Have you ever wondered whether you can mix ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil? Although this may sound like an easy question, using the wrong hydraulic oil can influence the efficiency of your machine and might even cause costly repairs.
There is a range of hydraulic oil having different viscosity and, in particular, ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 are two oils that are often used. Even though those oils might look the same, they are intended for different working conditions.Â
What makes them different is the degree of viscosity. Viscosity affects the way they flow and protect hydraulic components regardless of the temperature and load. At Fubex Lubricants, we have a range of hydraulic oils suitable for various usages and types of equipment. You can expect prompt delivery of the required product along with price matching and hassle-free return of the product. Need help choosing the right oil? Call us at +971 50 544 9614 — our friendly team is ready to assist!
Awais I., Sales Director, says, ‘‘Mixing ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil may seem like a quick fix, but using the viscosity recommended by the equipment manufacturer is always the safest choice. Using the correct hydraulic oil results in better performance, minimum wear, and extending the life of your machinery.’’
In this guide, you’ll learn the differences between ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil, whether they can be mixed, and how to choose the right grade for your hydraulic system.
Significance of Utilizing the Right Hydraulic Oil Type
It is crucial to choose the right Hydraulic oil type. An incorrect selection can lead to problems with your machinery.
Higher Equipment Damage
Selecting too light oil may not protect the moving parts of the hydraulics effectively, which will lead to wear out of hydraulic pumps, pumps, and bearings.
Reduced Operational Efficiency
On the other hand, if the oil used is too thick, it would slow down the flow of oil through the hydraulic system. This results in more energy consumption, as the hydraulic pump has to spend more energy to get the oil moved around the machinery.
Heating
Using unsuitable hydraulic oil would lead to a dangerous build-up of heat inside the hydraulic system. Eventually, the heat will destroy the hydraulic oil and compromise the system’s seals and parts.
Difficult Start in Low Temperatures
Thick oil flows very slowly and starts the apparatus long before the oil reaches the proper temperature.
How Temperature Affects Hydraulic Oil Selection
Temperature plays a significant role in the working process of hydraulic oil. Higher temperature means that the oil will be less thick, while lower temperature will produce thicker oil.
When selecting the viscosity parameter, you will need to consider both temperature and operating conditions of your equipment.
Cold Environments
Machinery that is used in cold weather usually requires hydraulic oil with low viscosity, such as ISO VG 32. This oil has better fluidity, which allows the equipment to start working easier in cold conditions.
Moderate Temperatures
Most industrial equipment operates in moderate temperatures. The reason why ISO VG 46 is the preferred grade for hydraulic oil is that it offers the necessary flow and protection.
High Temperatures or Heavy Loads
The ISO VG 68 is often used by equipment that operates under high temperatures or heavy loads. Its higher viscosity allows ISO VG 68 to create a stronger protective oil film.
ISO VG 46 Hydraulic Oil
ISO VG 46 is the most commonly used hydraulic oil grade for industrial and mobile equipment. It features an optimum viscosity, thus being the best choice to be applied in different hydraulic systems.
Characteristics
- Optimum viscosity
- Optimal blend of freely flowing properties and good lubrication
- Operates well at average temperatures
Applications
ISO VG 46 is mainly utilized in:
- Heavy equipment and machinery
- Agricultural machinery
- Hydraulic presses machines
- Injection molding machines
- Industrial power systems
Advantages
- Suitable for a lot of hydraulic systems
- Optimum for climate conditions that are average
- Provides continuous lubrication and protection
- Works well under all conditions
Limitations
Though ISO VG 46 works perfectly well in most cases, it might not work well in extreme climates.
ISO VG 68 Hydraulic Oil
ISO VG 68 is a high-viscosity hydraulic oil designed for heavy-duty equipment that operates under high loads and high temperatures.
Key Characteristics
- Has very high viscosity
- Creates good protective oil film
- Offers very good protection for heavy loads
- Performs well at high temperatures
Typical Uses
ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil is usually used in:
- Mining equipment
- Construction equipment
- Hydraulic systems of ships
- Both gear and hydraulic systems
- High pressure hydraulic systems
Advantages
- It provides good wear protection
- It gives good performance at high temperatures
- Can help to seal old or damaged hydraulic systems
Limitations
The higher viscosity of ISO VG 68 causes slow movement when starting in cold weather. It may increase the power consumption of high-speed hydraulic systems.
ISO VG 46 vs. ISO VG 68
Both ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 work well in hydraulic systems, but each is made for different operating conditions. ISO VG 46 hydraulic oil is relatively thin and hence flows easily. It is suitable for use in light duty or high speed machinery.
In contrast, ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil is thicker. It is suitable for heavy duty machinery and machinery used in high temperatures or heavy loads. Before switching from one to the other, it is advisable to consult the machinery manual.
