Category: News

In a significant stride towards innovation and efficiency, Lynch Fluid Controls, a leader in hydraulic motion control manifolds and integrated hydraulic systems, recently unveiled its latest manufacturing capability expansion with the installation of the state-of-the-art Matsuura H-Plus 504 CNC machine. This groundbreaking addition reflects Lynch’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, opening new avenues for enhanced productivity and quality in their manufacturing processes.

The installation of the Matsuura H-Plus 504 CNC machine was no small feat, requiring meticulous planning and execution. Over a span of three months, the team worked tirelessly to ensure seamless integration of cutting-edge technology into Lynch’s existing CNC machine group. Notably, a new foundation was poured to support the machine’s substantial weight on the shop floor. The excavation extended nearly three feet deep and was subsequently filled with a formidable 1,076 cubic feet of concrete, gravel, and rebar, totaling an impressive 80 tons.

This new CNC machine stands out with its ability to manufacture manifolds sized at 8” x 8” x 48”, showcasing Lynch’s dedication to versatility and precision in hydraulic motion control. Moreover, the Matsuura H-Plus 504 boasts impressive specifications, including the ability to handle maximum workpieces of 800mm diameter x 1,000mm tall. Equipped with a 12-station pallet pool and a 530-tool magazine, this machine facilitates a seamless flow of work through the cell, enhancing efficiency and productivity. Additionally, features like tool breakage detection and full machine monitoring enhance the ability to run operations unattended overnight, further optimizing productivity and resource utilization.

The significance of this expansion is underscored by Lynch’s global presence, as the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and distributes hydraulic components worldwide. Lynch’s extensive reach spans 62 countries, serving diverse sectors such as aerospace, military, material handling, entertainment, mining, logging, industrial, and mobile equipment. As a major exporter, Lynch ensures that 50% of its products and services are exported, contributing to its status as a significant player in the international market. With an annual production of thousands of manifolds, Lynch has solidified its position as a Global Centre of Excellence for hydraulic motion control and state-of-the-art manufacturing.

One of Lynch’s notable achievements is a role model for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Canada, demonstrating a commitment to retaining and producing high-value manufacturing jobs for Canadians. The company’s dedication to upholding the highest industrial standards is evident in its certifications, further establishing Lynch as a reliable and quality-driven partner in the hydraulic motion control industry.

The successful installation of the Matsuura H-Plus 504 CNC machine marks a momentous occasion for Lynch Fluid Controls. Bill Gregory, the VP of Manufacturing, expressed his pride and excitement, stating, “I am proud to announce that we cut metal for the first-time last week on the Matsuura H-Plus 504 horizontal machining center.” This achievement is the culmination of a two-year journey that began in December 2021 with a visionary “wish list” for the new manufacturing cell.

Gregory commended the collaborative effort of the team, acknowledging the collective knowledge gained over the past three decades that contributed to the machine’s specifications. The Matsuura H-Plus 504 now stands prominently on the shop floor, marking the beginning of the retirement journey of the first Mazak machine purchased almost 22 years ago. Gregory expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the project, recognizing their dedication and hard work.

While acknowledging the achievement, Gregory also emphasized that there is still much work ahead to optimize the productivity levels of the new CNC machine. He likened the journey to a series of steps, stating, “Every journey starts with one step, then followed by another.” This optimistic perspective reflects Lynch Fluid Controls’ commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the dynamic field of hydraulic motion control.

In conclusion, Lynch Fluid Controls’ manufacturing capability expansion with the installation of the Matsuura H-Plus 504 CNC machine marks a transformative moment for the company. This cutting-edge technology, combined with Lynch’s global reach and commitment to excellence, positions the company at the forefront of hydraulic motion control innovation. As Lynch continues to take steps towards optimizing productivity, the industry can anticipate further groundbreaking developments from this industry leader.

Fluid power is a technological solution widely integrated into several facets of the power industry. However, this solution has proven to be indispensable in aerospace and military applications globally.

Conventionally divided into hydraulics and pneumatics, fluid power systems are known for their precision, high power density, and compactness, all of which are qualities that make them integral in aerospace and military applications. Used to provide efficient energy in demanding environments and execute critical missions in equally critical sectors, the importance of fluid power cannot be overemphasized.

In this editorial, we will examine the diverse application of fluid power in military and aerospace, including the benefits, limitations, and future of this technology. We will also explore how companies like Lynch Fluid Controls offer innovative solutions to challenge these fluid power limitations in the aerospace and defence industries.

