LET’S TALK ABOUT HYDRAULICS
LET’S TALK ABOUT HYDRAULICS
WHAT IS HYDRAULIC OIL?
Hydraulic oil is a fluid that serves as an energy transfer or power transmission medium, lubricant, and sealant. Also, it is a fluid that cools the equipment and carries contaminants away. If applied optimally, hydraulic oils save energy, reduce machine and component wear, hence, extend maintenance intervals and increase machine life.
THE MOST IMPORTANT PROPERTIES OF HYDRAULIC OIL
Hydraulic oil possesses certain properties that enable it to meet the requirements of hydraulic systems and operating conditions.
HYDRAULIC OIL NEEDS TO BE:
• non-compressible
• stable in terms of viscosity and in
a range of operating and climatic
temperatures (high and low)
• fire-resistant
• non-corrosive
• anti-wearing
• resistant to water contamination
• durable
WHAT MAKES A GOOD HYDRAULIC OIL?
OPTIMUM VISCOSITY
A hydraulic fluid’s resistance to flow is a key characteristic and has a significant effect on how the system performs. If the fluid is too thick, it will flow less easily through the system and may affect operating efficiency. If the fluid is too thin, its sealing properties will be impaired, leading to leaks and worn parts. Valvoline hydraulic oils have the right viscosity to ensure optimum system performance.
THERMALLY STABLE
Over time, anti-wear additives in hydraulic fluids break down naturally, a process that can be accelerated by high temperatures. As a result, sludge and varnish form, which can clog filters, reduce flow, and interrupt system operation. Acids that also form can corrode metals in piston pumps and other system components. To minimize these issues, Valvoline hydraulic oils are thermally stable, last longer, and protect system components.
ANTI-CORROSION AGENTS
Hydraulic systems are vulnerable to water and condensation, which can mix with hydraulic fluid and cause corrosion of components. Water can also react with additives to form compounds that degrade system parts. Valvoline hydraulic oils contain anti-corrosion agents that help protect system components.
FOAM INHIBITORS
No hydraulic system is completely airtight. As a result, air bubbles can form in hydraulic fluid under pressure. When the fluid is depressurized, these bubbles expand to produce foam, which can significantly impair system performance. Valvoline hydraulic oils contain powerful foam inhibitors that reduce the size and volume of air bubbles.
COMPATIBILITY WITH SEALS
Most hydraulic systems incorporate seals made of rubber or other elastomers and contact with hydraulic oils can cause seals to harden, swell or crack, particularly at high temperatures. Valvoline hydraulic oils are compatible with seals under a wide range of conditions. Other important characteristics of a good hydraulic oil are: compressibility, wear resistance, oxidation stability, filterability, demulsibility and hydrolytic stability.
Hydraulic Fluid Categories
| H | Straight mineral oils |
| HL | As H with corrosion and oxidation protection |
| HLP | As HL with wear protection |
| HVLP | As HLP with high viscosity index (VI) |
| HEES | Synthetic Ester Based |
| Key Comment / Product Positioning | ||
|---|---|---|
| Conventional |
HLP – conventional hydraulic oil, formulated with high quality mineral base oils and anti-wear additives to offer solid hydraulic performance in a wide range of applications.
HVLP – conventional hydraulic oil, formulated with high quality mineral base oils and anti-wear additives to offer solid hydraulic performance in a wide range of applications.
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HLP – Formulated to protect against corrosion, foaming and sludge forming when working in a moist environment.
HVLP – Designed to offer superior anti-wear protection and heavy-duty service performance even in extreme climatic conditions.
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| Premium |
ULTRAMAX HLP – Premium hydraulic oil enhanced with a stabilized zinc additive system for systems working under extreme temperature conditions.
ULTRAMAX HVLP – Premium hydraulic oil formulated with consistent viscosity helps to improve system operation over a wide temperature range.
ULTRAMAX PRO HLP – Premium hydraulic oil with official Denison and Bosch Rexroth approval.
ULTRAMAX PRO HVLP – Premium hydraulic oil with official Denison and Bosch Rexroth approval.
ULTRAMAX EXTREME – Superior Synthetic hydraulic oil engineered to withstand the most severe working conditions.
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ULTRAMAX HLP – Provides excellent protection against corrosion, foaming and sludge building.
ULTRAMAX HVLP – Designed to guarantee a very low pour point, excellent oxidation stability and good flow characteristics.
ULTRAMAX PRO HLP – Provides stable viscosity over a long period and extended life service.
ULTRAMAX PRO HVLP – Provides excellent lead-bearing capacity and ability to endure high pressure.
ULTRAMAX EXTREME – Designed to resist arctic conditions and to ensure operation in extreme freezing temperatures up to -40°C.
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