Graduate Certificate in Fluid Power
MSOE’s Graduate Certificate in Fluid Power is designed for recent graduates and professionals interested in developing in-depth engineering skills in the field of hydraulic fluid power and motion control.
MSOE Fluid Power Institute™
Established in 1962, the Fluid Power Institute™ at MSOE has become a leader in motion control and fluid power education, research and evaluation, distinguishing it as one of the nation’s foremost academic fluid power research laboratories.
Over 63 Years of Innovation in hydraulic fluid power research and development
4 State-of-the-Art Labs dedicated to fluid power technology
20 Configurable Test Bed for precise evaluation of hydraulic components and systems
17,186 Square Feet of Lab Space for cutting-edge research and hands-on learning
Expertise in:
- Hydraulic Fluids
- Sensors & Data Analysis
- Hydraulic Component Performance Evaluation
Custom Power Units designed to replicate real-world conditions
Meet the Director — Paul Michael 
The Fluid Power Institute™ (FPI) has been a leader in hydraulic fluid power innovation since 1962. We specialize in evaluating new fluid power technologies using customized power units that replicate real-world conditions with precision. Our applied research services help industry partners evaluate and refine new technologies while providing hands-on learning opportunities for MSOE students. Each year, graduate and undergraduate students gain invaluable experience with fluid power components, electronics, controls, sensors, data analysis, and systems in our labs. We’re always looking for new collaboration opportunities—whether it’s testing cutting-edge technology or sponsoring student projects. Let’s explore how we can work together to advance innovation in the great field of Fluid Power!
Fluid Power Institute Test Cell
This cell includes a hydraulic power dynamometer for pump and motor efficiency studies.
Axial Piston
Fully instrumented axial piston pump with sensors for measuring temperature and pressure conditions.
Cooling Fan
Cooling fan and 125 HP low-speed constant torque load motor
Directional Control Valve
Directional control valve and flow meter with ball valve.
Electric Motor
200 HP Electric motor
Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir
25 Gal. Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir
Test Motor
Test motor (yellow) with torque transducer
Fluid Power Institute™ Research Capabilities
Evaluation, Research & Analysis
Specific tests we perform include, but are not limited to, performance, efficiency, endurance, fatigue and burst. Additionally, we provide clients with custom assessments for components and systems using finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics and other modelling programs.
Tribology
The FPI’s innovative reputation is further bolstered by the capabilities of our tribology laboratory. Here, we have developed specialized analytical tools such as particle counting, ferrography, laser particle imaging, atomic force microscopy, stereomicroscopy and more. Clients of our tribology services include both commercial and governmental institutions. A notable portion of our research and development on fluid power efficiency is funded by the National Science Foundation.
Professional Education and Research Development
MSOE offers a number of educational seminars and certification courses through our Professional Education and Research Development (PERD) program. Visit the PERD webpage to find out more!
Industry Partnerships
We are a member of several industry organizations. Through our 30-year membership to the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA), we contribute to youth outreach, ongoing/professional education, and industry advisory committees. Our staff also contributes material to organizations like ASTM and ISO.