Fluid Power Technologies: Hydraulics and Pneumatics

The United States National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) describes fluid power as a workhorse of the US economy, and this is not far from the truth. Fluid power is widely integrated and utilized in several industrial sectors that keep several businesses running, thereby yielding considerable impact on the country’s economy.

Two major industries that utilize fluid power for operations are the aviation industry and the defence industry. But why exactly is fluid power important to the aerospace and military?

Fluid power can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, where it was first used to irrigate crops and boost food production. However, the concept has been improved to the point where fluid power has graduated from a simple means of creating irrigation to being applied in various industrial uses such as hydraulic pumps with electric drives and intelligence-embedded valves.

Now combined with advanced electronics systems, fluid power offers a more flexible and controlled energy system that is more efficient than electromechanical devices.

As a system utilizing fluid in energy creation, hydraulic systems pump fluid power. However, because the fluid is pressurized, it creates hydraulic energy, which is converted to mechanical energy as it is passed through valves present in the framework of the system.

Hydraulic systems typically use incompressible fluids such as oil and usually comprise components such as pumps, valves, actuators, and reservoirs. Every component works in tandem to transmit power through fluid, thereby creating a highly efficient system that can be used to operate large mechanisms.

A hydraulic system is typically made up of the following:

• A reservoir to hold hydraulic fluid.
• A hydraulic pump moves the fluid through the system and converts the mechanical energy generated during the process to hydraulic power.
• An electric motor to power the hydraulic pump.
• Valves to control the flow, and hence the pressure, of the fluid in the system.
• The hydraulic cylinder converts the generated hydraulic power back to mechanical energy, which powers the equipment.

Hydraulic systems can be found in everyday uses, such as cars, dishwashers, and gasoline pumps. However, they are also primarily used in industrial applications such as construction machines, airplanes, heavy construction vehicles, and military operations.

In aerospace and military applications, hydraulic systems are used for a wide range of operations, from operating heavy machinery on the battlefield to

controlling spacecraft movements. They play integral roles in ensuring the safety of all missions, whether on land or in the air, while also ensuring (or at least guaranteeing to a large extent) the safety of the personnel involved.

While hydraulic systems focus on using fluid to generate power, pneumatic systems are powered by compressed air or inert gases. This fluid power application uses components such as compressors, valves, and actuators to control the flow and pressure of the gas used to generate energy.

Like the hydraulic system, pneumatic systems comprise components that facilitate energy creation. Some of the major components include:

• A compressor that makes air.
• A reservoir or receiver that stores air.
• Valves to control airflow so the air or inert gas is released at the right pressure level.
• A circuit of feed lines or hose pipes that move air between the other components.
• The actuator converts the energy of compressed air or gas into a mechanical motion.
• A cylinder that generates motion from air pressure.

Together, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems make up the major parts and applications of fluid power. While they may represent the same form of power generation, they offer different advantages to industrial and technological companies, especially in defence and aerospace.

It is impossible to overestimate the significance of fluid power in the military and aerospace industries because it makes it possible to create cutting-edge defensive systems and spacecraft and ensures the security and success of crucial missions.

In the military, heavy machineries like tanks, armoured vehicles, and submarines all depend on fluid power to function. Hydraulic systems are responsible for propelling large equipment used in defence, while pneumatic systems guide and handle armament systems and missiles.

The control and power that fluid systems offer military operations are unmatched. Hydraulic systems are used to control the movement of a tank’s turret, allowing it to aim and fire with incredible precision. On the other hand, pneumatic systems are used to power the brakes and landing gear of aircraft, ensuring safe take-off and landing.

Similarly, aerospace draws power from hydraulic and pneumatic systems to function. Aircraft use fluid power to achieve smooth and precise control of flight surfaces and landing gear. Specifically, pneumatic systems power auxiliary systems like air conditioning and pressurization, while hydraulic systems are employed for braking and steering.

More importantly, the aerospace industry depends heavily on using fluid power to develop advanced spacecraft, satellites, and even launch vehicles like rockets. Rockets specifically utilize hydraulic systems in their engines, also to control the actuation of landing gear, flaps, rudders, and brakes. This is thanks to a hydraulic system’s ability to withstand heavy loads and offers a smooth operation.

Whereas hydraulic systems are used for loading or unloading missiles to the launcher guide arm from the magazine stowage area, positioning missiles, or controlling missile flight attitude, pneumatic systems deploy solar panels and other vital components. Together, both systems offer safety, accuracy, and controllability in aircraft.

