A Component Manufacturer Considers Hydraulic Oils for Mobile Service

Mobile hydraulic systems traditionally operate under severe conditions in a wide range of climates. The component manufacturer's prime consideration in the selection of hydraulic oils for such service is the successful operation of the hydraulic system. Knowledge of his components and broad experience gained in their utilization emphasizes certain characteristics of oils that will aid the manufacturer in wedding the hardware into a system meeting the design criteria.

Many types of oils, other than those specifically formulated for hydraulic systems, are being used for mobile hydraulic service. Among the more widely used are automotive and diesel engine oils and automotive transmission fluids. The major properties and characteristics of the fluids to be considered are wear protection, viscosity, fluid stability, rust protection, and filterability. These factors will be discussed in reference to their effect on component and system operation. The effects of various types of oils and their compounding are also to be discussed.