
By fps on December 5, 2011
When it comes to setting up a new CNC, there are a lot steps that take place between the tractor trailer arriving and producing manifolds.
In a previous post we showed you pictures from the delivery of our newest machining center. Since that time, we’ve been working on setting up the machine.
Below are some pictures that we took along the way.
Continue reading “Setting up the New CNC Machining Center”
Posted in General News, Manifolds | Tagged About FPS, machine shop, Manifolds
By fps on December 1, 2011
Creating custom fabrications allows us to provide the perfectly tailored hydraulic package.
During the 3D CAD design phase, we work closely with our customers to analyse how to best package a system that allows for damage-free shipping and perfect fit in the installation. Sometimes that means creating a custom part.
When these instances occur, we work with our trusted suppliers to produce prototypes parts. FPS also has an in-house paint booth that gives us flexibility for quick turnaround parts.
Below are some examples of 3D designs that we have prototyped, and some that are production items for us.
Continue reading “Custom Fabrications”
Posted in FPS Designs, Manifolds, Power Units | Tagged 3D CAD, design, Industrial, Mobile OEM, Power Units
By fps on November 28, 2011
How clean is your oil?

Often times when working with a hydraulic system, the importance of oil cleanliness is undervalued and in some cases, an afterthought.
Contamination—ranging from large chunks of metal down to simply honing dust—can cause valve failure, which typically happens at the worst moment.
Hydac USA offers a wide range of products and tools to help evaluate a hydraulic system.
Wondering how neglecting proper filtration can effect the bottom line? Fill out their savings caclulator.

Do you find the ISO Cleanliness Class Codes a bit confusing to understand? Request their ISO Cleanliness Guidelines for Hydraulic & Lube Oil poster (and be the envy of everyone in your office).
If you would like to discuss how you could best leverage the Hydac filter line and fluid service products, contact one of our sales offices near you!
Posted in Manufacturer Spotlight, Product Lines | Tagged Hydac, Product Lines
By fps on November 23, 2011
While we are working with the customer to develop their manifold package, we attempt to take look at things from all aspects.

In this example, we were able to offer the customer a main manifold that could be used in a standalone configuration and the option of 2 bolt-on manifolds (that could also be used standalone if desired). Continue reading “1 Design, Multiple Configuration Options”
Posted in FPS Designs, Manifolds | Tagged design, Manifolds, Mobile OEM
By fps on November 9, 2011

I was recently surprised to discover the Hydraforce Insider blog. As I scrolled through the posts, I was amazed at the wealth of technical information available.
Some of the posts that caught my eye were:
Posted in Manufacturer Spotlight, Product Lines | Tagged Hydraforce, Product Lines
By fps on November 9, 2011

Another example of a mobile OEM manifold assembly.
This is a green anodized 6061-T6511 aluminum manifold that utilizes the Hydraforce E-Coils that was featured in a previous post.
A couple of other features of interest in this assembly:
- The solenoid valves all have manual override control knobs/buttons. If the application needs to have override control in the event of electrical failure, you’ll want these included.
- This assembly uses lockdown plates on the four large solenoid valves. When evaluating an application, our engineers draw on years of experience to help ensure that our customers have the best package possible. One of these little details is pro-actively including lockdown plates (or at the very least, provisions for them). The lockdown plates ensure that the cartridge valve won’t “back out” when undergoing high pressure cycles.
- FPS uses screw-in type cap plugs on all threaded ports. We have found that the screw-in type are less likely to introduce contamination (as opposed to the push-in type) and provide a best port closure to help make sure that any residual oil doesn’t leak out during shipping.
Posted in FPS Designs, Manifolds | Tagged design, Manifolds, Mobile OEM
By fps on November 4, 2011
Setting up a perfect system is a challenging process.
At FPS we are always looking for ways to improve the way we do business.
Using the knowledge we have gained over the 20+ years of making manifolds we have set out to overhaul the workflow through our machine shop.
In designing the workcell we had 2 main goals:
- Evaluate workflow and reduce handling in order to reduce production time.
- Redefine and computerize the inspection process to improve manifold quality.
Continue reading “Redefining Workflow Through Our Machine Shop”
Posted in General News, Manifolds | Tagged About FPS, machine shop, Manifolds
By fps on November 1, 2011
This is an example of a clear anodized 6061-T6511 aluminum manifold that features SAE flange ports:


Mounting is achieved “sandwich” style via the middle flange port (notice the included trepan o-ring in the right view).

This manifold also takes advantage of the Hydraforce Series E Environmental Coils. The Hydraforce E-coils allow us to offer mobile style electrical coils rated between IP65 and IP69K (dependant on coil connector choice).
Posted in FPS Designs, Manifolds, Product Lines | Tagged design, Hydraforce, Manifolds, Mobile OEM
By fps on October 27, 2011
A couple weeks ago, the first of two new CNC machining centers was delivered to FPS.
Once up and running, the new Matsuura H. Plus-405 PC6 horizontal CNC will be a great addition to our production capabilities.
Below are some pictures of the delivery. Continue reading “CNC Machining Center Delivery”
Posted in General News, Manifolds | Tagged About FPS, machine shop, Manifolds
By fps on October 20, 2011

For some of our customers, fit is a constant challenge. In these situations, our design team strives to create a unique layout that allows us to provide each customer with the best installation and subsequent service of their part. No cutting corners, no quick fixes: our solutions are ideal from start to finish.
During the design phase, we use 3D models, and digital pictures and/or “napkin sketches” to determine the envelope requirements and then work our design magic to bring the part to life.

The above example utilizes a Haldex-Barnes pump. We remove the pump’s rear cover and replace it with a custom manifold. Special milling is provided to allow clearance for in-field replacement of a nearby filter element. We also designed a 90-deg bolt on the manifold to reduce the space required for a typical elbow fitting.
Thanks to the coordination between our design department and our customer, the assembly ends up fitting extremely well within the diesel engine compartment.
Posted in FPS Designs, Manifolds | Tagged 3D CAD, design, diesel engine components, Haldex-Barnes, Manifolds, Mobile OEM