Hydraulic Oils

A Guide to Hydraulic Oils

Hydraulic systems are the muscles of modern machinery, powering everything from a tractor's front-end loader to the arm of a massive excavator. The fluid inside these systems, hydraulic oil, is what makes this work possible. It's much more than just a lubricant; it's a vital fluid designed to transmit power, protect components, and keep equipment running efficiently.

What Does Hydraulic Oil Do?

A high-quality hydraulic fluid performs three critical jobs at once to keep your equipment operational:

• Transmits Power: Its primary function is to act as a medium for energy transfer. When the pump pressurizes the fluid, it moves through the system to actuate cylinders and motors, creating movement and doing work.
• Lubricates and Protects: Hydraulic systems are full of high-precision components like pumps, valves, and pistons. Hydraulic oil creates a protective film over these parts, helping to prevent the metal-to-metal contact that leads to wear and premature failure.
• Cools the System: As the fluid circulates, it absorbs heat from high-pressure areas and carries it away to the reservoir, which acts as a cooler. This helps to regulate the system's operating temperature and prevent overheating.

Understanding Hydraulic Oil Grades (ISO VG)

You will see hydraulic oils graded by an ""ISO VG"" number, such as ISO VG 32, ISO VG 46, or ISO VG 68. This can seem technical, but it's quite simple.

• VG stands for Viscosity Grade. Viscosity is simply a measure of the fluid's thickness or its resistance to flow.
• The Number (32, 46, 68) indicates the thickness. The higher the number, the thicker the fluid. A lower number like VG 32 is thinner and flows more easily, making it suitable for high-speed systems or cold weather operation. A higher number like VG 68 is thicker, making it ideal for systems that operate under higher loads and temperatures.

Benefits of Using a Premium Hydraulic Oil

Choosing the right hydraulic fluid is an investment in your equipment's health and reliability.

• Designed to Protect Against Wear: Our hydraulic oils are formulated with anti-wear (AW) additives that are designed to provide a critical layer of protection for expensive pumps and valves.
• Helps to Prevent Rust and Corrosion: Rust inhibitors are included to protect the system's internal metal surfaces from moisture that can enter the system.
• Contributes to System Efficiency: A quality oil is designed to resist foaming and shed water quickly, which helps to ensure the hydraulic system operates smoothly and efficiently.

Always consult your equipment's owner's manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations.