Insights by the SCOTT Team

Precision Auto-Leveling Control System

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:01:53 GMT

Precision Auto-Leveling Control System:
Mobile Vehicle Loading Ramp Case Study

We replaced hydraulic guesswork with intelligent control.

When a mobile vehicle-loading ramp raises nearly 10 feet, even small hydraulic inaccuracies can become a big problem.

�� VIEW THE CASE STUDY

This customer needed two cylinders to stay perfectly synchronized so safety ratchet teeth would land on the same position—keeping the machine square, safe, and structurally sound during vehicle loading.

Traditional flow dividers (≈95–98% accurate) weren’t enough. Over a long stroke, that margin allowed misalignment well beyond the ratchet tooth spacing—leading to wear, premature bearing failures, and safety concerns.

Our solution:

A closed-loop electro-hydraulic control system using:

✔️ A Danfoss controller

✔️ Dual inclinometers

✔️ Proportional valves

Instead of referencing gravity, the system maintains the ramp angle relative to the base, even on uneven terrain. Auto-leveling only activates during motion, includes multiple safety lockouts, and remains backward compatible with the existing fleet.

The Results:

✔️ Ramp level maintained within ±0.25°

✔️ Accurate synchronization over a 10-ft stroke

✔️ Handles unbalanced loads

✔️ Reduced structural stress and long-term maintenance

Sometimes the right answer isn’t more hydraulics - it’s smarter controls.

Conversion Calculators

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:34:06 GMT

Introducing Our New Engineering Conversion Calculators
Built for Fluid Power, Hydraulics, and Industrial Pros

�� USE THE CALCULATOR

At Scott Industrial, we know that precision and speed are everything in engineering. Whether you're designing hydraulic systems, troubleshooting in the field, or preparing technical proposals, unit conversions are a constant part of the job - and they can be a real bottleneck.

That’s why we’re excited to launch our new suite of engineering conversion calculators, purpose-built for professionals in fluid power, hydraulics, pneumatics, and industrial machinery.

Why These Tools Matter

In engineering, even a small conversion error can lead to big problems—mismatched components, inefficiencies, or even system failures. And switching between spreadsheets, charts, or web tools? That just slows you down.

Our calculators are designed to eliminate that friction. They’re fast, accurate, and tailored to the real-world needs of engineers and technicians.

What You Can Convert

Our tools cover a wide range of unit types, including:

Pressure: psi ↔ bar ↔ Pa
Flow: gpm ↔ l/min ↔ m³/h
Power: hp ↔ kW
Force & Torque
Other units: density, viscosity, length, temperature, and more

Key Features

Here’s what sets our calculators apart:

✅ Comprehensive Unit Coverage – Convert directly between standard and specialized units

✅ Engineer-Friendly Categories – Find what you need fast with intuitive groupings

✅ Built-In Precision – Smart rounding and significant figures for engineering-grade accuracy

✅ Real-Time Results – Enter a value and see instant conversions across all relevant units

✅ Mobile-Ready – Use them on your phone, tablet, or desktop—wherever the job takes you

✅ Future-Ready – Designed for integration into dashboards, maintenance tools, and more

Real-World Use Cases

Here’s how engineers are already using these tools:

Hydraulic System Sizing
Convert between L/min and gpm, or bar and psi, to compare specs across suppliers.
Proposal & Quoting
Quickly switch between metric and imperial units to match customer requirements.
Field Service & Troubleshooting
Get instant answers when readings come in unfamiliar units—no charts or guesswork.
Cross-Team Collaboration
Bridge the gap between mechanical, process, and instrumentation teams using different unit standards.

How to Get Started

Using the calculators is simple:

Visit ScottIndustrialSystems.com > Engineering & Applications > Conversion Calculators
Select your conversion type (pressure, flow, etc.)
Enter your value and unit—see results instantly

We’ve also included helpful tooltips and unit explanations for newer users—like what “ksi” or “bar(a)” means.

Why Choose Scott Industrial’s Tools?

