Hydraulic systems are the backbone of many industries, ensuring the smooth operation of all kinds of machines, from airplanes to agricultural equipment. Without these systems, our world would be drastically different. This underscores the crucial role of hydraulic oils in ensuring the smooth operation of these systems.
Hydraulics, in simple terms, is the science of how pressure applied to a fluid can transmit energy in all directions, affecting any surface it touches. This concept is best illustrated by the brake system in a car, where pressing the pedal pushes brake fluid through the lines, slowing the vehicle.
Pressing the brake pedal on a car pushes brake fluid through the brake lines, expanding calipers that force the brake pads to restrict the rotor’s movement, causing the vehicle to slow. Releasing the brake pedal allows the fluid to flow back through the system, ready to be reused.
Fluids are an essential component of any hydraulic system. They ensure optimum performance, increase equipment longevity, and contribute to reliable operations. However, using the wrong fluid in a hydraulic system can damage equipment, degrade performance, and lower reliability. Thus, understanding the importance of hydraulic oils can help you make the best choice for your unique use case, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of your equipment.
What are Hydraulic Fluids?
Hydraulic fluids, the lifeblood of any hydraulic system, are designed to do more than transmit power. They also lubricate, transfer heat, remove contaminants, and prevent corrosion. Understanding these properties is key to choosing the right hydraulic oil for your equipment.
Viscosity
Viscosity defines a fluid’s resistance to flow, its “thickness.” A high degree of viscosity indicates a slower flow rate. The appropriate viscosity for a specific scenario ensures the equipment is properly lubricated and the environment is ideal for pressure transmission. Low-viscosity oils are better suited for systems that require faster response times.
Lubricants
Lubricating properties reduce friction. Excessive friction increases equipment wear and tear, which can shorten the usable life of equipment and equipment components.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs between oxygen and hydraulic oils. These reactions will undoubtedly alter the oil’s properties, increasing viscosity. Sludge and deposits can form due to these reactions, restricting flow. This results in filters becoming clogged and an overall slow-down of system operation. Oxidation also increases corrosion and can lead to pump failure. The chance of oxidation increases at higher temperatures.
Additives
Additives are elements blended into hydraulic oils that can help reduce wear and tear and inhibit corrosion. They may also extend the operating environment for systems operating in extreme temperatures.
Allegheny Petroleum has supplied industrial lubricants and additives for over 35 years. Offering total customization, Allegheny Petroleum delivers personalized solutions tailored to our clients’ unique needs.
Different Types of Hydraulic Oils
Companies manufacture hydraulic oils using different bases, creating a diverse market that allows customers to select an appropriate product based on their operational and budgetary requirements.
Mineral-Based Oils
Traditional hydraulic fluids are mineral-based. While cost-effective, mineral-based oils may lack thermal stability in some use cases. They’re also less environmentally friendly than other oils. Manufacturers create mineral-based oils from crude oil and mix in additives to alter the oil’s characteristics depending on the product type they’re trying to make. Viscosity improvers, for example, will have different effects on the oil than oxidation inhibitors.
Synthetic Oils
The benefit of synthetic oil is that, by its nature, these oils are artificial, which means the manufacturers can modify virtually any aspect of the base oil and customize them for specific applications. Certain chemical compounds can operate more efficiently at high and low temperatures and may better protect against wear and tear. Synthetic oils also deliver a higher viscosity index and flashpoint than mineral-based oils. The downside is that these oils are more expensive than other products.
Fire-Resistant Oils
Water-based hydraulic oils may require additives to prevent corrosion and freezing. They are used in environments where the risk of fire is high. Some of these oils are biodegradable, making them more environmentally friendly. Most water-based oils are designed for particular applications.
Biodegradable Oils
Manufacturers create bio-based lubricants from canola, soy, or sunflower oils. Bio-based means they are biodegradable, have less environmental impact, and offer customers sustainability. Although they provide many of the same properties as synthetic and mineral oils, they may pose compatibility issues with traditional equipment and may not last as long.
Choosing the Right Hydraulic Oil for Your Application
When choosing between hydraulic oil products, the most critical factors are pump design and viscosity. Depending on their design, two pumps could fulfill the same purpose yet require different oil viscosities. The best oil for any situation begins with checking the manufacturer’s recommendations. Manufacturers test their equipment under varying conditions to determine which type of hydraulic oil optimizes performance and longevity.
Beyond the equipment manufacturer’s recommendation, consider the following factors when deciding on the appropriate oil for any application:
Environment: Hydraulic oil formulas are created with specific environmental regulations in mind. Some products are more biodegradable and less environmentally toxic than others while offering the same level of performance.
Temperature: Consider the likely operating environment to ensure reliable operations at varying temperatures. Viscosity can change significantly at extreme temperatures.
Operating Conditions: Hydraulic oils should minimize any energy loss resulting from heat or friction to ensure efficient power usage. The oil used should also be able to provide lubrication and corrosion protection to extend the life of the equipment and its components.
Compatibility: Hydraulic oils should be compatible with system materials to prevent leaks and other damage, which can result in compromised performance and future repairs.
Whether you’re looking for traditional hydraulic oils or considering innovative biodegradable options, Allegheny Petroleum’s years of expertise allow us to provide tailored recommendations that fit the needs of any application. Contact us today to see our product list and discuss which hydraulic oil solution would perform best.