Fluid Power and Hydraulic Systems
Fluid power technology is one of the central research areas of the Laboratory for Fluid Power and Controls. We research hydraulic valves, pumps, actuators, and hydrostatic drives for industrial and robotic applications. We place special emphasis on developing energy-efficient components and their experimental evaluation.
Highlighted Achievements
Development of Advanced Hydraulic Actuators
Development and evaluation of various types of linear and rotary actuators for industrial and robotic applications.
Industry Collaboration
Long-standing collaboration with domestic and foreign companies on the development of new hydraulic components and the optimization of existing systems.
Research Infrastructure
Establishment of specialized laboratory test rigs for testing valves, cylinders, actuators, and hydrostatic drives.
Key Activities
Hydraulic Components
Researchers
Jan Pustavrh MSc Mech. Eng.
Email: jan.pustavrh@fs.uni-lj.si
Jan Bartolj MSc Mech. Eng.
Email: jan.bartolj@fs.uni-lj.si
Nejc Novak PhD, Dipl. Eng. Mech.
Email: nejc.novak@fs.uni-lj.si
and other researchers depending on the specific project.
Active Projects
SOFT LOGGING, Soft Robotic Hydraulic Log Gripping System (2023–2026)
Development of an innovative hydraulic gripping system for log handling using soft robotics principles.
COOL PRESS, Development of a Barocaloric Cooling Device (2022–2025)
Use of hydrostatic pressure to develop a new generation of energy-efficient cooling systems.
Selected Publications
Comparison of hydraulic, pneumatic and electric linear actuation systems (Scientific Reports, 2023)
Analysis of different guide elements' designs in hydraulic cylinders (Applied Sciences, 2025)
Influence of spool impact on preloaded threaded plugs in hydraulic valves (Applied Sciences, 2026)
→ Link to all publications in this area
Key Topics for Theses
Selected Topics
• Hydraulic actuators
• Proportional valves
• Stewart platforms
• Hydrostatic drives
→ Link to the list of all theses