Fluid Power Institute™

MSOE Fluid Power Institute™

Leading hydraulic fluid motion control research and education since 1962.

6 decades of innovation in fluid power research and development
17,186 square feet of laboratories for pioneering of fluid power research and experiential learning
Custom Power Units designed to replicate real-world conditions
Industry Collaboration for applied research and new technology development
Experiential Learning for MSOE students through real-world projects

Expertise in Hydraulic Component Performance Evaluation including:

Technology	Method	Performance Properties
Pumps	ISO 4409	Volumetric efficiency of positive displacement pumps
Motors	ISO 4392	Low-speed efficiency of hydraulic motors
Fluids	JCMAS P045	Oxidation stability of fluids in a high-pressure piston pump
Tubes	NFPA T2.6.1	Fatigue and burst pressure ratings of hydraulic tubes
Hoses	SAE J343	Fatigue and burst pressure testing of hose assemblies
Couplings	ISO 18869	Pressure decay through quick disconnect couplings
Valves	SAE J2470	Lock sensitivity of hydraulic valve to particulate contaminants
Rod seals	ISO 7986	Cylinder rod seal endurance testing
Adapters	ISO 19879	Cyclic endurance of 37° flare fittings
Cylinders	SAE J1334	Dynamic durability and friction in hydraulic cylinders
Wiper seals	SAE J1195	Cylinder rod wiper seal ingression test

Fluid Power Education

Graduate Certificate in Fluid Power

MSOE’s Graduate Certificate in Fluid Power is designed for recent graduates and professionals interested in developing in-depth engineering skills in the field of hydraulic fluid power and motion control.

Professional Education

MSOE offers eight educational seminars and certification courses through our Center for Professional Education.

Meet the Director — Paul Michael
The Fluid Power Institute™ (FPI) has been a leader in hydraulic fluid power innovation since 1962. We specialize in evaluating new fluid power technologies using customized power units that replicate real-world conditions with precision. Our applied research services help industry partners evaluate and refine new technologies while providing hands-on learning opportunities for MSOE students. Each year, graduate and undergraduate students gain invaluable experience with fluid power components, electronics, controls, sensors, data analysis, and systems in our labs. We’re always looking for new collaboration opportunities—whether it’s testing cutting-edge technology or sponsoring student projects. Let’s explore how we can work together to advance innovation in the great field of Fluid Power!

Industry Partnerships

We are a member of several industry organizations. Through our 30-year membership to the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA), we contribute to youth outreach, ongoing/professional education, and industry advisory committees. Our staff also contributes material to organizations like ASTM and ISO.

Fluid Power Institute™ Research Capabilities

Evaluation, Research & Analysis

Tests we perform include, but are not limited to, performance, efficiency, endurance, fatigue and burst. Additionally, we provide clients with custom assessments for components and systems using finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics and other modelling programs.

Tribology

In our tribology laboratory, we have developed specialized analytical tools such as particle counting, ferrography, laser particle imaging, atomic force microscopy, stereomicroscopy and more. Clients of these services include both commercial and governmental institutions. A notable portion of our research and development on fluid power efficiency is funded by the National Science Foundation.