The article is an overview of various materials used in power hydraulics for basic hydraulic actuators components such as cylinders, cylinder caps, pistons, piston rods, glands, and sealing systems. The aim of this review is to systematize the state of the art in the field of materials and surface modification methods used in the production of actuators. The paper discusses the requirements for the elements of actuators and analyzes the existing literature in terms of appearing failures and damages. The most frequently applied materials used in power hydraulics are described, and various surface modifications of the discussed elements, which are aimed at improving the operating parameters of actuators, are presented. The most frequently used materials for actuators elements are iron alloys. However, due to rising ecological requirements, there is a tendency to looking for modern replacements to obtain the same or even better mechanical or tribological parameters. Sealing systems are manufactured mainly from thermoplastic or elastomeric polymers, which are characterized by low friction and ensure the best possible interaction of seals with the cooperating element. In the field of surface modification, among others, the issue of chromium plating of piston rods has been discussed, which, due, to the toxicity of hexavalent chromium, should be replaced by other methods of improving surface properties.
Keywords: coatings; hydraulic actuators; power hydraulics; sealing system; structural materials; surface modifications.