Hydraulic systems consist of numerous precisely coordinated functional modules. The smarter and more efficient a system operates, the greater its technical and economic benefits. This is exactly where ARGO-HYTOS comes in: with integrated system solutions for hydraulics. They combine sensor technology, control, fluid management, and valve technology into a functional overall system – in mobile work machines, industrial plants, and special applications.

The focus is on consistently designed modules that can be seamlessly integrated into existing machine architectures – both mechanically and in terms of control technology. Predefined interfaces, compact geometries, and flexibly combinable assemblies enable short development times, easy installation, and consistently stable system performance. At the same time, the effort required for wiring, piping, and commissioning is significantly reduced.

ARGO-HYTOS supplies ready-to-connect solutions that are designed for specific requirements and are immediately ready for use. Here are some examples of applications:

• Spray boom control in agricultural engineering
• Safety hydraulics for earth-moving machines
• Load-dependent control for changing operating profiles

The following article shows how such system solutions can be implemented in practice and what added value they can generate in daily operation.

What makes integrated system solutions for hydraulics effective?

ARGO-HYTOS is specialized in developing functional complete solutions whose individual components are precisely coordinated with each other. Integrated system solutions for hydraulics combine control, sensor technology, valve technology, and fluid management into a precisely regulating system. This transforms hydraulics from a power transmission system into an intelligent controller that is tailored to the actual load requirements, environmental conditions, and applications.

The modular design of the solutions makes it possible to implement customer-specific requirements without costly new developments. Instead of heterogeneous isolated solutions, a consistent, maintenance-friendly system is created that saves space, reduces weight, and massively increases energy efficiency. At the same time, both commissioning times and the risk of system incompatibilities are reduced.

ARGO-HYTOS relies on pre-developed function modules that can be reconfigured depending on the application – with a significantly reduced time-to-market. It is important to note that not only technical components, but also control and safety logic are integrated into the design.

OEMs and system integrators thus receive reliable packages that have already been thought through in terms of practicality during development and documentation. This reduces development risks and creates freedom. How does the Spray Height Control System ensure precision in agriculture?

The Spray Height Control System (SHC) was developed to optimally control the application of pesticides and liquid fertilizers under changing field conditions. The integrated system solution combines ultrasonic sensors, hydraulic lifting mechanics, and an intelligent control unit.

The sensors continuously measure the distance between the spray nozzle and the plant surface – even when the vehicle is swaying or on uneven terrain. The real-time data is forwarded to the central ECU, which adjusts the spray boom height in milliseconds. This keeps the distance to the plant constant, which is one of the key factors for uniform distribution and minimal loss of product.

The result is lower resource consumption, significantly reduced environmental impact, and consistently high effectiveness. The system can also switch between different driving modes – for example, for slopes, edge zones, or parcel changes. This eliminates the need for constant manual intervention by the machine operator.

In addition to its precise control, the SHC impresses with its robustness. The fully enclosed sensor system is dust- and splash-proof in accordance with IP67 and designed for continuous use in the field. In combination with other modules such as load-sensing valves or filter systems, the SHC can be integrated into existing machine architectures as a scalable complete solution. It is completely ready to connect and can be expanded at any time as needed.

What safety functions does the HS-BR brake release block perform?

The HS-BR brake release block offers a highly secure, ready-to-connect solution for mobile machines with hydraulically vented spring-applied brakes. The compact module enables controlled brake release even when hydraulic pressure from the main system is not available. This is useful in the event of machine downtime or emergencies, for example.

Three versions of the brake release block are available:

• with integrated hand pump system
• with priority valve
• with automatic reset

The module handles the entire safety logic, including valve control, pressure accumulator connection, and optional signal transmitter. As soon as the block is activated, it independently builds up the pressure required for brake release. It complies with ISO 3450, the central safety standard for earth-moving machines.

Its compact design allows the brake release block to be installed even in confined spaces. Thanks to factory pre-assembly, installation effort is significantly reduced. Patented components and CE-compliant documentation ensure maximum system stability.

The HS-BR is a typical example of the system solution approach taken by ARGO-HYTOS. Hydraulics, control, safety, and operation are combined in a single module. This module is functionally tested and ready for immediate use, and is delivered to end users with an integrated redundancy concept.

What makes the modular hydro-pneumatic system so versatile?

The modular hydro-pneumatic system (MHPS) from ARGO-HYTOS combines the advantages of hydraulic power transmission with the energy storage capacity of pressure accumulators. This combination produces progressive damping characteristics that dynamically adapt to load changes, speed, and direction. MHPS provides greater comfort, better driving stability, and less wear, especially in vehicles or equipment with variable loads.

The system consists of preconfigured modules – such as hydraulic accumulators, proportional pressure control valves, sensors, and compact connection housings. These modules can be combined depending on the application – from small linear units to multi-axis gantries. Integration is achieved via defined mechanical or hydraulic interfaces.

Sensors record movement profiles in real time and adjust the pressure conditions in the system. The electronics communicate via CANopen or SAE J1939 and can be easily integrated into existing control concepts.

A smaller solution (MSC) is also available as an option for simple applications. MHPS is an example of a scalable modular system that offers maximum flexibility and maximum safety. At the same time, it can be deployed without any development effort.

What other integrated system solutions for hydraulics increase energy efficiency?

In hydraulic engineering, efficiency gains are achieved through measures such as optimizing the volume flow. The Modular Load Sensing System from ARGO-HYTOS supplies only as much oil as the machine actually needs.

To do this, it uses a pressure sensor to detect the highest load pressure in the system and regulates the pump's flow rate via control blocks and electronic modules.

This principle saves fuel, reduces oil temperatures, and extends the service life of components. Modular Load Sensing is ideal for machines with changing movement requirements, such as telescopic loaders, forestry machines, or municipal vehicles.

The control blocks used can be adapted and expanded to suit specific applications. A typical system consists of:

• Pressure sensor
• Electronic evaluation device
• Control block with proportional valves
• Interfaces to the vehicle control system

This elegantly solves the balancing act between dynamic performance and resource-efficient operation. For systems with even higher dynamics, we recommend combining them with power-on-demand units or electronic controls from the ARGO-HYTOS portfolio.

Which supplementary modules round off the system portfolio?

At ARGO-HYTOS, system solutions always mean thinking in terms of functional chains rather than individual components. Two key areas complete this principle:

• System filtration: With HIT tank, Quick Connect, and integrated filtration, oil cleanliness, storage, and transport can be considered as a single unit. Return filters, suction filters, and particle counters are combined in such a way that they reduce cleaning intervals and ensure fluid quality throughout the entire life cycle.
• Hydraulic power units & power on demand: ARGO-HYTOS' powerful power units only supply energy when it is needed. This saves resources, reduces noise, and lowers the temperature load on the system. This is ideal for mobile or intermittent applications.

Both systems have already been tried and tested in the field many times, can be combined with existing machine layouts, and are documented in accordance with current standards. The consistent modularization of all components allows for individual configuration of these integrated system solutions for hydraulics - from compact filter tanks to intelligent pressure supply systems.

Developing system solutions together now

ARGO-HYTOS stands not only for hydraulic expertise, but also for collaborative project development. OEMs, system integrators, and plant manufacturers benefit from application-specific engineering, pre-assembled modules, tested safety standards, and flexible interfaces. The path to efficient, integrated hydraulic system solutions begins with a conversation. Let's work together to find the perfect solution for your needs! Contact us now.