Built for Industry – Explicitly designed for fluid power and industrial engineering
Reliable & Accurate – Backed by tested conversion constants and logic
Free to Use – No paywalls, no subscriptions—just tools that help you work better
Continuously Improving – More calculators and API access are on the way

Boosting Hydraulic System Efficiency with Smarter Oil Filtration

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:02:13 GMT

Boosting Hydraulic System Efficiency with Smarter Oil Filtration:
A Case Study in Automotive Plastics Manufacturing

Hydraulic oil cleanliness is critical to industrial performance. In automotive plastics manufacturing, contaminated oil can lead to costly downtime, frequent maintenance, and reduced equipment lifespan.

One U.S.-based manufacturer faced this exact challenge - until a more brilliant filtration strategy transformed their operations.

�� VIEW THE CASE STUDY

The Problem: Contaminated Hydraulic Oil Disrupts Production

This manufacturer’s molding presses were operating with dangerously high contamination levels, with oil testing at ISO 24/23/21. Their existing filter elements , despite being from a well-known brand, failed to deliver consistent performance.

The issues included:

Low dirt-holding capacity
Frequent filter replacements
Hard-to-access filter locations
Increased risk of hydraulic failure

These inefficiencies drove up maintenance costs and caused repeated production delays.

The Solution: Partnering for Smarter Filtration

To address the issue, Scott Industrial Systems teamed up with Schroeder Industries to implement a high-efficiency, cost-effective filtration strategy. The collaboration focused on both lab validation and real-world application to ensure long-term success.

Key Actions Taken:

Conducted side-by-side lab testing of filter elements
Introduced multi-layer filtration technology
Deployed Total Fluid Condition testing, filter carts, and duplex assemblies
Replaced old filters with Schroeder elements (3µm, 5µm, 10µm)
Upgraded dehydrator filters for system-wide consistency

The Results: Cleaner Oil, Better Performance

The impact was immediate. Oil cleanliness improved to ISO 16/14/11, leading to:

Reduced maintenance frequency
Fewer hydraulic failures
Improved equipment uptime
Lower overall operating costs

The success of this solution led to its adoption across multiple facilities, setting a new internal standard for hydraulic oil cleanliness.

Why It Matters

Upgrading to high-performance filtration systems doesn’t just protect your equipment; it also drives efficiency, reliability, and cost savings. This case study proves that more innovative filtration can be a game-changer for manufacturers relying on hydraulic systems.

SCOTT delivers more than just components - we provide comprehensive fluid power solutions backed by rigorous testing, validation, and proven results.

�� Ready to improve your hydraulic oil performance?
Contact our team today to learn more about our filtration solutions.

Next-Gen Engine Block Automation: How Precision Upgrades Drive Performance

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:05:13 GMT

A Seamless Transition to Next-Generation Automation

Case Study: Automotive Manufacturing

Scott Industrial Systems partnered with a leading automotive manufacturer to upgrade its automation for next-generation engine block production without interrupting current operations.

�� VIEW THE CASE STUDY �� SEE IT IN MOTION - YOUTUBE

Meeting the Challenge

A leading automotive manufacturer faced a critical challenge - how to transition to next-generation engine block production without disrupting their existing operations. Stopping the line wasn’t an option, yet the company needed a solution that would improve efficiency, accuracy, and reliability while preparing for the future of manufacturing.

That’s when Scott Industrial Systems stepped in to engineer an automation upgrade that met all the requirements.

The Automation Upgrade Solution

The solution centered around replacing an aging robotic system with a FANUC R-2000iC/210L robotic arm enhanced by a KEYENCE RB-1200SO 3D vision system. Together, this combination delivered the high precision and reliability required for modern engine block production.

In addition, Scott Industrial Systems implemented adaptive tooling designed to handle both current and next-generation components. This flexibility ensured a smooth transition from legacy parts to new production.

Key Benefits Delivered

The upgraded automation system delivered measurable improvements across several critical areas:

Reduced cycle time → Higher throughput and faster production
Improved quality and precision → Thanks to advanced 3D vision technology
Minimized downtime → Careful planning and validation prevented costly disruptions
Enhanced flexibility → Adaptive tooling ensured compatibility across multiple engine block generations

Through careful scheduling, extensive pre-installation testing, and on-site fine-tuning, SCOTT ensured the transition was seamless.