Advantages Of Both Halves of The Fluid Power System

Hydraulic systems are often preferred and used for moving heavy loads, mostly because they yield a greater force than mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic systems. More importantly, they are easy to control and act as a source of accurate or near-accurate energy supplies.

For many companies, some advantages of hydraulic systems include the following:

• High Power-To-Weight Ratio: As previously stated, hydraulic systems can generate an impressive high force that is almost intimidating compared to smaller sizes.
• Precise Control: Hydraulic systems allow for smooth, precise control of motion, making them ideal for applications that require accurate positioning and movement.
• Self-lubrication: Unlike several heavy pieces of equipment that need to be lubricated often, the hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic systems serves as a natural lubricant for all internal components. This minimizes the occurrence of friction or wear and tear in the system, both of which are problems that plague heavy equipment. However, hydraulic systems do require constant and regular maintenance to ensure the absence of fluid leaks.
• High Efficiency: With minimal energy loss through heat and friction, hydraulic systems are undoubtedly one of the most efficient power systems there are today.

While pneumatic systems may differ slightly from their hydraulic counterparts, they also offer unique advantages suitable for industrial uses in harsh military and aerospace environments. Some of these advantages are:

• Safety: Pneumatic systems use compressed, non-flammable gas. This makes it suitable for use in hazardous environments and danger zones, such as in flammable environments typical to the military and aerospace.
• Clean Technology: Pneumatic systems use air and not fluids, which makes them free from harmful chemicals and the possibility of contamination. This makes it a much cleaner technology that can be employed in applications that require a sterile environment.
• Affordability: Pneumatic technologies are more affordable and cost-effective than hydraulic systems.
• Simplicity: Pneumatic systems use fewer complex systems and fewer components than most technological situations.
• High Speed: Pneumatics can easily operate at high speed, which makes them a great option for operations that require a quick response (operations such as this one is typical in aerospace and defence tasks).

Future Trends and Challenges in Fluid Power Technology

Fluid power technology undoubtedly offers numerous advantages in numerous industries, including the forementioned aerospace and military industries. Its precision, strength, and efficiency make it one of the most effective energy systems today.

While fluid power has great potential in the power industry, it’s important to consider and address the various limitations that could affect its performance. By proactively identifying and managing these challenges, several companies in the power industry are working towards maximizing the benefits of fluid power technology and harnessing its full potential to drive innovation and progress. These limitations create an opportunity for future trends that will shape how fluid power systems evolve and adapt in the coming years.

Some of these trends and how companies are challenging them include:

1. Increasing Energy Efficiency

Fluid power systems are praised for their efficiency in creating energy. However, even state-of-the-art fluid power systems remain widely inefficient years after technological advancement. A recent study published by the United States Department of Energy estimated their average energy efficiency at only 21%. These inefficiencies are due to various factors, including pressure/flow losses and poor system designs.

Soon, fluid power systems will require innovative solutions that will minimize inefficiencies. Key industry players have already begun developing technologies needed to increase energy efficiency. This innovation will make these systems better, safer, and more cost-effective.

2. Developing Smart Components and Even Smarter Systems

The increased adoption of smart technology has spurned conversations about creating smart fluid power systems. By integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0 concepts in fluid power technology, industries aim to optimize performance, minimize maintenance, and make fluid power systems even more efficient.

With the application of sensors, data analytics, and machine learning, smart fluid power is only a few steps away. This will make it easier for fluid power manufacturers to add more intelligence and product differentiation to their fluid power systems.

3. Integration with Advanced Systems And Electronics

Right now, fluid power systems are barely toeing the line of integration with advanced systems and electronics. As aerospace and military operations became more complex over the years, this need has become more apparent as the years go by. However, companies such as Lynch Fluid Controls are taking on the challenge and spearheading the growth of digital fluid power systems through the invention of electro-hydraulic and electro-pneumatic fluid systems.

Electrohydraulic and electro-pneumatic are powerful alternatives that offer fluid power systems more flexibility and precision than they already have. This will bolster the application of fluid power in aerospace and military operations, making these operations more advanced.

4. The Need for Compact Designs

Fluid power systems are becoming increasingly smaller as compactness becomes a trend and need in major industries, especially aerospace and military. Industry-wide trends point towards miniaturization as many industries now seek to reduce large and bulky fluid power systems to smaller lightweight options. Today, industries are creating small fluid power systems that are compact and deliver high performance regardless of changes in size and weight.

