SwRI: Hydraulic Systems Design and Development, Support Services

Hydraulics expertise at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is augmented by specialists in:

• Materials analysis

• Fluids analysis

• Experiment design

• Data analysis

Materials Analysis and Testing

Specialized laboratories support analysis of materials to diagnose failures and applications research in advanced materials and coatings.

Fluids Analysis and Research

Extensive laboratory tests provide detailed information about fluid conditions and properties. SwRI conducts standardized fluid wear tests and evaluates fluid filters for performance and durability. A state-of-the-art fuel and chemical processing facility processes and blends special fluids.

Experimental Methods Design

To determine hydraulic component and system parameters and characteristics, SwRI engineers prepare test schedules to replicate actual operating conditions. Experimental runs are minimized while maximizing the value of the data by using techniques such as:

• Fractional factorial screening

• Taguchi techniques

• Data Analysis

All data are examined for appropriateness, accuracy, calibration, and repeatability. To characterize component performance, SwRI applies statistical methods such as:

• Response surface modeling

• Analysis of variance

For more information about hydraulic systems design and development support services capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Glenn Wendel at gwendel@swri.org or 210-522-2622.