Hydraulics is a relatively new technology used in power transmission, which may be adapted to market requirements. The use of hydraulic drives, as well as hydraulic open loop and closed loop control systems has gained in importance in the field of automation. Nowadays, it is unusual to find an automatic pro-
duction procedure which does not use hydraulic components. However, in spite of the wide range of applications, there are still many more to be found. Hence, manufacturers are expanding their experience by referring to literature and attending training courses. This manual Basic Principles and Components of Hydraulics (from the series The Hydraulics Trainer) should aid you in gaining knowledge of hydraulics systems. It is not only intended to be used as a training text, but also as an aid to the hydraulics system operator. This trainer deals with the basic principles and functions of hydraulic components. Relationships
between functions are clarified by means of numerous tables, illustrations and diagrams. This manual is therefore an invaluable reference aid for everyday work. This manual is the result of collective work by a group of authors, to whom we are most grateful. We would also like to thank Mr Rudi A. Lang, who acted as project manager and editor. In addition, Mr Herbert Wittholz must be thanked for his careful proofreading of the chapter on basic principles and also for his many useful comments.