5. Addressing New Materials and Manufacturing Techniques

As new materials and manufacturing techniques are being discovered, so is the need to manufacture durable fluid power systems from these discoveries. The advent of these new materials will enable the creation of new components and overall durable fluid power systems that will be more precise and accurate than they already are. This, along with other trends, will most probably mark a more efficient and effective application of fluid power in challenging military and aerospace operations.

Real-World Military and Aerospace Applications & Technical Solutions

1. Advanced Flight Control Systems

Aircraft use fluid power systems- both pneumatics’ and hydraulics- to activate and manage equipment such as ailerons, flaps, thrust reversers, and flight controls. This function is necessary for precise control over aircraft movement, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations.

Technical Solution: The combination of electric and fluid power in Electro-hydraulic actuators (EHAs) and electro-pneumatic actuators (EPAs) is becoming more popular in advanced flight control systems. This is mostly because they combine the precision of fluid power with the control of electronic systems. Together, EHAs and EPAs improved efficiency, reduced weight, and simplified system architecture, features traditional fluid power systems lack.

2. High-performance Landing Gear Systems

Hydraulic systems independently play crucial roles in an aircraft’s ability to land. They enable the extension and retraction of gear assemblies and work to provide shock absorption while landing. Together, the landing gear works to reduce the risks of accidents.

Technical Solution: The energy efficiency of landing gear systems has been increased through the development of regenerative circuits in hydraulic systems.

These devices recapture heat energy that would otherwise be lost during gear retraction and use it to power the extension process instead. As a result, the system becomes more efficient overall and uses less energy.

3. Precision Weapons Solution

In defence, fluid power is used to operate systems that require high precision and force, such as missile launchers, artillery, and tank turrets. Fluid power systems need to be compact enough to fit into these structures and can also pack enough punch to deliver efficient force.

Technical Solution: The precision, speed, and dependability of weapon systems are being improved by developing sophisticated hydraulic and pneumatic systems. They consist of closed-loop control systems, which continuously modify system parameters based on data from sensors and actuators to ensure optimal performance under various circumstances.

4. Maintenance and Ground Support Equipment

Specialized maintenance and ground support tools, including hydraulic lifts, jacks, and testing equipment, are frequently needed for military and aerospace activities. These vital support instruments can only operate smoothly and effectively thanks to fluid power systems. Without an efficient fluid power system, many of these operations are at risk of failure.

Technical Solution: The efficiency and efficacy of ground support and maintenance machinery can be improved by introducing IoT-enabled fluid power components and systems. With these components, it will be easy to foresee maintenance needs, minimize downtime, and enhance performance by gathering and evaluating data from sensors integrated into these systems.

Innovative Fluid Power Solutions by Lynch Fluid Controls

When it comes to designing and creating advanced hydraulic systems, Lynch Fluid Controls is a key player.

The company is armed with ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certifications and years of providing service in the fluid power industry, qualities that have made them a trusted partner for military and aerospace fluid power applications.

Some areas where Lynch Fluid Controls is contributing to the fluid power needs in industries includes:

1. Custom-created Solutions

Lynch Fluid Controls has gathered extensive knowledge about the unique requirements of aerospace and military applications. As such, their teams offer custom-designed solutions tailored to meet specific aircraft and defense needs. They possess the expertise and experience necessary to create cutting-edge fluid power systems that meet or beat performance benchmarks set by the industry.

2. Cutting-edge Manufacturing Capabilities

Lynch Fluid Controls utilizes ultra-modern manufacturing facilities and industry-standard processes to ensure the manufacturing of high-quality fluid power components and systems. Using cutting-edge machining capabilities and quality assurance procedures reduces flaws and ensures that all fluid power systems manufactured exceed the specifications needed for aerospace and military applications.

3. Adaptation to cutting-edge control systems

Lynch Fluid Controls takes fluid power technology a step further than most by merging fluid power systems with advanced control systems and electronics. By doing so, they create systems with more precise control and monitoring of fluid power components. This improves diagnostics and enhances maintenance, thereby ensuring the fluid power system offers the optimal performance and reliability needed to be applied in the military and aerospace industry.

4. Embracing Smart Technologies

Lynch Fluid Controls is committed to remaining at the forefront of technological improvements and advancement. This is exactly why they are embracing the benefits of modern smart technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0 in their fluid power solutions. By doing so, they improve fluid power system designs to enhance fluid power reliability, efficiency, and efficacy in aerospace and military industries.

