Energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important consideration in the design of fluid power systems.

In response, the hydraulic tooling systems of specialised fastening systems distributor Avlock International incorporate a power-saving mode that activates after 15 seconds of inactivity, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption.

This feature not only helps conserve energy but also helps extend equipment life, says Avlock MD Tommy Holmes.

There is a growing emphasis across African industries on energy efficiency, automation and sustainability. This shift has prompted the company to align its product development with the subsequent evolving market demands, with its HydraPac hydraulic power units specifically engineered with this objective in mind, he explains.

HydraPac hydraulic power units are available in 220 V, 380 V and 525 V variants.

“A unique feature is that the motors run only on demand. When you close the tool trigger, it remains running while a series of fasteners are driven. At the end of the series, if there is no further demand for a preselected (variable) time, the unit switches off; but a touch of the tool trigger starts the unit instantly.”

This, in turn, helps with conserving power and enhancing system life.

The system is also designed to limit air and hydraulic leakages. This is particularly important, as air leaks in pneumatic tools are fairly common and can result in significant energy loss and elevated operating costs, says Holmes.

He highlights that Avlock is actively exploring smart monitoring capabilities as part of its broader drive to enhance operational efficiency. Load-sensing technology, for example, enables tools to detect when full power is unnecessary, adjusting output accordingly.

This functionality not only improves energy efficiency but also mitigates wear, thereby extending equipment longevity.

“Our tools include load-sensing controls that shut off the solenoid valve and redirect low-pressure oil flow, improving efficiency.”

Holmes confirms that many of Avlock’s latest products are equipped with digital cycle counters, thereby enabling compatibility with Industry 4.0. systems.

Avlock is also customising tools to suit industry-specific applications, while its “pneumatic tools also come with extended nose assemblies for difficult-to-reach spots”.

Moreover, he notes rising demand for durable, portable hydraulic tooling in sectors such as mining and remote infrastructure development.

For off-site work, Avlock offers diesel-powered rigs designed for remote applications. These portable systems are ideal for infrastructure and mining projects located far from towns or power grids, as the diesel rigs enable workers to use hydraulic tools when electricity is not available.

Avlock remains committed to adapting its technologies to shifting market dynamics “as more industries in Africa push toward greener and smarter solutions”, he concludes.