Hydraulic oil plays a key role in hydraulic systems, even though it’s often overlooked. This special fluid helps power machinery, keeps parts lubricated, removes heat, and cleans the system by carrying away dirt.
Without the right hydraulic oil, machines can wear down quickly and don’t run as efficiently. In this article, we’ll explore why hydraulic oil is so important, what makes it unique, and how to choose the right type for different systems.
The Role of Oil in Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic oil is very important for a hydraulic system, but people don’t talk about it much. This special fluid helps move power through hydraulic machines and equipment. It also does many other jobs, like keeping parts lubricated, removing heat, and carrying away dirt and debris.
To handle high pressure and extreme temperatures, hydraulic oils have special additives that make them work better and last longer. Another important job of hydraulic oil is to carry dirt and other contaminants to a filter so they can be removed. It also helps settle unwanted particles in the reservoir instead of keeping them floating in the oil.
Simply put, the health of a hydraulic system depends on its oil. If the oil stays clean and under 140°F, the whole system will run better and last longer.
Hydraulic oil has three main jobs: moving power, carrying away heat, and keeping parts slippery so they don’t wear out. It is specially made for these tasks and has different ingredients than regular oils. The formula can change depending on what the machine needs.
Why Hydraulic Oil Is Preferred Over Other Fluids
Hydraulic oil is the best choice for hydraulic systems because it does many important jobs. It helps move power, keeps parts slippery to reduce wear, removes heat, and protects the system from damage. It also stays strong under different temperatures and doesn’t easily foam or break down. That’s why it’s used in heavy-duty machines.
Why Hydraulic Oil is the Best Choice:
- Doesn’t Squish (Low Compressibility): Unlike air, hydraulic oil doesn’t squeeze down, so it moves power efficiently through the system.
- Reduces Friction (Lubrication): It helps parts slide smoothly, stopping them from wearing out too fast.
- Cools the System (Heat Dissipation): It absorbs heat and keeps the system from getting too hot.
- Stays the Right Thickness (Viscosity Stability): No matter if it’s hot or cold, it stays at the right thickness to work properly.
- Protects Moving Parts (Anti-Wear Additives): Special ingredients help prevent damage to important parts.
- Stops Rust (Corrosion Resistance): It has anti-rust ingredients that keep metal parts from rusting.
- Keeps Water Out (Demulsibility): It separates from Water, so Water doesn’t mess up the system.
These features help hydraulic systems run smoothly and last longer.
Types of Hydraulic Oil
Hydraulic oil comes in different types, each with unique benefits. Here are the main types:
1. Synthetic Hydraulic Oils
These are man-made oils designed for high performance. They work well under extreme heat, cold, and pressure but cost more than other types.
- Polyol Ester Oils – Great for fire resistance and stability in different temperatures. Biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Phosphate Ester Oils – Similar to polyol ester oils but made differently. They resist heat, fire, and wear.
- Water-Glycol Oils – Made with Water and glycol, making them non-toxic and fire-resistant. Best for lower temperatures.
2. Mineral Hydraulic Oils
The most common type is made from crude oil. While not as advanced as synthetic oils, additives can improve performance.
- Affordable – Costs less than synthetic oils.
- Durable – Works well in mines and construction sites.
- Rust & Wear Protection – Helps prevent damage in tough conditions.
3. Vegetable Hydraulic Oils
Made from plant oils like sunflower and canola. A great choice for those who want an eco-friendly option.
- Non-Toxic & Biodegradable – Safer for the environment.
- Fire-Resistant – Has a high flash point, reducing fire risk.
- Good Lubrication – Helps reduce wear on machine parts.
Each type of hydraulic oil has its strengths, so choosing the right one depends on your needs!
Choosing the Right Hydraulic Oil
Hydraulic systems are machines that move power over short distances. To make sure they work well and last a long time, it’s important to use the right hydraulic fluid. But how do you know which one to choose?
Picking the right fluid can be tricky because hydraulic systems are different. Things like the type of equipment, how hard it works, and the temperature all affect which fluid you should use.
The first thing to think about is the type of pump:
- Vane pumps give a smooth flow but can wear out quickly without the right oil.
- Piston pumps last longer and can handle higher pressure, but they’re more expensive and complicated.
- Gear pumps are cheaper and easier to fix, but they work less efficiently and can only handle lower pressure.
For equipment used indoors, a regular hydraulic oil with the right thickness is usually enough. Common options are ISO 32, 46, or 68. The oil should be thick enough to protect the system but thin enough to flow easily and save energy. The best thickness is usually between 160 and 13 CST.
For equipment used outdoors, things are tougher. These systems often face higher pressure, harsher work, and extreme temperatures. They also have to deal with dirt, dust, and water. The oil needs to work well in cold weather to start easily and stay thick enough in hot weather to protect the system.
The best oils for outdoor systems have a higher viscosity index (VI) than regular oils. Regular oils have a VI of around 100, but oils for extreme conditions should have a VI of at least 140, and some go over 200 for very hot or cold temperatures. This helps the oil stay the right thickness in any weather.
Bottom Line: Why Oil is Used in Hydraulic Systems
In summary, hydraulic oil is essential for keeping hydraulic systems running smoothly and lasting longer. It transfers power, reduces wear and tear, cools the system, and protects against rust and water damage. By choosing the right type of hydraulic oil based on the equipment and its working conditions, you can ensure your machinery works efficiently and stays in good shape for a long time. Whether you’re using it indoors or outdoors, understanding the right oil for the job is key to getting the best performance from your hydraulic systems.
Ensure your hydraulic systems run efficiently and last longer with Fubex Lubricants Hydraulic Oil. Choose the right fluid for optimal performance. Contact us today!
FAQs
Q1: Why is the oil used in a hydraulic press?
Ans: Oil is used because it doesn’t compress, allowing pressure to be transferred quickly and precisely. It also lubricates the moving parts, reducing wear and tear.
Q2: What are the criteria for selecting hydraulic fluid?
Ans: To pick the right hydraulic fluid, you need to consider things like how well it handles heat, resists water and chemicals, protects against wear, stays the same thickness in different temperatures, and lasts a long time.