Conclusion: Fluid Power for The Future Of Aerospace And Military

Overall, it is impossible to overrate the importance of fluid power in aerospace and the military. Fluid power technology is integral to the success of operations in both industries, offering precision, force, safety, and reliability in critical tasks using equally critical systems.

Admittedly, the fluid power industry is not entirely rid of limitations that challenge its potential, especially in aerospace and military operations. However, by understanding these challenges and offering tailored solutions that address these needs, the industry can tackle these limitations and use them as leverage to make fluid power technology a better version of what it already is.

Lynch Fluid Controls, already a key player, is poised to contribute significantly to the future of fluid power technology through evolving manufacturing, efficiency and technologies needed for complex systems and equipment. Using its extensive experience, and advanced manufacturing capabilities, the company seeks to continue to provide innovative solutions to meet the fluid power industry’s rapidly changing needs.

Fluid power will continue to be essential in developing aerospace and military systems due to the constantly changing technical landscape, ensuring that mission-critical activities are safe, effective, and dependable.

Further References

The Future of Fluid Power: 6 Challenges Facing Hydraulic Engineers – Moog, Dave Geiger

Electro-Hydrostatic Actuation: An Attractive Energy-Efficient Option for Machine Builders – Achim Helbig, Ph.D.

We are thrilled to announce the opening of Lynch Fluid Controls’ state-of-the-art Research and Development test facility. As a leading provider of hydraulic components and solutions, Lynch Fluid Controls is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the field of fluid power. Our new test facility will enable us to further enhance our offerings and deliver exceptional testing services to our valued customers.

At Lynch Fluid Controls, we believe that thorough testing is crucial for ensuring the reliability and performance of hydraulic systems. Therefore, we are delighted to extend our testing services to all our customers. Whether you are a small business or a major player in the industry, our facility is open to serve your testing needs.

One of our key strengths lies in our partnerships with esteemed organizations such as NASA and other aerospace and defense companies. We have been privileged to contribute to groundbreaking projects and provide hydraulic solutions for critical applications. Our test facility will continue to support these partnerships by offering comprehensive testing services that meet the highest industry standards.

The testing capabilities at our facility are extensive, covering a wide range of hydraulic components, assemblies, and pumps. We provide both hydrostatic and dynamic functional testing, ensuring that every component meets the required specifications. Our water testing capabilities are particularly noteworthy, reaching pressures of up to 60,000 PSI.

Moreover, we offer witness testing, allowing our customers to be present and observe the testing process firsthand. This level of transparency and collaboration is fundamental to building trust and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Lynch Fluid Controls’ core competencies extend beyond testing. We specialize in custom and integrated hydraulic manifold systems, offering tailored solutions to meet unique customer requirements. Our in-house testing services include hydrostatic, functional, and fatigue testing, guaranteeing the durability and performance of our products.

In addition to testing and manufacturing, we provide comprehensive support services such as cartridge setting, system integration, and repairs for servo and proportional valves. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and experience to address any hydraulic challenge and provide effective solutions.

Choosing Lynch Fluid Controls for your hydraulic needs brings numerous benefits. Our ability to seamlessly transition from concept to production sets us apart. We can take your concepts, schematics, 3D models, and engineering analysis and transform them into final hydraulic and motion control subsystems. This streamlined process saves both time and costs, as you can rely on a single vendor for engineering, manufacturing, integration, assembly, testing, and validation.

Furthermore, our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. Our friendly and welcoming team excels in providing courteous service and professional, detailed, and timely feedback. We understand the importance of your systems running as designed, and we go the extra mile to ensure your complete satisfaction.

In summary, Lynch Fluid Controls is proud to unveil our new Research and Development test facility. With an array of testing capabilities, core competencies in manifold systems and in-house testing services, and the ability to deliver complete hydraulic and motion control subsystems, we are your one-stop solution provider.

We look forward to collaborating with you and delivering exceptional hydraulic solutions that exceed your expectations. Together, let’s achieve new heights in fluid power innovation.

For more information about our testing services and capabilities, please visit our website or contact our knowledgeable team.