Results That Exceeded Expectations

The project not only met but exceeded the manufacturer’s performance goals. By combining robotics, vision systems, and adaptive tooling, the manufacturer developed a future-ready automation system that enhanced productivity today while laying the groundwork for continued innovation tomorrow.

Why Choose Scott Industrial Systems for Your Automation Needs?

SCOTT brings deep expertise in industrial automation solutions that integrate robotics, vision technology, and custom engineering. Our team understands the challenges of balancing current production needs with future growth. Whether you need to reduce cycle time, improve quality, or design flexible automation systems, we deliver results you can count on.

�� Ready to explore what automation can do for your operation?

Contact Scott Industrial Systems today to learn more about our automation engineering capabilities.

Girder Gantry Project for I40 Bridge Repair

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 18:02:31 GMT

Scheduled Bridge Replacement on Interstate 40: SCOTT Hydraulic Solutions in Action

Case Study: Girder Gantry System

A major infrastructure upgrade was underway near Asheville, North Carolina, where a key section of Interstate 40 is being replaced to ensure long-term reliability and safety for one of the region’s busiest corridors.

VIEW THE CASE STUDY

To support the planned bridge replacement, the end customer required a solution to lift and position large concrete girders with precision and safety. SCOTT partnered with the contractor to provide a fully integrated hydraulic and control system designed to handle the job's complexity.

The Challenge

Operate two gantry systems in sync—one at each end of the girder
Enable remote, precise X and Y movement during placement
Provide real-time feedback on engine performance
Ensure smooth coordination between hydraulic and engine control systems

Our Solution | SCOTT delivered a turnkey system featuring:

Two diesel hydraulic power units (HPUs) equipped with PVG32 proportional valves
MC038-10 Plus+1® controller for managing logic and system functions
IK3 wireless radio transmitter with dual receivers for remote operation
MPCAN modules enabling CAN bus communication for control and feedback

With one transmitter, the operator can simultaneously control both lifting machines, including engine start/stop, throttle, and valve movement. The system also provides live engine feedback on fuel level, temperature, and battery status, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

The Result

Successfully tested and ready for deployment, this system played a key role in the timely completion of the I-40 bridge replacement. The customer is highly satisfied with the performance, reliability, and ease of use.

Why It Matters

Planned infrastructure updates, such as this one, keep our highways safe, efficient, and built to last. SCOTT is proud to support critical projects with the hydraulic and control expertise to make them a success.

Poclain Hydraulics, Top Distributor

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:30:51 GMT

SCOTT awarded Top Distributor for 2024 by Poclain.

The SCOTT team is grateful for the technical support and valued products from Poclain .

Poclain is an independent industrial group specialized in the design, manufacture, and marketing of efficient hydrostatic and electrohydraulic transmissions headquartered in France.

Scott Industrial Systems Acquires Automated Engineered Solutions (AES), Expanding Automation and Engineering Capabilities

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:06:22 GMT

Scott Industrial Systems Acquires Automated Engineered Solutions (AES), Expanding Automation and Engineering Capabilities

Fluid Power World digitally published this article on June 12, 2025.

Fluid Power Journal digitally published this article on June 18, 2025.

Scott Industrial Systems announces the acquisition of Automated Engineered Solutions (AES) , a dynamic automation company headquartered in Oberlin, Ohio. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Scott’s continued growth, deepening its expertise in industrial automation, custom machinery, and advanced engineering solutions.

AES brings over three decades of experience delivering tailored automation systems across a broad range of industries. The team, known for its innovation and technical strength, remains fully intact.

“AES is a natural fit for the Scott family,” said Bruce Henrey, Vice President of Sales for Scott Industrial Systems. “Their expertise in high-production machine tending and custom automation allows us to diversify our offerings while staying focused on delivering exceptional value and precision-engineered solutions to our customers.”

