The world of fluid power technology is constantly evolving, driven by innovations in material science and strategic thinking about cost of ownership. In a recent episode of the Fluid Power Forum, Eric Lanke sat down with Mitch Van Remortel, Strategic Channel Manager at Charter Casting, to explore the intricacies of material selection and its broader implications in the industry. This insightful conversation sheds light on how choosing the right materials can significantly impact performance, cost, and sustainability.
Understanding Material Selection
Material selection plays a pivotal role in the design and function of fluid power systems. Mitch elucidates that the process involves balancing mechanical performance, manufacturability, and life cycle performance. These factors are essential to ensure products are not only effective but also cost-efficient over their lifespan.
Mechanical performance is about strength, wear resistance, and fatigue life, all crucial in the high-pressure environments typical of fluid power systems. Manufacturability focuses on machining efficiency and production consistency, while life cycle performance considers durability and maintenance needs.
The Importance of Total Cost of Ownership
One of the key takeaways from the discussion is the importance of evaluating the total cost of ownership. Organizations often fall into the trap of focusing solely on upfront material costs. Mitch argues that this approach can overlook significant long-term savings and efficiencies.
Total cost of ownership includes not just the raw material cost but also machining time, tooling wear, scrap rates, assembly cost, and maintenance. A compelling example shared by Mitch involved a frack pump manufacturer that switched from low carbon steel to a cast iron product like Dura-Bar. This change resulted in annual savings of $200,000 and a 60,000-pound reduction in material weight, highlighting the financial benefits of a broader approach to material selection.
System-Level Implications and Collaboration
The conversation also delved into the concept of system-level implications. Material choices don't just affect individual components; they can influence the behavior and reliability of entire systems. For instance, using a material with better vibration damping can enhance the longevity and performance of parts like hydraulic cylinders, impacting the overall health of the fluid power system.
Mitch emphasized the need for cross-functional collaboration within organizations. Decisions on material selection should not be confined to engineering teams but should involve supply chain, operations, and other departments. This holistic approach ensures that materials are chosen with the entire system and business outcomes in mind.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Material Science
The podcast wrapped up with a discussion on future trends in material science. Advances in AI and additive manufacturing are driving data-driven decision-making and enhancing the material selection process. These technologies allow for faster evaluation and optimization of materials, providing companies with a competitive edge.
Manufacturers are also prioritizing sustainability, focusing on the energy consumption and environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle. The integration of AI promises to accelerate this journey, enabling more efficient, sustainable, and informed material choices.
In Conclusion
This episode of the Fluid Power Forum highlights the profound impact of thoughtful material selection on cost, performance, and sustainability in the fluid power industry. As companies continue to navigate the complexities of material science, the insights shared by Mitch van Remortel offer valuable guidance. By considering the total cost of ownership and embracing cross-disciplinary collaboration, businesses can make more informed decisions that bolster their operational and financial performance.
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.
