IHP Micro Project
IHP Micro Project
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WHAT IS HYDRAULIC OIL?
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Types of hydraulic fluids
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One of the main benefits of conventional hydraulic oils is
their cost-effectiveness. Thanks to their thermal stability and
anti-wear properties, they can endure the most demanding
working conditions. They have a wide range of uses in various
sectors, including mining, construction, forestry, etc.
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SYNTHETIC-BASED HYDRAULIC OILS
Synthetic hydraulic oils are chemically-produced base oils.
They consist of molecules precisely arranged to enhance oil
performance.
As such, they compensate for the deficiencies of mineral-
based hydraulic oils. For example, they offer high fluid
stability, lubricity, and biodegradability. Synthetic-based
hydraulic oils are a perfect choice for machinery operating in
extremely high/low temperatures or high pressures.
Some of the main drawbacks of synthetic hydraulic oils are
their higher price and incompatibility with certain seal
materials.
Now, synthetic-based hydraulic fluids can be classified into
the following categories:
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POLYOL ESTER-BASED SYNTHETIC HYDRAULIC FLUIDS
Polyol esters are made from the reaction of long-chain fatty
acids and synthesized alcohols. Similar to phosphate ester-
based oils, polyol ester-based synthetic hydraulic oils boast
impressive lubrication and fire resistance properties.
Polyol ester-based oils have a low pour point and impressive
flow characteristics. They are also biodegradable and eco-
friendly.
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WHAT FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING
HYDRAULIC OILS?
As you can conclude from the hydraulic oil specifications
above, the ingredients and uses of these fluids vary. Their
selection directly impacts the overall performance of the
hydraulic system.
There are a few factors users should consider before
selecting hydraulic oil:
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HYDRAULIC OIL VISCOSITY
That is the single most significant characteristic of hydraulic
oils. Viscosity represents the resistance of these fluids to
temperature changes.
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AGMA Grade – American Gear Manufacturers Association –
Leaders in the standards of gear oils.
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In the UK, ISO VG is used mainly for grading hydraulic oil.
Below is a list of common hydraulic oil ISO grades and a
general guide to their applications:
• ISO 100 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 100 Hydraulic Fluid tends
to be used in industrial machinery with heavy loads.
• ISO 15 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 15 Hydraulic Fluid is
typically used in power steering and hydraulic brake
systems.
• ISO 22 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 22 Hydraulic Fluid is
generally used in airlines for air tools etc.
• ISO 32 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 32 Hydraulic Fluid is ideal
for use in high-powered machine tools.
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• ISO 46 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 46 Hydraulic Fluid is
normally required for industrial plant working under
high-pressure etc.
• ISO 68 Hydraulic Oil – ISO VG 68 Hydraulic Fluid is
designed for use in systems which require a large load-
carrying ability.
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