David Stubbs - Product Specialist, Hydraulics

What is your name and job role; describe your everyday activities, what do you typically do in a day and how long have you been in the industry for?

My name is David Stubbs and I’m a Product Specialist who looks after the Industrial Hydraulics range of products. My role is to support the sales and technical team with any technical aspects of the products. This can range from individual questions about a particular feature or selection of a product, through to designing a complete Hydraulic System. I’ve been in the industry for approximately 40 years, with a short career break to complete a teacher’s qualification.

What is a product or solution you are most proud of having worked on recently?

I’d have to say our range of connected hydraulic products, in particular the CytroPac and CytroBox. In a world that’s becoming infinitely more connected, it’s great to have such a traditional technology like hydraulics pioneering new solutions in the connected world. The use of variable speed drive technology can offer the possibility of sustainable and energy efficient solutions.

What are some technical capabilities or key features of these product ranges you just spoke about?

So, with Sytronix, our variable speed solutions, we are looking to optimise the sizing of motor pump sets. By analysing the complete working cycle, providing only the flow/pressure required for that part of the cycle, can lead to a reduction in the energy consumption. By lowering the power consumption, can then in turn lower the operating costs for the user. Another cool thing about this optimisation is that it can offer an opportunity to downsize components, and in particular the tank size. Less oil being used across the system’s lifetime will mean less oil to buy up front, less oil to replace whilst it’s working, and then it’s less oil to dispose of come the end of the product’s life.

How has this product range improved in recent years compared to what it used to be?

Our online configurators, and size and selection tools, have gone from strength to strength in recent years. Now you can not only size the system based on your operating parameters, but it will offer you a selection of products to choose from. Furthermore, the tool will allow you to see the possible energy savings based on these parameters, being displayed in Kilowatts and a monetary value based on your exact energy rate.

How will attending webinars help our viewers or our customers, what do we really offer in them?

Webinars help our customers keep up with the latest technologies and developments. The world is changing rapidly, and industries are evolving so fast. Relying traditional technologies can often put you at a competitive disadvantage.

How does Rexroth hydraulics product range contribute to a more sustainable future?

We are committed to providing energy efficient solutions to our customers, as well as retrofits that optimise the energy use on existing machines. The Sytronix variable speed drive mentioned above is a prime example of this, offering energy on demand. It provides the required power with pinpoint accuracy and switches to standby in idle phases, thereby reducing energy consumption considerably

What sets Rexroth apart in the world of hydraulics?

It’s really our research and development capability with a relentless commitment to innovation. We are pioneers of cutting-edge technologies and solutions and our robust R&D infrastructure enables us to stay ahead of the curve, anticipating and addressing evolving challenges in the industry. Our forward-thinking approach is evident in the development of advanced hydraulic systems, components and smart solutions that optimise efficiency, precision, and sustainability. This commitment to research not only ensures that we remain at the forefront of hydraulic engineering but also empowers our customers with state-of-the-art products that elevate their performance and reliability in various applications.

What advice would you give to young people interested in working in hydraulics today?

It’s no longer enough to have just one area of expertise. Instead, today's engineers need several different skill sets. I think it can be quite daunting and quite difficult for young people when they first get into the industry because they are quite eager to prove their knowledge. Learn wherever and whatever you can and be persistent. Those prepared to look at new ideas or, look at old ideas in a new way, will be better able to adapt to whatever changes the market brings their way. Make the best of whatever task you turn your hand to, and opportunities for advancement will find you.

Learn more about Connected Hydraulics solutions here