How to Choose Between ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 Hydraulic Oil
Choosing between ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 is easier when you look at how and where your equipment is used. Consider the following:
Operating Temperature
If your equipment operates at elevated temperatures or generates excessive amounts of heat, then ISO VG 68 would be a good fit. In moderate temperature ranges, ISO VG 46 is more likely the better solution.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
When selecting hydraulic fluid, always refer to your equipment manual. It ensures there will be no overheating, reduced wear, and no need for expensive repairs.
Type of Work
The nature of operation should be taken into account as well.
- ISO VG 46: Recommended for light and high-speed operations.
- ISO VG 68: This is better suited to machines that have tough conditions.
Environment
When the machine you use works in tough environment conditions like at construction sites, mines, harbors or farmlands, then ISO VG 68 will be the one that suits your needs. For less extreme conditions, ISO VG 46 would be enough.
Can You Mix ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 Hydraulic Oil?
The short answer is no. It is not recommended to mix ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 hydraulic oils. If the oils’ types are the same, for instance, both are anti-wear hydraulic oils, mixing them is not likely to cause a dangerous chemical reaction. However, the oil’s viscosity is affected. Hence it may influence the hydraulic system’s pressure and lubrication as well as its performance.
Once mixed, the oil won’t be either ISO VG 46 or ISO VG 68 but will have a viscosity somewhere between the two grades, which may not work for your equipment.
The mixing of these oils should be carried out only in case of emergencies like low oil level and lack of the correct grade of oil; once done, the system should be drained and filled with the needed hydraulic oil so that machines will continue to work well without wear.
Can You Use ISO VG 68 Hydraulic Oil Instead of ISO VG 46?
Sometimes, but it is not always the correct choice. ISO VG 68 hydraulic fluid would work well in situations where the machinery is subjected to heavy load, works under high temperatures or when the manufacturer indicates that both types could be used. Its thicker film provides enhanced protection.
Still, ISO VG 68 cannot be used in systems where lighter oil is needed. Using oil that is too viscous can affect the performance of the equipment and lead to overheating and wear of the equipment parts.
It is always recommended checking the instructions for the equipment before changing the grade of the hydraulic oil.
Which Hydraulic Fluids Meet ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 Specifications?
There are several kinds of hydraulic oil that have been developed for ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 grades. Among those, some include:
- AW (Anti-Wear) Hydraulic Oils: They are used to minimize wear and tear in the components of the hydraulic systems, such as pumps and valves.
- Premium Hydraulic Oils: They are intended for the use in industrial and mobile machinery that works for many hours or in hard conditions.
- Hydraulic Oils with Special Additives: They help to prevent rust, oxidation, and foaming in order to maintain good working of the hydraulic system.
They can be used in various industries including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and mining.
Best Practices for Hydraulic Oil Management
Below are some simple measures that will assist you in maintaining your hydraulic systems in a proper state:
- Ensure that the hydraulic oil is always used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Make sure that you check the hydraulic oil level and condition regularly.
- Change the hydraulic oil when required according to the specifications.
- Always use the proper filter for the cleaning of the oil.
- Hydraulic oil should be stored in sealed cans to avoid contamination.
Management of hydraulic oil can be beneficial for performance, lower maintenance cost, and increased life of the machine. The hydraulic oil is not only a fluid, but it is an important substance used to lubricate parts of the machines and protect them from wear and tear.
Final Takeaways
Selecting hydraulic oil is important for operating machinery effectively and minimizing damage. ISO VG 46 and ISO VG 68 are frequently used hydraulic oils; however, the two should not be interchanged as each is made for different conditions.
It is always advisable to refer to the instructions given by the equipment manufacturer and choose the right viscosity of oil used in the production to obtain optimal results and prolong the life of the equipment.
Are you looking for appropriate hydraulic oil to be used in your equipment? Reach out to Fubex Lubricants now. Our specialists are ready to help you select the hydraulic oil needed for specific application and ensure the hydraulic system works effectively due to high-quality hydraulic oil use.
FAQs
Q1: What is ISO VG 46 hydraulic oil used for?
There are various uses for ISO VG 46 hydraulic oil in various hydraulic machines. It is a good combination of fluidity and protection, preferably used in various categories of machines including construction machines, agricultural tools, and various types of presses.
Q2: Which hydraulic oil is best for cold weather?
ISO VG 32 hydraulic oil is the best hydraulic oil for cold weather conditions since it is less thick and thus can flow easily in the equipment to ensure its correct operation.
Q3: When should you use ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil?
ISO VG 68 hydraulic oil is suitable for machines that operate under load and temperature conditions because of its higher viscosity.
