The Backbone of Modern Farming Systems

When most people think about hydraulics, agriculture isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. But spend a day around a functioning farm, and you’ll quickly realise just how deeply fluid power is embedded in every part of the operation.

From sowing to harvest and everything in between, hydraulics keep agricultural equipment moving. 

Hydraulic systems are responsible for powering, lifting, steering, and controlling a wide range of modern ag machinery. Including:

• Tractor attachments – ploughs, seeders, harrows, and sprayers depend on reliable hydraulic control for depth, rate, and timing.
• Harvesting equipment – combines and forage harvesters use hydraulics to power conveyors, cutters, and choppers.
• Loaders and handlers – moving feed, soil, or harvested crops with articulated loaders, forklifts, or skid steers powered by hydraulics.
• Irrigation systems – many pressurised irrigation setups, including pivot and drip systems, rely on hydraulic actuators and pumps.
• Material transport systems – hydraulic-powered conveyors and tipper trailers are essential during peak seasons.
  

For many operators it can be surprising to see how much overlap there is in the hydraulic skillsets between industries. Whether you’re moving ore or oats, the systems work on the same principles — pressure, control, reliability.

The agricultural sector, like many others, is facing a skills shortage. 

While many ag workers are highly capable, formal training in hydraulic systems is still rare — especially when it comes to fault-finding, system diagnostics, and preventative maintenance.

Poorly maintained hydraulic systems in ag equipment lead to:

• Unplanned downtime in peak harvest or sowing windows
• Inconsistent planting or fertiliser application
• Reduced equipment lifespan due to undiagnosed leaks or pressure issues
• Safety risks during lifting or transport tasks
  

Proper training helps operators and technicians recognise issues before they become expensive failures and it improves their ability to get machines back online fast when problems do occur.

Modern agriculture is about more than production — it’s about efficiency, adaptability, and long-term viability. While we steer clear of “greenwashing,” we do support smarter, leaner systems that reduce waste, save fuel, and make better use of limited resources.

That’s part of our Planet Plus mindset — not marketing spin, just better ways to operate.

If you’re working in ag — or thinking of bringing hydraulic skills across from mining, construction, or utilities — it’s worth recognising how critical these systems are to keeping farms moving.