Research and development of fluid power elements and systems made from plastics

Abstract The paper concerns the innovative research area “Fluid power elements and systems made of plastics”. The aim of the work was to present original research on the topic of design, manufacturing and examination of plastic fluid power elements and systems, in a comprehensive way. It is presented in two stages. At the first stage, a set of prototype hydraulic components from plastics are presented. These are: gerotor pump, relief and on/off valves, and cylinder. A prototype hydraulic system from plastics was built from these components. At the second stage, the acquired knowledge and experience had been used for the development of advanced components and in experimental hydraulic axis. The results of the work include new knowledge in areas such as plastics selection, detailed design and manufacturing of components, experimental testing, and the formulation of special design rules arising from the use of plastics. In addition, a system of fluid power components made from plastics was developed, capable of operating at working pressures ranging from 3 to 6.3 MPa. The work also led to the creation of new hydraulic components, including a microgerotor pump with an electromagnetic drive and a hydraulic axis incorporating plastic elements. The directions of development of the research area “Fluid power elements and systems made of plastics” have been presented.