CONEXPO 2026 is in full swing and, from the conversations I have had so far at the show, key themes that have emerged include the increasing integration of sensors, a greater emphasis on integrated components and systems, and the need to improve ease of use for construction equipment operators.
On the sensors front, automation is a driver for the increasing use of these components, as well as the need to ensure safe operation of construction equipment and other machinery — an aspect some noted is becoming ever more critical for many OEMs. Many people from the fluid power industry I spoke to ahead of the show, including David Stevenson of Bucher Hydraulics, expect advancements in automation to be a dominant theme at this year’s show as the necessary technologies like sensors continue to advance as well. You can read my interview with Stevenson in today’s newsletter to learn more about this and other technology themes he expects to see represented at CONEXPO 2026.
There has been no shortage of new technology launches at the show as well, such as Bailey Hydraulics’ new hydraulic cylinder, which brings the ease of maintenance associated with tie rod designs together with the high-pressure capabilities of welded cylinders to offer machine owners the best of both.
In the same ease-of-use vein, Helios Technologies’ Faster brand is showing its newly launched MultiQTC multiconnection system designed to make hydraulic attachment changes for excavators. It consolidates multiple hydraulic connection steps into a single maneuver to help improve operator control and reduce connection time so machine operators can maintain productivity.
Be sure to stay tuned for more details on these and other new technologies being launched at this year’s show. You can also visit our CONEXPO 2026 page to easily find all our content related to the event which will be updated throughout the show. And if you’re at the show, let us know what technologies or trends you're seeing.
Sara Jensen, Editor, Power & Motion