AES Capabilities Include:

Machine tending automation

Assembly and test equipment

Automated inspection systems

Specialty machinery for forming, drilling, milling, tapping, and flaring

Machine recontrols and rebuilds

Custom gaging and work holding fixtures

Electrical controls and mechanical design support

Reverse engineering and part manufacturing for obsolete components

Clean-room-ready solutions for pharmaceutical applications

AES enhances SCOTT’s technical bench with a talented team that includes mechanical and electrical design engineers, journeyman tool & die makers, an automation electrician, and a seasoned purchasing agent.

This acquisition represents more than an expansion — it’s a shared commitment to innovation, customer service, and long-term industry leadership.

Welcome to the AES team, soon to be part of Scott Automation.

Together, we’re building what’s next.

A Brief History of Pneumatics in Aviation — and a Scott Family Connection

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:31:14 GMT

Wherever You Go, Fluid Power Goes Too

A Brief History of Pneumatics in Aviation — and a Scott Family Connection

Pneumatics have played a crucial role in the evolution of aviation, dating back to the early 20th century. By the 1920s and 1930s, as aircraft design advanced rapidly, pneumatic systems emerged as a practical solution for enhancing performance and reliability, especially when weight was a critical factor.

One of the earliest and most widespread applications of pneumatics in aviation was in braking systems and retractable landing gear. Compressed air made it possible to actuate these components with greater reliability and reduced weight compared to the hydraulic systems available at the time.

Key Milestones in Aviation Pneumatics:

1920s–1930s: Pneumatics gained popularity in both commercial and military aircraft, particularly for applications such as brakes and landing gear.
World War II: The use of both pneumatic and hydraulic systems expanded significantly, supporting control of flight surfaces, braking systems, landing gear, and other essential components.

As aviation technology progressed, hydraulics eventually overtook pneumatics in many applications due to their higher power density and superior reliability. Still, pneumatic systems continue to be used today in lighter-duty aircraft functions, such as cabin pressure controls, doors, and emergency systems.

A Personal Connection to Aviation Innovation

Ironically - and proudly - our company's story has deep roots in this era of aviation advancement. Our founder, Roger Scott, attempted to enlist in World War II but was instead asked by the U.S. government to remain stateside. His mission? Apply his engineering expertise to the development of landing gear systems for military aircraft, including bombers, while working with Delco. His contributions during the war laid the foundation for his eventual career with General Motors and ultimately led to the establishment of Scott Industrial Systems.

Engineered for Efficiency: Delivering Fluid Power Solutions with Danfoss Certification

Thu, 22 May 2025 17:13:19 GMT

Engineered for Efficiency: Delivering Fluid Power Solutions wit h Danfoss

From Prototype to Production:

Visit: Danfoss supplier page , Danfoss Mobile Valve Build Center page

When it comes to fluid power solutions, having the right certifications and capabilities can make all the difference. That's why at Scott Industrial Systems, we take immense pride in our Danfoss Certification and Build Center . These aren't just fancy labels - they represent our unwavering commitment to excellence, precision, and rapid delivery in everything we do.

Our Danfoss certification is a testament to the high level of technical expertise our team possesses. It means we've undergone rigorous training and met stringent quality standards, so you can trust that we know our stuff inside and out. We're not just slapping parts together - we're fluid power experts who understand the intricacies of these systems and how to optimize their performance.

But it's not just about knowledge; it's also about execution. That's where our Build Center comes into play. This state-of-the-art facility allows us to provide fast turnaround times for replacement parts, production needs, and even prototype development. Whether you need an urgent repair or you're working on the next big innovation, we can deliver with speed and reliability.

Imagine this scenario: One of your critical machines goes down, and you're facing costly downtime. With our Build Center, we can quickly source the necessary parts, assemble them with precision, and get that machine back up and running in no time. Or maybe you're a design engineer working on a cutting-edge fluid power system, and you need prototypes to test and refine your concepts. We can make that happen, collaborating with you every step of the way to bring your vision to life.

At the end of the day, our Danfoss Certification and Build Center capabilities are all about delivering world-class products and services with confidence. We're not just suppliers; we're partners who understand the importance of minimizing downtime, maximizing efficiency, and driving innovation. So, whether you're facing a critical repair or embarking on a groundbreaking new project, you can count on us to exceed your expectations with speed, reliability, and performance.

