Mechatronics in fluid power drives. The paper deals with the basic concepts connected with mechatronics and the relation of mechatronics with fluid power systems (hydraulic and pneumatic control systems). The examplary solutions for mechatronic system’s construction including control of pneumatic parallel manipulator of tripod type and intelligent control in teaching/play-back motion of pneumatic servosystem are discussed.

Application of the MEMS valves. This article describes principles of operation and applications of valves used in microhydraulic and micropneumatic. Microvalves find application in microhydraulic and micropneumatic systems near micropump for example in portable laboratory like μTAS, as its inherent elements.

Didactic stand for transporting and sorting of cylindrical elements. Universal didactic stand for transporting and sorting of cylindrical elements has been described. An important role in the teaching process has been pointed. Modular structure of the stand enables a diversification and a big variety of tasks in the work with students.

Selected problems related to the structure of special hydraulic cylinder. A structure of special cylinder applied to the drive mechanisms operating at difficult conditions (the great damp, the high temperature) were described. An influence of the environment on the using of discussed cylinder has been analyzed. A need to get the tightness in the subassembly piston and gland has been pointed.

Drive system of ballast pumps with using of hydraulic central loading system. The idea of hydraulic drive and control of submerged ballast pumps with using of hydraulic central loading system on modern product and chemical tankers is presented in the paper. The structure of submerged ballast pump and main parts of hydraulic system mounted on board of product tanker B573-I class m/t “Engen Rainbow” built in Szczecin Shipyard are described. Performance flow and drive characteristics of ballast pumps are given.