Every year, at least one European country hosts a great technical conference for fluid power technology. Probably the most well-known is the one held at Aachen and Dresden in rotating years. The 8th IFK International Fluid Power Conference is slated for Dresden later this month, March 26-28, and while I've never attended personally, I have heard from my peers that these conferences are always well worth the trip.
The organizing committee has released its conference schedule, several slots highlighting new technology developments for a variety of components and applications. The event kicks off with discussions on valves, pumps, pneumatics, and fundamentals and simulation. In the afternoon, system controls and mobile systems are addressed. Day two leans heavily on fundamentals and mobile hydraulics, with specific looks at automotive applications, and industrial and pneumatic situations.
A complete schedule can be downloaded on the IFK website. If you're attending, good luck and enjoy this great conference!