Mobile Hydraulics & Controls for Rail Car Heating System

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 19:24:15 GMT

Mobile Hydraulics and Controls for a Rail Car Heating System in the Railroad Equipment Industry | article published in the Fluid Power Journal March 2025

This article was published in the Fluid Power Journal in March 2025.

The railroad industry has long relied on innovative technologies to ensure the safety, efficiency, and durability of its infrastructure. One such critical innovation designed for use in service or repair of rail, is the mobile hydraulics and controls system used in rail car heating equipment. These systems are designed to heat continuous welded railroad rails to 400-500 degrees Fahrenheit, enabling them to enlarge and be secured in place while in a hot, expanded state. Once cooled, the rails contract, creating the tension and stability necessary to support the immense loads of locomotives and rail cars. This article explores the technical aspects, challenges, and innovations behind these systems incorporated into rail service cars, highlighting their importance to the railroad industry.

The Role of Mobile Hydraulics in Rail Heating Systems

To achieve the precise range of speeds and torque required for heating rails, a combination of hydrostatic drive and mechanical linkage systems was deployed. This setup ensures sufficient power to move the system across the rails at controlled speeds, even on inclines. Additionally, an auxiliary pressure-compensated, load-sensing circuit operates ancillary equipment, such as burner assemblies, blower fans, and vibratory mechanisms.

The system’s hydraulic components include a hydrostatic pump with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control, radial piston motors for the main drive system or vehicle propel function. Pressure-compensated piston pumps are used to supply hydraulic power to the auxiliary functions, while directional control valves, both cartridge-style and sectional-style, manage the hydraulic flow. These components, paired with a robust mobile control module, create a hydraulic and control system capable of thriving in harsh outdoor environments.

Control System Operation and Design

The control system is built around a durable mobile PLC control module programmed with software developed using the CoDeSys environment. This module interfaces with the directional control valves through wired communication and with the diesel engine via the J1939 CAN bus protocol. Sensors, both analog and digital, provide real-time data for monitoring system performance. This design ensures reliable operation, even in extreme conditions.

Challenges in the Field

One of the primary challenges faced by rail heating systems is operating in severe outdoor environments with minimal downtime. These machines often function in remote areas across North America, where resources for repairs and troubleshooting are limited. Downtime can halt an entire segment of the railroad system, making simplicity and reliability paramount. The system’s design prioritizes ease of maintenance, allowing field technicians to quickly identify and address issues.

Heating System Configurations

The rail heating system comes in two configurations: propane-powered and diesel-powered. The propane system requires controlled propane flow, while the diesel system uses a fan/blower assembly with a closed-loop control system to maintain consistent airflow. Both systems feature independent burner banks to heat each side of the rail, ensuring uniform temperature distribution.

Innovative Features

The rail heating system incorporates several innovative features, including a cruise control function that enables precise speed control. In work mode, the rail car system operates at speeds as low as 1/8 MPH, a capability unique to the industry. This slow, steady speed is critical for effective rail heating. Additionally, transport mode allows speeds of up to 20 MPH for relocating the equipment. Operator controls include an electronic joystick for speed and directional adjustments, along with comprehensive system monitoring and fault indicators for troubleshooting.

Safety Measures

Safety is a key consideration in the system’s design. Real-time monitoring ensures optimal fluid levels and temperatures, while built-in shutdown mechanisms protect against low or overheated conditions. The system also includes "driver presence" technology, preventing the machine from operating in an unmanned state.

Ease of Maintenance

Maintenance is facilitated by detailed operator manuals, on-site training, and diagnostic tools such as test points and fault indicators. These features enable railroad industry technicians to efficiently service the equipment and minimize downtime. The system’s simplicity and robustness are essential for reliable operation in remote and challenging environments.

Historical Context and Evolution

The concept of rail heating systems dates to the 1950s, when mechanical technology was used to perform the task. Since the early 2000s, advancements in hydraulics and electronic controls have revolutionized these systems, providing greater efficiency, reliability, and precision. Modern designs, operational for over 15 years, continue to set the standard in the industry.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

The closed-loop hydrostatic drive system improves fuel efficiency by reducing waste, allowing longer operating durations before refueling. In the diesel-powered configuration, the shared fuel system between the engine and burners further enhances efficiency. These features contribute to a more sustainable approach to rail heating.

