The invention describes devices for performing thermodynamic work on a
fluid, such as pumps, compressors and fans. The thermodynamic work may be
used to provide a driving force for moving the fluid. Work performed on
the fluid may be transmitted to other devices, such as a piston in a
hydraulic actuation device. The devices may include one or more
electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that
deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The
electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection
of the electroactive polymer may be used to perform thermodynamic work on
the fluid. The devices may be designed to efficiently operate at a
plurality of operating conditions, such as operating conditions that
produce an acoustic signal above or below the human hearing range. The
devices may be used in thermal control systems, such as refrigeration
system, cooling systems and heating systems.