6 min
See All (205)

4.8
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    National Fluid Power Association
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    205
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Fluid Power Forum

You Might Also Like