In the space market, collaboration with innovative and reliable partners is crucial for Supply Chain Management (SCM) success. The National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) has been working with Lynch Fluid Controls Inc. for more than a decade now. This partnership highlights Lynch’s exceptional capabilities in the design, modeling, manufacturing, assembly, testing, and delivery of hydraulic motion-control solutions for NASA’s Project Artemis Exploration Ground Systems (EGS). This Small Medium Enterprise (SME) manufacturer has carved a unique niche in the “Space for Business” market and established itself as a trusted partner within NASA’s supply chain.

Lynch Fluid Controls brings value to NASA through its ability to transform ideas, concepts, schematics, and 3D models into reality. The company boasts engineering expertise and possesses Intellectual Property (IP) that allows them to handle all the iterations of the NASA Project Artemis I Mobile-Launcher Projects. This capability is highly appreciated by NASA engineers who understand the complexity involved in translating engineering drawings into real world activities such as metal cutting, machining, production, assembly, and testing.

Communication plays a vital role in Lynch’s partnership with NASA, as project timelines are constantly fluctuating due to internal and geopolitical circumstances. The ability to adapt and respond promptly to these changes is crucial for the success of any space project. NASA values the stability and reliability that Lynch brings to the table, as the company has a remarkable track record of over 30 years in the industry and a global reputation for excellence. Furthermore, Lynch holds certifications such as ISO/AS9100/Controlled Goods and Defense Logistics Agency, ensuring compliance with quality management systems (QMS) and continuous improvement (CI) programs.

To thrive in the competitive “Space for Business” market, SME organizations must identify niches that bring value to the customer.  Lynch Fluid Controls has successfully achieved this by offering hydraulic motion-control solutions and sub-assemblies tailored specifically for NASA’s Space Launch System Umbilical Arms Mobile-Launcher Projects. The company’s commitment to design validation, modeling, manufacturing, assembly, testing, documentation and timely delivery has earned the trust of NASA’s technical architects.

Under a single roof, Lynch provides a seamless transition from theoretical engineering drawings to machine language, planning, programming, and state-of-the-art manufacturing. This holistic approach streamlines the production process, ensuring a higher level of efficiency and quality control. NASA acknowledges the benefits of collaborating with a vendor that possesses both theoretical engineering expertise and the capability to execute projects from start to finish with their project management skill sets.

The “Space for Business” market poses unique challenges, including long-term commitments, low product volumes, and a lack of critical mass. To address these challenges, organizations must price their offerings appropriately to minimize risks, ensure sustainability and their long-term health. Lynch Fluid Controls has recognized the importance of striking a balance between providing valuable solutions and maintaining a viable business model.

In conclusion, Lynch Fluid Controls Inc. stands as a testament to the success that can be achieved by SME manufacturers in the aerospace and defense industry. Their partnership with NASA showcases their ability to pioneer and access the “Space for Business” market. By leveraging their engineering expertise, intellectual property, tribal knowledge, and seamless project execution, Lynch has become a trusted and valued supplier to NASA’s Project Artemis programs.  Their dedication to quality and communication has solidified their position as a trusted player in the fluid power industry and a true partner in the space and defense worlds.

Artemis I was a significant mission for NASA, as it marked their return to lunar exploration after decades of absence. As the first in a series of increasingly complex missions that will enable human exploration of the moon and eventually mars, the main objectives of the Artemis  Program is to test and validate Exploration Ground Systems (EGS), Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion Capsule System.

The mission is the first integrated flight test of NASA’S deep space exploration system. Artemis I involved the unmanned launch of the Orion spacecraft on the Space Launch System rocket from the Kennedy Space Center on November 16, 2022. After completing one flyby of the Moon on November 21 and a second on November 25, the Orion spacecraft returned to Earth, successfully splashing down safely in the Pacific Ocean on December 11.

After its 1.4-million-mile mission around the moon and back to earth, the capsule was transported from San Diego, California to Kennedy’s Multi Payload Processing Facility in Cape Canaveral, Florida, by truck, arriving December 30^th, 2022.

With Orion safely back at Kennedy, technicians have begun removing payloads from the capsule, for inspection, analysis and de-servicing operations. (See updates and photos from NASA)

The successful completion of Artemis I paves the way for a series of crewed future missions, including Artemis II, a crewed lunar fly-by that is presently scheduled for 2024.

Did you know that hydraulics not only work in space, but they play an essential role in the operation of space vehicles, their logistics and infrastructure? Properly functioning hydraulics on space vehicles are critical to ensuring missions are safe, efficient, and successful. Lynch is proud of its role in Artemis I and looks forward to NASA’s future missions to the moon and beyond!