Conclusion

Mobile hydraulics and control systems have transformed rail heating in the railroad industry. By combining advanced hydraulic technology, innovative control features, and robust safety measures, these systems ensure reliable operation in even the harshest environments. Their efficiency, simplicity, and adaptability make them indispensable tools for maintaining the stability and safety of railroad infrastructure. As the industry continues to evolve, these systems will remain at the forefront of technological advancements, meeting the demands of modern rail operations.

Written by Kevin Smith, Vice President of Sales, SCOTT Industrial Systems

Lifter Plunger Tear Down Cell for Jasper Engines

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 17:38:08 GMT

Jasper aimed to optimize the process of removing lifter plungers from a family of internal combustion engines.

Case Study: Automating Lifter Plunger Removal

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, automation plays a crucial role in improving efficiency and reducing manual labor. Jasper Engines & Transmissions , a leader in remanufacturing powertrain components, faced a challenge in optimizing the removal of lifter plungers from a family of internal combustion engines.

To solve this, they partnered with Scott Industrial Systems to engineer a custom automated operational cell. This innovative system integrates a Scott Pak Power Unit, Continental Valves, and Miller Cylinders into a specialized tooling solution.

The Impact

✅ Increased Efficiency – Automated removal speeds up production

✅ Reduced Manual Labor – Operators can now complete tasks effortlessly

✅ Enhanced Productivity – Streamlined process results in faster output

By leveraging fluid power expertise, Scott Industrial Systems helped Jasper Engines & Transmissions optimize operations and drive efficiency. This case study demonstrates how the right hydraulic and pneumatic solutions can transform manufacturing processes.

Download our case study!

Looking for a custom fluid power solution?

Contact Scott Industrial Systems today to see how we can enhance your operations!

Insights by the SCOTT Team

Precision Auto-Leveling Control System

Precision Auto-Leveling Control System: Mobile Vehicle Loading Ramp Case Study

Conversion Calculators

Introducing Our New Engineering Conversion Calculators Built for Fluid Power, Hydraulics, and Industrial Pros

Boosting Hydraulic System Efficiency with Smarter Oil Filtration

Boosting Hydraulic System Efficiency with Smarter Oil Filtration: A Case Study in Automotive Plastics Manufacturing

Next-Gen Engine Block Automation: How Precision Upgrades Drive Performance

A Seamless Transition to Next-Generation Automation

Girder Gantry Project for I40 Bridge Repair

Scheduled Bridge Replacement on Interstate 40: SCOTT Hydraulic Solutions in Action

Poclain Hydraulics, Top Distributor

SCOTT awarded Top Distributor for 2024 by Poclain.

Scott Industrial Systems Acquires Automated Engineered Solutions (AES), Expanding Automation and Engineering Capabilities

Scott Industrial Systems Acquires Automated Engineered Solutions (AES), Expanding Automation and Engineering Capabilities

A Brief History of Pneumatics in Aviation — and a Scott Family Connection

Wherever You Go, Fluid Power Goes Too

Engineered for Efficiency: Delivering Fluid Power Solutions with Danfoss Certification

Engineered for Efficiency: Delivering Fluid Power Solutions wit h Danfoss

Mobile Hydraulics & Controls for Rail Car Heating System

Mobile Hydraulics and Controls for a Rail Car Heating System in the Railroad Equipment Industry | article published in the Fluid Power Journal March 2025

Lifter Plunger Tear Down Cell for Jasper Engines

Jasper aimed to optimize the process of removing lifter plungers from a family of internal combustion engines.

Precision Auto-Leveling Control System:
Mobile Vehicle Loading Ramp Case Study

Introducing Our New Engineering Conversion Calculators
Built for Fluid Power, Hydraulics, and Industrial Pros

Boosting Hydraulic System Efficiency with Smarter Oil Filtration:
A Case Study in Automotive Plastics Manufacturing