What is Hydraulic Fluid?
Hydraulic fluid, also known as hydraulic oil, is the lifeblood of hydraulic machinery. It is specially formulated oil that is used to transfer power and transmit forces via pressurized liquid within hydraulic machinery and systems. The key functions of hydraulic fluid include lubricating components to reduce friction and wear, dissipating heat generated by components, acting as a seal for cylinders and providing a cushioning effect.
Types of Hydraulic Fluids
There are different types of hydraulic fluids available with their own unique properties and applications. The most common types include:
Mineral Oil-Based Hydraulic Fluids
Mineral oil Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid are refined from petroleum and are widely used due to their low cost. However, they have poor fire resistance and oxidation stability compared to other options. Mineral oils are suitable for applications where fire hazards are minimal.
Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluids
Fire resistant (FM Approved) fluids are formulated to have advanced fire safety properties. They have additives that increase the flash point and allow the fluid to continue working effectively even when exposed to extreme heat or fire, preventing accidents. Fire resistant fluids are recommended for applications involving industries like mining, oil & gas, marine, forestry and industries using heavy machinery near potential ignition sources.
Water-Glycol Hydraulic Fluids
Water-glycol fluids are water-based and antifreeze is added to prevent freezing at low temperatures. They offer good fire resistance and biodegradability but have lower pressure capabilities and lubricity compared to oil-based fluids. Water-glycol fluids are suitable for mobile construction and agricultural equipment operating in varied climate conditions.
Biodegradable Hydraulic Fluids
Biodegradable hydraulic fluids are plant or synthetic-ester based and environmental friendly. They have excellent lubrication and are becoming popular. However, biodegradable fluids have relatively lower oxidation stability and higher toxicity compared to mineral and synthetic fluids.
Synthetic Hydraulic Fluids
Synthetic fluids like polyalphaolefins (PAO) and diesters offer the best overall performance. They are shear stable, have high flash points and oxidation resistance. However, synthetics are more expensive than mineral oils. They are recommended for high temperature, high pressure applications or where fluid contamination cannot be tolerated.
Why Use Fire Resistant Fluid?
In industries like mining, construction or manufacturing where heavy machinery is operating in hazardous areas near potential ignition sources, a small fire can quickly turn into a major catastrophe. Safety becomes a top concern in such applications. Here are some key reasons why fire resistant hydraulic fluids are recommended:
- Higher flash points - Fire resistant fluids have ignition resistance over 300°C compared to typical mineral oil flash points of 150-200°C. This extra margin of safety is critical near heat sources.
- Film strength - Even when exposed to fire or extreme heat, fire resistant fluids form a protective film around components which shields them from heat damage for a longer time compared to regular fluids.
- Continued lubrication - The additive packages in fire resistant fluids allow them to cling to metal surfaces and continue providing critical lubrication even in a fire, preventing equipment seizures and secondary accidents.
- Smoke suppression - Many fire resistant fluids suppress smoke generation in case of a fire, avoiding toxic smoke inhalation hazards for operators and helping firefighters identify the origin of fire.
- FM Approved - Most fire resistant fluids used in hazardous industries are FM Approved. This approval ensures the fluid meets stringent fire safety testing standards validating its fire resistant performance.
Choosing the Right Fire Resistant Fluid
Within fire resistant fluid types, formulations may vary based on required specifications. Some key factors to consider when selecting the optimal fire resistant fluid include:
- Equipment manufacturer recommendations
- Application operating conditions like temperature ranges, pressures, contamination risks etc.
- Equipment enclosure and availability of air cooling
- Type of machinery - mobile, stationary etc.
- Duty cycle and fluid service life requirements
- Hazardous area classification and regulatory compliance
- Environmental friendliness needed
- Service network and fluid disposal facilities
- Cost effectiveness over the equipment life cycle
With the various fire resistant fluid options available today, careful evaluation and selection ensures critical hydraulic equipment operates safely even under fire hazards. Proper fluid maintenance further extends service life and safety reliability.
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About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
