The first edition was used more than expected. Several years have passed since then, and just as everything evolves and improves, so has the content of the book at hand. This is the result of the continuous enhancement of the subject by the manufacturers, thorough research, and the evolutionary course of the material through the trials of teaching by the author to undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as in seminars to train technicians.

In the present edition, the figures have been significantly improved, the old material has been expanded, and new content has been added. Some difficult points have been analyzed and explained in more detail, and many useful elements from the existing literature have been provided. Special mention is made of the observations regarding the maintenance of hydraulic systems, because just like any machine, a hydraulic system experiences fluctuating operating conditions due to load, wear, and damage. The technician must be able to receive and explain the messages.

The need for specialized training in the usage and applications of hydraulic systems is great and requires clarity in the presentation of the subject by those involved with them. The book at hand, aiming for the above, has the sole purpose of assisting trainees in Mechanical Engineering, students, and constantly learning Engineers.

[Excerpt from the preface]